BP Shorts: Southside Spotlight

In this sneak preview of this short, spend time with the legendary Dr. Christine Houston as she details the journey of bringing her seminal play, Two- Twenty-Seven, to life, inspired by her own Bronzeville upbringing that would eventually become the classic TV show, 227. From her upbringing on the south side of Chicago, to her work as a CTA employee and part-time student, this work honors her impact from the person who knows it best, Dr. Houston herself. 17 min.

Stuck in a loop regarding his career, financial well-being, and ability to reach life’s milestones, an aspiring screenwriter is forced to confront the realities of choosing his passion over practicalities. A tale as old as time for creative workers, this film ponders the choices we make for ourselves and others. 7 mins.

Exploring a tense conversation between a hardline, unrelenting father and his emotional, young daughter on the way to school. Stuck in a car by themselves, confrontation leads to an open and truthful understanding of each other. 8 mins.

When they interrupt each other’s early morning visits to the cemetery, two men find themselves bonding over the painful experience of being a widower. Starring Glynn Turman and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs of Cooley High, this short packs an emotional punch and showcases the chemistry and talent of this veteran duo. 14 mins.

Featuring a stirring jazz score and centered in the perspective of Black women in Chicago, the realities of ICE’s continued impact on communities across the city, particularly the South Shore, are explored in this experimental work. With a blend of black and white cinematography, contemporary dance, and spoken word, this film is a thoughtful reflection on power and collective action and resilience. 9 mins.