Erik Sharpnack

the apple interviews: apple one is a study on what Middle Tennesseans think the American Dream is in 2026. Every interview was conducted the same way. Each person was given an apple and was asked only one question: What is the American Dream? This is only one apple from a larger group. There are more perspectives, more ideas, thoughts, dreams, but this apple felt the most relevant right now.

The path to live a healthy life seemed clear; eat a balanced diet, exercise frequently, and follow the Standard American Diet. Yet obesity and chronic disease have skyrocketed. Fed A Lie examines the correlation between the introduction of seed oils – the most ultra-processed food on the planet – and the rise of obesity and chronic disease.

Unseen follows Jess and Ryan Ronne, a blended family with 8 children, including Lucas, who has profound disabilities requiring total care. Their situation has gotten more and more challenging as Lucas gets older and stronger. With limited resources and support, caregiving takes a toll on their physical and mental health. It’s a common story among parent caregivers: the isolation, uncertainty about the future, lack of options, and a never-ending daily to-do list means the role of caregiver overpowers nearly every other facet of life. Video diaries from diverse caregivers featured in the film illustrate this universality, while interviews with mental health and policy/legal experts provide a broader view on the societal impacts. Through the power of unfiltered, compelling human stories, Unseen cultivates compassion and tangible support for the caregivers in our communities.

From Grain to Glass explores the story of Leiper’s Fork Distillery and how they are preserving the lost art of Tennessee whiskey-making.