This week’s selections explore belonging, resilience, and the people who help us move forward. From a young woman reconnecting with a former foster parent, to a man rebuilding his life through recovery, to a teenager balancing her own dreams with a family crisis, each story reveals how much we depend on the people willing to show up for us.
Together, they remind us that moving forward rarely happens alone. Sometimes it takes mentorship, sometimes a second chance, and sometimes simply knowing someone will be there when we need them most.
The Rivals of Amziah King
Set in rural Oklahoma, Andrew Patterson’s SXSW favorite follows Kateri as she reconnects with Amziah King, her former foster parent, beekeeper, musician, and deeply rooted member of his community. Their reunion offers the possibility of rebuilding both a relationship and a future together. Mixing Americana, music, humor, and suspense, the film is ultimately a warm exploration of mentorship, chosen family, and finding a place to belong.
Where to Watch (Limited Theatrical)
Union County
Against the backdrop of Ohio’s opioid crisis, Union County follows Cody as he enters a court-mandated recovery program and attempts to rebuild his life. Rather than treating addiction simply as a social issue, the Sundance drama focuses on the difficult, deeply personal work of recovery, and the relationships and community support that make second chances possible.
At its heart is a question that connects all three films this week: when someone is struggling, who is willing to stand beside them?
Where to Watch (Limited Theatrical)
Don’t Say Good Luck
Just as a teenager earns the lead in her high school musical, her mother’s cancer returns, forcing her to navigate the complicated space between pursuing her own dreams and being present for the person she loves. Inspired by screenwriter Laura Hankin’s own experience, Don’t Say Good Luck explores friendship, family, grief, and the guilt that can accompany moments of joy during difficult times.
It’s a poignant reminder that supporting someone we love doesn’t always mean putting our own lives on hold, and that sometimes the people closest to us are the ones who encourage us to keep moving forward.
Where to Watch (Netflix)
Salute Your Shorts Film Fest
I’m honored to serve as a judge for Salute Your Shorts, voted the #1 Film Festival by USA Today and celebrated for discovering exceptional “Films with Aftertaste” bold shorts that stay with you long after the credits. making this a great opportunity for filmmakers with distinctive stories to get their work in front of industry professionals. The festival is offering Cause Cinema subscribers 20% off tickets - with code SALUTEJON.
