Narrative Block

Army, Asian Voices, Black Voices, DEI Stories and Storytellers, Emerging Filmmaker, Family, Friendship, Global War on Terrorism, Healing, LGTBQIA+, Local, Made By or Starring Military or Veterans, Navy, Pacific Islander Voices, PTS, Resilience, Student Film, Vietnam War, Women Voices
85 mins

This collection of narrative shorts explores a range of human emotions and cinematic styles, from horror to period drama. Films include: IN THE MATCHBOX, SHELLSHOCK, The Bet, Silent Waves, DOLDRUMS and Aunt Cindy and The Alchemist. All films were made by or star military or veterans.

Some films include graphic violence, sounds of gunfire and adult language. Viewer discretion advised.

In this program

IN THE MATCHBOX

Directed by Mike Rae Anderson

In rural 1967 Hickory, North Carolina, Uncle Wendell shares a centuries old family secret with his great great nephews.

SHELLSHOCK

Directed by Justin Garza

A decorated combat veteran and Navy Seal returns home only to find himself locked in a new kind of warfare—one fought in the shadows of his own mind.

The Bet

Directed by Nathan Cragun

This harrowing short film captures the stark reality of warfare and the moral weight carried by those on the front lines.

Silent Waves

Directed by Marielene "Deuce" Jones

After being violently attacked by her troubled brother, Ocean must face a tense standoff with her sister over calling the police, leading to a tragic family confrontation.

DOLDRUMS

Directed by Le Chau

A Vietnam War veteran is haunted by memories of his fellow soldiers and the Viet Cong medic who treated his wounds at a great personal cost.

Aunt Cindy and The Alchemist

Directed by Devin Scott

Aunt Cindy and The Alchemist is a short film that revolves around a seemingly ordinary family whose lives take a surprising turn.