Political documentary featuring Whiteville to screen in Wilmington
WILMINGTON, NC — This Wednesday, The Deciders: Red, Whiteville, and Blue will have its local premiere at Jengo’s Playhouse in Wilmington. The documentary, filmed in Whiteville, follows an unlikely collaboration between millionaire donors and working-class residents as they confront economic inequality and explore possible solutions.
The film highlights the efforts of the Patriotic Millionaires, a group of affluent activists advocating for economic reform, including higher taxes on the wealthy and raising the minimum wage. The project brought them to Whiteville, a rural town of 5,000, where they engaged with local voters in hopes of sparking a conversation about income inequality.
Sarah Sloan, a producer on the documentary and a representative from the Cucalorus Film Foundation, which is hosting the screening, explained the origins of the film.
“How the film came to be, is with a strange phone call. Someone from a group called The Patriotic Millionaires called the director D.L. Anderson and said, ‘Hey, I’m with this group. We’re hosting a town meeting. Would you like to come? You’re invited to bring your camera,’” Sloan said.
The film follows Whiteville residents as they navigate discussions on income inequality and work together across political lines to address their shared economic concerns.
In addition to the film’s focus on economic reform, The Deciders provides a broader view of how national policies affect small communities. The film aims to promote dialogue and raise awareness of how income disparity impacts everyday life, regardless of political affiliation.
For those unable to attend the premiere, the documentary will be available on Apple TV for 99 cents during Voter Education Week, with a subsequent release on Amazon Prime.
Screening Information:
When: Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Jengo’s Playhouse, 815 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC
Tickets: $10
Click here to purchase tickets and learn more about the film.