Stories of a Necropolis takes viewers on a captivating journey through Dra Abu el-Naga, a vital archaeological hill in Egypt's history. Serving as the burial site for the kings of the 17th dynasty and the early 18th dynasty, this necropolis holds secrets dating back between 1600 and 1500 BC, before the Valley of the Kings was established. The documentary showcases the dynamic process of Egyptology, highlighting the transformations and reuses of the site over time. Through cutting-edge discoveries, fieldwork and laboratory analysis of ancient artifacts, the film scrutinizes the complex social, political and religious changes that shaped this ancient cemetery. It captures the work of Egyptologists piecing together the puzzle of Egypt's past, balancing thrilling discoveries with scholarly insights to create an engaging and educational narrative. 

Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 10:27 - 11:24 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 56 min

Country: Spain

Language: Spanish

Director: Javier Trueba

Producer(s): Madrid Scientific Films, S.L., RTVE, Javier Trueba, Ana Maria Pelaez Rodroguez

Distributor: Madrid Scientific Films S.L.

 

The Stones Are Speaking tells the story of archaeologist Mike Collins, who risked everything to protect 30 acres of land deep in the heart of Texas. As Collins and his team excavated the Gault Site, they uncovered astonishing artifacts and structures that would rewrite history. What started as an ordinary archaeological project soon revealed evidence of ancient cultures and practices that were previously unknown to the world. The discoveries made on this land not only challenge established historical narratives, but also offer a rare glimpse into a forgotten past. This film chronicles Collins' relentless pursuit to preserve this important site, highlighting his passion, determination and the groundbreaking revelations that would change the way we view history forever. 

Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 2:17 - 3:57 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 99 min

Country: United States

Language: English

Director: Olive Talley

Producer(s): Olive Talley

 

Shadow Catcher: A Photographic Odyssey follows the obsessive 30-year journey of renowned photographer Edward S. Curtis, who dedicated his life to documenting the rapidly vanishing Indigenous tribes of North America. Driven by a deep passion to capture and preserve the traditions, cultures and people of the Native American tribes, Curtis traveled across the American West, capturing over 40,000 photographs and audio recordings. His work, which spanned decades, became a monumental visual record, yet his pursuit was not without controversy. The film explores Curtis’ complex relationship with the Indigenous communities he photographed, his dream of immortalizing their culture, and the ethical challenges surrounding his methods. The film offers an intimate look into Curtis’ obsession, his artistic achievements and the lasting impact of his legacy in both the worlds of photography and Native American history. 

Screening: Friday, May 16th, 7:46 - 8:22 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 35 min

Country: United States

Language: English

Director: Justyn Bell

Producer(s): Justyn Bell

Distributor: Flashten Films

 

In this documentary, we examine the fascinating remnants of an ancient Bronze Age civilization that once thrived on the island of Sardinia. Over 8,000 megalithic structures, known as nuraghi, dot the landscape, revealing the exceptional engineering prowess of the Nuragic Civilization. These mysterious stone towers, whose purpose remains largely unknown, stand as testaments to a people with profound beliefs and influence across the Mediterranean. As archaeologists uncover new findings, this documentary takes viewers on a journey to uncover the secrets of the nuraghi, shedding light on the culture, history and enduring legacy of a civilization that has long been forgotten but continues to captivate the world today. 

Screening: Thursday , May 15th, 7:43-8:36 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 52 min

Country: France

Language: English, French

Director: Thomas Marlier

Producer(s): Gedeon Programmes, ARTE France, INRAP, Stéphane Millière, Juliette Denize

Distributor: Terranoa

 

Secret Lebanon: The Treasures of Byblos explores the rich history of Byblos, one of the oldest royal cities in the world, located on the coast of Lebanon. In antiquity, Byblos was a thriving trade and cultural hub connecting Egypt and Mesopotamia. Although it was once thought to have revealed all its secrets, recent discoveries have unearthed a remarkable and surprising 5,000-year-old necropolis. This documentary uncovers the hidden glories of Byblos, offering new insights into its ancient past and shedding light on its significant role in the ancient world. With the help of newfound texts and archaeological findings, Byblos' mysteries continue to captivate and amaze. 

Screening: Sunday, May 18th, 4:00-4:53 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 52 min

Country: France

Language: French

Director: Philippe Aractingi

Producer(s): Gedeon Programmes, ARTE France, Stéphane Millière

Distributor: Terranoa

 

Sapiens or the Birth of Art challenges long-held beliefs about the origins of art, revealing that human creativity and artistic expression go far beyond what was previously understood. While Europe was once considered the birthplace of art, with iconic sites like Lascaux and Chauvet, recent discoveries have shifted our perspective. Prehistoric art, including sculpture, music and painting, is far older and more sophisticated than we thought. The oldest known paintings, dating back nearly 45,000 years, were discovered not in Europe, but in Indonesia. This documentary explores the origins of art and demonstrates how it has been deeply woven into the fabric of humanity, showing that art is inseparable from what it means to be human. 

Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 4:26 - 5:19 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 52 min

Country: France

Language: French

Director: Pascal Goblot

Producer(s): Céline Nusse, AndanaFilms

Distributor: Zadig Productions & Escalenta, Céline Nusse, Mélanie Gerin

 

Returning Our Ancestors explores the powerful journey of repatriating Aboriginal peoples' ancestors, whose remains were once taken from their sacred burial sites and treated as objects of curiosity by individuals, families and institutions. These ancestors, once respectfully placed in the earth, were removed and stored in metal boxes as specimens for scientific research and display. The 1980s marked a significant turning point, with efforts beginning to return these ancestors to their rightful resting places on their land. However, the journey is far from complete, and many still remain in distant locations. This documentary, created by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council, highlights the healing process and the ongoing work to bring home the ancestors, featuring stories from Victorian Traditional Owners and others involved in this important endeavor. 

Screening: Friday, May 16th, 7:17 - 7:46 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 28 min

Country: Australia

Language: English

Director: Michael Woods

Producer(s): Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council, Jeni McMahon

Distributor: Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council

 

This animated film takes us on a captivating journey through one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Nestled at the base of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii was a flourishing city until its destruction in AD 79 by a catastrophic volcanic eruption. Among its many treasures, the House of the Faun stands out as a symbol of Roman wealth and architectural brilliance. This grand residence offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the ancient Pompeians, reflecting their culture, status and daily activities. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pompeii continues to reveal its secrets, allowing us to uncover the stories of the past and understand the vibrant life that once thrived here before disaster struck. 

Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 1:00- 1:16 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 15 min

Country: Italy

Language: English

Director: Luigi Giannattasio, Maria Grazia Nini

Producer(s): Altair4 Multimedia, Alessandro Furlan, Maria Grazia Nini

Distributor: Altair4 Multimedia

 

The Opening Address explores the profound significance of the Ohén:ton Karihwatéhkwen, or "Thanksgiving Address," a traditional ceremony central to the Mohawk people. This address acknowledges the interconnectedness of all life forces in creation, setting a powerful tone for gatherings by uniting participants in a shared purpose. The film traces the origins of the Akwesasne Freedom School, established in 1979 amidst the Racquette Point stand-off, as a key step toward sovereignty and cultural preservation for the Kanien'kehaka. Focused on passing down the Kanien'keha language and culture, the school stands as a model of resilience against assimilation and oppression. Through this powerful journey, the film highlights the ongoing importance of nurturing traditions, fostering self-determination and ensuring that future generations continue to carry forward the wisdom of their ancestors. 

Screening: Friday, May 16th, 7:06-7:17 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 10 min

Country: United States

Language: Mohawk

Director: Konwanahktotha Alvera Sargent, Jess Lowe Chaverri

Producer(s): John Stokes, Dr. Kathleen Kelly

Distributor: Jess Lowe Chaverri

 

This is the inspiring story of Kliafa, a family-owned soft drinks company founded in 1926 in Trikala, Greece. Built around a vision to "cool and sweeten the world," the company has thrived through a unique blend of creativity, innovation and deep community ties. The film explores how Kliafa's success is rooted not just in business, but in the values of family, friendship and solidarity. Through decades of growth, Kliafa has become a symbol of resilience and togetherness, reflecting the spirit of its founders and their commitment to serving generations with refreshing products. 

Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 11:32 - 12:41 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall

Length: 70 min

Country: Greece

Language: Greek

Director: Vassilis Loules

Producer(s): Kliafa S.A., Vassilis Loules

Distributor: Vassilis Loules & KLIAFAS S.A.