Scott Smith as David in Steve Williams' Blessing

October 17, 7:00 - 8:00pm
City Library, 200 E. 400 So.

Filmmaker Stephen Williams will present three short films which examine the interior life of families: specifically, family issues in need of healing. His themes/subjects include divorce, mental illness, and religious division.

THE CUFFLINK: This short drama portrays the emotional challenges of Joanne, a woman preparing to face her ex-husband at her grandson’s birthday party. The film explores the tension between personal freedom and family obligation. This film won the Gold Hugo at the 2002 Chicago International Film Festival, and has also been featured in numerous other festivals around the country. Length: 10 minutes

GOOD VIBRATIONS: The healing power of sound and vibrations is explored in this short documentary, which features the real life healing story of a 14-year-old girl from Lindon, Utah.
Length: 11 minutes

BLESSING: Bill Dunn, a devout Mormon, has suffered a heart attack. His family and Mormon bishop have gathered to give him a Priesthood blessing. Tensions rise when David, Bill’s gay son, asks to participate in the performance of this ritual.

"Blessing packs a powerful punch and delineates the path that filmmaking about Mormon experience must likely take if it is to eventually appeal to braoder audience. Williams'...touch is both subtle and forceful." Catalyst Magazine, October 2003 issue, p. 94
Length: 16 minutes

Stephen Williams received his MFA in Film Studies from the U of U in 2002. He currently teaches film courses at Salt Lake Community College.