LATEST TOP STORIES

GOOD SIDE OF BAD is a raw and intimate look into what it means to be a family navigating the waters of mental illness. The film dives into humanity’s dark places while illuminating the love, laughter, and light discovered when you reconnect with those closest to you.

The new film Good Side Of Bad can be described as raw and intimate look into the workings of what it means to be a family navigating the waters of mental illness. As world-premiered last week at the 26th Annual Dances With Films, Good Side Of Badstars Lexi Simonsen (as Florence), Tess Harper (as Mary), Jules Bruff (as Sara), Alex Quijano (as Peter) and Myles Grier (as Dennis).

An early promo trailer has debuted for an indie drama titled Good Side of Bad, the latest film from filmmaker Alethea Root. This recently premiered at the 2023 Dances with Film Festival this month, hence the trailer landing now to build up the hype. When a young photographer has a severe mental break, her siblings come together to help her heal. 

While the situation itself is stifling, “The Good Side of Bad” proves refreshing in being able to see everyone’s point of view and it proves to be an ideal opening night selection for the Dances with Films Festival, starting this evening in Los Angeles where a host of independent-minded films both in spirit and production are set to make their bows. 

GOOD SIDE OF BAD takes us on a journey through the tangled world of mental health and unfolds an intriguing narrative. It highlights how navigating the world of the mind can surprisingly cement familial ties. The film offers a compelling story that examines the depths of personal relationships when pitted against mental health and the battles we face.

Good Side of Bad does an excellent job of portraying mental illness realistically. Both the story and performances are raw and emotional. Simonsen stands out and is heartbreaking. She never overplays the disease, always keeping it grounded. She is also never afraid to bring humor to the role, letting out quick quips and one-liners at those around her. Likewise, Bruff is terrific as the glue that holds the family together. She plays a tightly wound woman very delicately. It also reminds one of those trying to care for a loved one while suffering.

The festival will open with the World Premiere of Good Side of Bad, a powerful drama based on the award-winning novel of the same name by Beverly Olevin. Directed by Alethea Root and starring Jules Bruff (Zodiac), Lexi Simonsen (S.W.A.T.), Alex Quijano (High School Musical: The Series), Myles Grier (Lethal Weapon) and Academy Award Nominee Tess Harper (Crimes of the Heart, No Country For Old Men), the film depicts a raw and intimate look into what it means to be a family navigating the waters of mental illness. 

The Short Encounters International Film Festival will be screening "Bourn Kind" from May 11-14, 2023 in Greece. 

The 2022 Tribeca Festival™ today announced its lineup of feature and short narrative, documentary, and animated films. This year’s festival takes place from June 8-19 and spotlights everything from breakout independent shorts to renowned global features.

There is an inspiring short documentary that premiered at Tribeca this week and it included a communal street art mural event at 41 Ave. A. “BOURN KIND, The Tiny Kindness Project,” created by director Rachel Myers, features the work of Black- Jewish artist Bourn Rich. The project came together during the early days of the pandemic.

Filmmaker Cameo Wood has been nominated for a Northern California Area EMMY Award for her work as producer of the project "Real Artists.” This is the latest of many honors Wood has received for the film, which she also wrote and directed.

Cameo Wood won an emerging filmmaker prize as part of the AT&T Film Awards. She recently shared some thoughts with us about participating in the Awards and attending AT&T SHAPE.