Claire McGirr

In 2016, New York-based executive producer Claire McGirr partnered with the Minneapolis non-profit Motionpoems on their eighth season, an annual film series that brings together directors and poets to celebrate new forms of storytelling. McGirr sought out a unifying subject that would resonate with voices from around the world. Following the presidential election, America witnessed the largest combined protest in its history, the atmosphere in the United States had shifted dramatically and a rise in global nationalism was unmistakable.

After participating in the 2017 Women’s March, McGirr knew the series needed to be as provocative as it was cathartic for its creators. She sourced filmmakers from America, Australia, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and the United Kingdom to bring to life American poetry selected by Motionpoems and literary group Write Our Democracy. The result is an international perspective on change, resistance, protest and growth. A unified, collective dialogue irrespective of circumstance.

Recognition

Since launching Dear Mr. President in 2017, the films have screened variously at the Aesthetica Film Festival, to the BFI London Film Festival, Cannes Films Festival and Raindance among others. They have won multiple accolades including Best Cinematography, Best Debut Short at the Galway Film Fleadh and Shortlisted for the Young Director’s Award at Cannes. These films have also featured in numerous publications such as AfroPunk, Boooooom, Director’s Notes, NOWNESS, Shoot Online, Shots and Vimeo’s Staff Pick.