RI-produced Jewish short film ‘Perpetual’ wins in New Bedford

The short documentary “Perpetual” has been making waves in the film festival circuit, winning awards and touching hearts along the way. Having received Best Voiceover Performance at the New Bedford Film Festival, it was also shown at the 6th Annual Mental Health Suicide Awareness Film Festival in Denver, Colorado, on Sept. 29.

The film, directed by artist and essayist Sally Edelstein, uses her skills as an artist and writer to paint a vivid collage of loss, despair, trauma, but also resilience, determination and hope in the film.

The film is based on her essay, “Finding Solace in an Unlikely Spot,” published in Lilith Magazine. It tells the story of how Edelstein found strength in her Jewish heritage by visiting her family cemetery, and how she was able to reframe her experiences through art and storytelling.

"Describing my lifelong battle with depression, PTSD and suicidal thoughts, I share the solace I found in an unexpected place,” Edelstein said.

Co-produced by Rhode Island resident John Martin, the 12-minute film tells the deeply personal and moving story of a Jewish woman's battle with depression and how she finds solace in an unexpected place - a Jewish cemetery.

Martin, a former columnist for the Providence Journal and current AARP Rhode Island communications director, served as editor for the film.

Martin's previous work on Edelstein's essay-turned-film earned him the Best Editing/Short Documentary award at the Gothamite Film Awards in New York City earlier this year.

Despite the film's success, Edelstein said she remains humble and grateful for the opportunity to share her story.

"I am deeply grateful to be heard… that you heard my voice. And I am grateful to speak for all those who can't, and that I can use my voice for them," she said at the New Bedford Film Festival, where she beat out big names such as actor Liam Neeson for the Best Voiceover award.

Through "Perpetual," Edelstein hopes to shed light on the often-misunderstood topic of mental health, particularly in these difficult times. She hopes that by watching the film, people will have a deeper understanding of depression and the importance of taking care of one's mental health.

As the film continues to make its mark in the film industry, it is a reminder of the power of heritage, speaking up and finding solace in unexpected places.

SETH CHITWOOD (www.sethchitwood.com), of Barrington, is a features reporter for The Standard-Times, in New Bedford. He is also the creative director of the award-winning Angelwood Pictures production company.