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Hindsight Film Festival: A Celebration of Historical Documentaries

Mark your calendars for the inaugural Hindsight Film Festival, scheduled for March 4th to 8th, 2026, in the charming city of Savannah, Georgia. This groundbreaking festival, spearheaded by renowned filmmaker Ken Burns and The Better Angels Society, is set to become America's first major national film festival dedicated exclusively to historical documentaries.

Ken Burns, known for his captivating storytelling and deeply researched documentaries, expressed his enthusiasm for the festival, stating, “The Hindsight Film Festival will showcase films that ignite curiosity about our collective history.” This event aims to connect audiences with the past in a way that is both engaging and enlightening. The festival will feature a diverse lineup including films that link personal narratives to larger historical themes, emphasizing the relevance of history in contemporary society.

The festival will kick-off on Wednesday, March 4th, at 11 AM with a complimentary screening of Behind the Lines, a compelling documentary showcasing American history through the letters of soldiers, narrated by the acclaimed Annette Bening, at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Attendees can expect a tapestry of stories that not only inform but inspire thoughtful dialogue and reflection on America’s past.

Throughout the five days, film lovers and history buffs can look forward to an exciting program, including the much-anticipated premiere of the 2025 Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film finalists, notably American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez, which will have its world premiere at Sundance in 2026, and the runner-up, Diamond Diplomacy. Generously backed by the Library of Congress and The Better Angels Society, this annual prize offers crucial funding to support outstanding documentaries that illuminate facets of American history.

Festival director Pat Longstreth, who was awarded the prestigious 2023 Better Angels Lavine Fellowship for his work on The Day that Shook Georgia, is excited about creating a platform that elevates historical documentaries, pointing out that while the genre has witnessed a growth in creative expressions, it still occupies a small niche in the wider festival sphere.

The festival will feature a total of 15 feature films and 30 short documentaries, showcasing the versatile and innovative storytelling approaches of today’s filmmakers. Notable screenings include Steal This Story, Please! with the acclaimed documentarians Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, along with journalist Amy Goodman of Democracy Now, who will be present to discuss the documentary's critical insights into media and activism.

In a significant blend of education and entertainment, the festival promises to facilitate expert discussions, insightful history tours, and an enriching awards luncheon on Sunday. Attendees will even have the rare opportunity to celebrate the 50th anniversary screening of Harlan County, USA (1976) with the film’s two-time Oscar-winning director Barbara Kopple, followed by a Q&A led by George Dawes Green, the celebrated novelist and NPR’s The Moth founder.

The festival aims not only to unveil stories of the past but also to inspire a new generation of documentary filmmakers. Through innovative programs, The Better Angels Society is dedicated to mentoring young talents aged 14 to 22, providing them with the tools to craft their narratives and fostering critical skills in thinking, communication, civics, and history. This effort signifies a commitment to nurturing the preservation and exploration of American history through documentary filmmaking.

As anticipation builds, the Hindsight Film Festival's official schedule and film guide will be unveiled shortly. Tickets and passes for this historic event can be secured through the festival's official website. Stay updated on the festival's journey by following its social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube.

Prepare for a remarkable experience as we gather in Savannah from March 4-8, 2026, to celebrate the stories that shape our understanding of history and foster a deeper community engagement.

About The Better Angels Society

The Better Angels Society aims to inspire a deep and lifelong appreciation of American history through exceptional documentary filmmaking. Through grant initiatives and partnerships with public media, they support filmmakers dedicated to delivering engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. The Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film is just one way they recognize and reward excellence in historical documentaries, nurturing both emerging and established talents in the industry.