Higher Ground’s new documentary short ‘The Turnaround’ to debut at Telluride
A heartfelt story of fandom and redemption
The production company Higher Ground, led by Barack and Michelle Obama, is set to unveil its latest documentary short, “The Turnaround”, at the prestigious Telluride Film Festival on September 1. This compelling film, directed by Kyle Thrash and Oscar-winner Ben Proudfoot, delves into the life of Jon McCann, a die-hard Philadelphia Phillies fan whose unwavering support helped spark a remarkable turnaround for the team in 2023.
The making of ‘The Turnaround’
“The Turnaround” is one of three short films featured in Telluride’s main program. Proudfoot, who has previously won Academy Awards for “The Queen of Basketball” and “The Last Repair Shop”, brings his storytelling prowess to this new project. The film is produced by Proudfoot alongside Breakwater Studios’ Nicholas Ruff and Josh Rosenberg, with Dillon M. Hayes handling the editing and David Bolen providing the cinematography. The original score is composed by Ari Balouzian, adding an emotional layer to the narrative.
Higher Ground’s ongoing partnership with Netflix
Since its inception in 2019, Higher Ground has been a beacon of impactful storytelling. The company, which has a multiyear first-look deal with Netflix, continues to produce content that resonates deeply with audiences. This latest documentary is no exception, promising to offer a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, mental health, and community support.
The story behind the ovation
The documentary centers on Jon McCann, a passionate Phillies fan known as “The Philly Captain” on his YouTube channel. McCann, who has faced his own mental health challenges, became a pivotal figure in the Phillies’ 2023 season. After Trea Turner, a high-profile signing for the Phillies, struggled to meet expectations and faced intense criticism from fans, McCann proposed a different approach. Instead of booing Turner, he suggested giving him a standing ovation. This idea went viral, culminating in a 42,000-person ovation that not only uplifted Turner but also changed the course of the team’s season.
A deeper look at Philadelphia’s spirit
Vinnie Malhotra, president of Higher Ground, expressed his admiration for the film, stating, “Having grown up in the Philadelphia area and being a lifelong Phillies fan myself, I am in awe of how brilliantly Kyle and Ben have captured the heart and soul of the city. With such a unique and rarely seen perspective into a story that will go down in baseball history, ‘The Turnaround’ will take you through a range of emotions and delves into the emotional core of mental health of both our beloved players and the legions of fans who rally every day to champion them.”
A universal message of support and resilience
In a joint statement, directors Thrash and Proudfoot emphasized the broader implications of McCann’s story. “Jon’s is an American story for our time. We all have a choice of how we want to approach the world around us and all its challenges. Do you boo? Or do you give all the love you can give? Jon’s answer inspired us to make this film.”
Behind the scenes
The film’s production involved a collaboration with Cookie Jar & A Dream Studios, a DICK’S Sporting Goods company, and Major League Baseball. This partnership underscores the documentary’s authenticity and its deep connection to the world of sports.
Watch the trailer
For those eager to get a glimpse of this inspiring story, you can watch the trailer for The Turnaround.
Final thoughts
“The Turnaround” is more than just a sports documentary; it’s a testament to the power of community, the importance of mental health, and the impact one person can have on an entire city. As it premieres at Telluride, it promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences, reminding us all of the profound difference that empathy and support can make.
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