One of the most rewarding moments in making a documentary is seeing your work connect with someone outside the production team. We’re honored to share that Beneath the Ashes: The Past Reimagined has received its first published review.
The review comes from RabbleRouse News, following our World Premiere at Dances With Films Los Angeles.
Reviewer Gwenn Morreale describes the film as:
“An incredibly compelling, heartbreaking, must-see film about resiliency, community, diversity, catastrophe, and the racism that permeates our city and our nation.”
Reading those words was deeply meaningful to everyone involved in bringing this story to life.
From the beginning, our goal was never simply to document the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. We wanted to preserve the voices, history, and resilience of Altadena’s historic Black community while exploring the decades of history that made this neighborhood so unique. The film follows residents, business owners, faith leaders, artists, and community advocates as they confront unimaginable loss while fighting to protect a legacy generations in the making.
We especially appreciate that the review recognizes not only the devastation left behind, but also the hope that continues to emerge through the people of Altadena themselves. As the review notes, the film ultimately reminds us that while homes may have been lost, the community’s roots remain strong.
The review also offered thoughtful observations about areas where viewers may want to see even more exploration, including additional perspectives on recovery efforts and opportunities for audiences to get involved. We genuinely appreciate that level of engagement. Documentary filmmaking is about starting conversations, and we’re grateful when critics approach the work with both empathy and curiosity.
To everyone who has supported this film so far, from our participants who trusted us with their stories to those who attended our world premiere, thank you. This first review is an encouraging milestone, but it’s only the beginning of the journey.
We’re excited to continue sharing Beneath the Ashes with audiences through upcoming screenings and festivals, and we hope the conversations surrounding Altadena’s future continue long after the credits roll.
If you’d like to read the full review, you can find it here:
Film Review: World Premiere of BENEATH THE ASHES – RabbleRouse News
Thank you for following this journey with us.
