Bright ’76 and Recent Grads to Debut Film at SXSW

The documentary “Best and Most Beautiful Things” will premiere at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March. 

The documentary Best and Most Beautiful Things, executive produced by Kevin Bright ’76, Emerson College Los Angeles Vice President and Founding Director, and directed by Garrett Zevgetis MA ’05, will premiere at this year’s prestigious South by Southwest Film Conference and Festival.

“Working on this documentary gave me the opportunity to combine my passion for the work I do at the Perkins School for the Blind and at Emerson College. It has truly been one of the most satisfying experiences of my career,” said Bright. “Along with my production team of three recent Emerson College graduates, I’m thrilled to bring the film to South by Southwest for everyone to see.”

In addition to Bright and Zevgetis, other alumni involved in the production include Jordan Salvatoriello MFA ’12, cinematographer/producer, and Sarah Ginsburg ’11, cinematographer/additional editor.

Best and Most Beautiful Things is the story of Michelle Smith, a precious young woman who is legally blind and diagnosed with high-functioning autism. With defiant optimism and bold curiosity, Smith discovers connection in a provocative local community and navigates her own path toward independence, love, and self-discovery.

“This story is a celebration of outcasts and I hope it helps to redefine our traditional notions of 'normal.' Emerson encourages this sort of outside-the-box thinking and fosters a community of talented and uniquely spirited individuals,” said Zevgetis. “Best and Most Beautiful Things would not have been made without Emerson College. This film is a testament to team work and Emerson is part of that team.”

Best and Most Beautiful Things will compete in the Documentary Feature Competition against nine other films. The South by Southwest Film Festival runs from March 11-19, 2016.

Read the announcement at Variety.