#ed jahn

The first part of a three part series on social and environmental documentaries began tonight at nw documentary. A relaxed and interactive dialogue between audience and speakers followed presentations by Kate McMahon, Frontline PBS, and Ed Jahn, OPB's Field Guide. Each speaker showed dynamic pieces of documentaries they produced illustrating points on the development of storytelling and the effects documentaries can have on public debate and legislative progress. 

It was encouraging to hear of the governing and policy changes that have manifested in reaction to both speakers' work. Ed Jahn's idea for the film "The Silent Invasion" developed slowly as he noticed the increasing conversation about invading species during other projects.  He found an engaging way to illuminate the problems of these migrating "bugs & weeds."  His documentary engaged over ten percent of the Oregon population.  And without trying to be an activist rally point his advocacy film changed our attitudes in Oregon from the street to the legislative halls. 

Kate McMahon discussed the progression from local events to national consequences with the documentary The Meth Epidemic.  As addiction spread from the west coast to the dance halls of NYC, her film team followed the progression back to it's cause, or "the power."  Giving both sides of the campaign to restrict access to cold medication the documentary allowed the viewer to have their own voice in the debate and come to their own conclusions.