FULL SUCCESS STORY
Zach Ingrasci & Chris Temple, the directors of THE UNDOCUMENTED LAWYER, started their promotional efforts with a solid distribution plan for their film about the work of Lizbeth Mateo, an undocumented attorney who represents asylum seekers. The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and the team secured a deal with HBO to distribute the documentary.
However, their ambition for the film went beyond getting it seen — they were determined to use it to drive tangible impact for the immigration rights community. “We measure our success with questions like, ‘Has somebody’s life gotten better? Has Lizbeth been able to help more people?’” said Chris Temple, director of THE UNDOCUMENTED LAWYER.
The team explored multiple platforms for hosting virtual events for their film, and decided to use Show&Tell because it was designed purposefully for independent filmmakers. They were particularly impressed by the sophisticated look and feel of the site as well as the multiple features it combines, including the ability to host the trailer, film, and Q&A in one location. Show&Tell also gives filmmakers the option to solicit donations from viewers, which provided a seamless way for them to support the cause.
“Show&Tell’s virtual screening platform stood out because it was the only one that allowed us to host the trailer, film, and Q&A in one location.”
— Chris Temple, Director
THE UNDOCUMENTED LAWYER team has partnered with notable immigration rights organizations including ILRC, Immigrant Rising, Immigrant Legal Center, and The Latinx House to host screenings for their supporters. They’ve conducted more than 40 events to date, and plan to do 250+ by June.
Using Show&Tell’s Partner Driven Distribution approach has offered THE UNDOCUMENTED LAWYER team an easy way to add value to the existing immigration rights community. After all, says Temple, “Our role as filmmakers is to come in and support the community rather than reshape it.”
