Beverly Hills Film Festival - The Bee Keeper
35 years ago, “Doc” was a cripple – that is until he tried bee sting therapy (Apitherapy). Since then, the 97 year-old Rhode Island native has lived an active and adventurous life – opening his home daily to treat and connect with a host of characters, lifelong friends and family. This poetic portraiture spends a day in the life with Doc. It explores the intimate journey of a bee keeper.
Interview with Director Briana Gallo
Why did you make your film?
I made the film because I wanted to share Doc’s story. I fell in love with an older gentleman that dedicated his life to helping others. He recovered from crippling rheumatoid arthritis 35 years ago using bee sting therapy (apitherapy). Since then, the current 99 year-old Rhode Island native has lived an active and adventurous life. He opens his home three days a week to treat friends and family.
Why should I watch this film?
While watching this film you learn about a man who never lets a minute go by without celebrating life. Ultimately, this is not a story of bees - it’s a story of hope. Bees gave Doc a second chance. He’s now dedicated his life to others. His life is an inspiration. We hope people watch this film and realize that getting old is okay.
How do personal and universal themes work in your theme?
It’s very rare that people sit around the kitchen table and talk anymore. People arrive in Doc’s kitchen with ailments and a bit of apprehension of being stung by a bee. There is a sense of warmth when you step into his kitchen. Doc creates a strong relationship every person that sits around his kitchen table. He is truly selfless.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
Tears. Laughter. People crave more of Doc’s story.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
No. I am happy to see my sentiments and affection for Doc reflected in those that have watched the film.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I am a photographer and a first-time filmmaker that loves to tell stories about personal relationships that inspire others. This film exposed a lot about me and my attachment to Doc. The idea of combining fine art with cinema is appealing to me because the imagery tells a story. I want to continue sharing stories about people that have touched my heart.
Who do you need to come on board?
As a first-time filmmaker, I am looking for a like-minded people interested in expanding this portraiture. There are many other stories that have to be told.
What is the type of impact or reception you would like this film to have?
There is a lesson to be learned from Doc, who lives life to the fullest with simplicity and passion. The film shows that health and relationships can be found in the things least expected.
What is a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a question about the film?
Does apitherapy work? Through the experiences with Doc, we can see that this practice can transform lives.
What are the key creatives you are developing or working on now?
I am working on other stories about strong females, like Basan in Nepal, one of the last female Sherpa porters in the Khumbu valley or Fitsum, a social entrepreneur in a male-dominated Ethiopian culture. I would love to be able to share these two stories among many others.
Interview: April 2017
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We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
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THE BEE KEEPER (2016)(TRT 12min. 50sec)
35 years ago, “Doc” was a cripple – that is until he tried bee sting therapy (Apitherapy). Since then, the 97 year-old Rhode Island native has lived an active and adventurous life – opening his home daily to treat and connect with a host of characters, lifelong friends and family. This poetic portraiture spends a day in the life with Doc. It explores the intimate journey of a bee keeper.
Briana Gallo is a Fine Art Photographer based in La Jolla, CA. As a first time film maker Briana played the role of director, producer and writer. Additionally, she worked with editor Chico Colvard. She uses the power of both photography and film to inspire hope and understanding while connecting people around the world as well as in local communities. Throughout her work, she captures emotion that pulls viewers out of their comfort zone. These mediums provide viewers with a new lens to provoke questions and broaden awareness.
www.facebook.com/thebeekeepermovie
www.facebook.com/courageispower.com
Instagram: @gallobriana
website: www.brianagallo.com
email: photography@brianagallo.com