Refuge

‘Essential viewing during a period of such extreme cultural divide in our country.‘

‘IF YOU’VE EVER DESPAIRED THAT AMERICA IS TOO DIVIDED TO COME TOGETHER AGAIN, YOU’RE ABOUT TO EXPERIENCE A GLIMMER OF HOPE... REFUGE SHOULD BE REQUIRED VIEWING BY EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THE COUNTRY.‘

‘Set in the most culturally diverse square mile in America, a new documentary, “Refuge,” shines a spotlight on the community of Clarkston, twenty minutes outside Atlanta. Filmmakers Erin Bernhardt and Din Blankenship first set out to show some of Clarkston’s unsung heroes, humble residents whose warmth and inclusivity served as a reminder of a prejudiced nation’s better angels. But an unexpected and extraordinary story of unlikely friendship and redemption unfolded before their camera’s eye.‘

‘Watching “Refuge” is a much-needed piece of uplift in this divisive time.‘

‘Bernhardt and Blankenship wanted their film to reflect the diverse community they were spotlighting, both on screen and off. The film’s crew is made up of mostly women and minorities and includes several refugees who have settled in Clarkston. They set up an apprenticeship program for local refugees interested in filmmaking and equipped them with skills that will set them up for other jobs in the Atlanta film industry. “Erin and Din are really walking the walk,” Katie Couric said. “It’s one thing to tell the stories of these extraordinary people, but they are also giving opportunity to underrepresented people who have not had enough of a seat at the table in documentary filmmaking.”‘

‘The Torah tells the Jewish people at least 36 times that they are to welcome and care for the stranger. “Refuge” is 75 compelling minutes that should resonate with the Jewish community, particularly at a time of proliferating expressions of hate.‘

‘Directed and produced by award winners Erin Bernhardt and Din Blankenship, Refuge is set in the most diverse square mile in America — Clarkston, Georgia — and follows a Syrian Kurd, a former Klansman, and a town of refugees who seek belonging in a country that blames them for its problems. Swimming against the current of an increasingly polarized and isolated America, each must decide whether they will risk knowing and being known by those who oppose them. Ultimately, Refuge uncovers what is possible when we leave the security of our tribes, and what is at stake for our country if we don’t.‘

‘The best thing about this film is that it doesn’t reduce either man to a stereotype — or even to a pat story of redemption. Bernhardt and Blankenship do what they want the people who watch the movie to do: They observe, they listen and they stay open to accepting people, no matter who they are.‘

‘A Powerful and Captivating Film... Refuge shines a light on the false ideologies of hate, and reveals where authentic and lasting refuge is found. There is no doubt that this captivating tale will leave an impact with the viewer.‘