List(e)n

It is no secret that we live in extremely polarizing times, with hot-button political issues weaving their way into the fabric of every aspect of our lives and culture. Amidst all the noise, we all want to make sure our voice is heard. But how often do we stop to listen? List(e)n invites people with opposing viewpoints on some of our most divisive issues – guns, abortion and immigration — to listen to each other. The documentary features participants whose personal lives deeply intertwine with the topics, including one of the survivors of the Parkland, FL school shooting. As the exchanges unfold, and the participants take the time to get to know each other, moments of unexpected emotional connection and understanding arise. Juliana Tafur's powerful film is wise to the ways we sometimes hate that which we don't understand. It is also brave enough to ask: Can we at least try to understand those with whom we most disagree? (Miami Film Festival)