Three documentaries that were produced with MacArthur support were nominated for Best Documentary Feature in the 2022 Academy Awards. The films explore stories that challenge dominant narratives and reexamine assumptions:

Ascension

Ascension examines aspirations of labor and consumerism in modern China. It was produced with support from grantees Chicken & Egg Pictures, Firelight Media, and the Sundance Institute.

Attica

Attica, tells the story of people who were imprisoned seizing control of part of the Attica Correctional Facility to demand more humane treatment. It was co-directed by MacArthur Fellow and founder of Firelight Media Stanley Nelson.

Writing With Fire

Writing With Fire follows journalists at India’s only women-led news outlet. It was also supported by Chicken & Egg Pictures and the Sundance Institute.