Maria Finitzo

5 Girls

Maria Finitzo

Christophe Mulai

For two years, filmmaker Maria Finitzo followed five strong young women between the ages of 13 and 17. Unlike the myriad reports, books and "specials" that focus on young women as passive and powerless, 5 Girls explores the ways these girls discover the resources necessary to successfully navigate the rocky waters of adolescence. It focuses on the positive ways girls learn to adapt to challenge in their lives by understanding and exercising choices, by believing in their strength when others do not and by resisting powerful cultural messages, which urge them to be silent.

In the Game

Maria Finitzo

Through the stories of a Hispanic girls soccer team at Kelly High School in Chicago, IN THE GAME illustrates the enormous challenges facing inner-city girls in their quest for higher education and, most importantly, success in life.

Those Left Behind

Maria Finitzo

Kasey Buckley, Jack Griffo

A family finally comes to terms with the grief over their son's suicide 25 years earlier.

The Dilemma of Desire

Maria Finitzo

The Dilemma of Desire explores the work of four women who are shattering myths and lies that women are being told about their sexual desire and their bodies. Coined by artist Sophia Wallace, “Cliteracy” is the understanding that the clitoris is fundamental to the female orgasm. Through her art, Wallace is changing culture. Dr. Stacey Dutton, a neuroscientist, studies the biology of the clitoris; Dr. Lisa Diamond is dismantling outdated notions about women’s arousal; and Ti Chang, an industrial designer, creates elegant vibrators for women. Providing the embodiment of their work are the real life stories of Umnia, Becca, Jasmine, Sunny, and Coriama.

Mapping Stem Cell Research: Terra Incognita

Maria Finitzo

Dr. Jack Kessler

This documentary follows the journey of neurologist Dr. Jack Kessler, who was inspired to apply stem cell research to find a cure for spinal cord injuries after his daughter Allison was paralyzed in a skiing accident. Exploring the science of modern stem cell research through a personal prism, the film offers a candid look at the bioethical issues and puts a human face to those living with injuries like Allison's.