Screenings

"The stories we read are usually the stories of failure. Telling stories of success – of people who have shown that they are valuable – those are important. Stories are really how we learn.”

"The film is very moving and compelling, and I don't think anyone who watched it was left unmoved. Ed is truly a remarkable person. I was struck by how he talked about his parents; the pride and sense of self they instilled in him must have made all the difference in how he has been able to persevere and thrive."

"The film is powerful and important…. The characters and their stories just grabbed your heart in an honest way. I’m so moved by this story - I’m certain it will have a considerable impact."

"The film is very powerful. A special thanks to Ed for telling your story and raising up your experiences and how we really need to reform the system… This is what the Criminal Justice Reform Caucus is all about: raising up the lives of returning citizens and formerly incarcerated people and advocating for change."

"I’m very much impressed with the movie. There is a very strong analogy between Ed Jordan and the survivors of the concentration camps. The lack of vengeance and the lack of attacking anybody -- but trying to improve yourself and working so hard… It drives the point that nothing comes by itself. You have to earn it, you have to work on it, and you have to put yourself forward to accomplish this. I think you did a tremendous job showing that this is the way you get someplace."

"Holding Up the Sky is a powerful film about courage, hope, and humanity. Nesson has built such a deep trust and friendship with Ed Jordan that Ed is able to passionately share his story – and bring hope for those behind and beyond bars. Bob’s gifted talent as a filmmaker and storyteller is always focused on making the world around us more equitable and safe. His films have the power to move the audience toward action."

“It’s an inspiring story and Ed is a great subject. So many of his comments really moved me—the poetry with which he explains how 'each of us is like a piece of metal… and in order for us to be whole, we need another piece. And we need to fuse ourselves to that other piece.'”

“What a great story and what an amazing person Ed is (Jimmy, too). And how crushing and heartbreaking that we have such a justice system for our fellow humans. I can barely grasp being able to stand upright after such tribulations and here they both are, helping others do it too. Narrative sequence is really moving, I’m looking forward to hearing how you pulled it all together and how you met this guy in the first place. We need more films that spread inspiration.”

“It’s a very powerful story… it speaks to Ed’s dedication and recognition of the work as something possibly bigger than himself.  He’s helping people build and rebuild lives, and in doing so, building a supportive community.”

“To my delight I found Holding Up The Sky to be a masterfully executed examination of the lives of two men that captured my imagination and filled me with both hope and inspiration. It is a film that suggests great possibilities for so many who believe the future is impossible."