Award-Winning Short Film ‘A Year to Life’ Premieres at zion International Film Festival

Tacoma, WA – Through the Glass Productions’ compelling short film, “A Year to life,” directed by Nikki Hevesy, is set to make it’s Pacific Northwest debut at the Zion International Film Festival (ZIFF). The festival,known for showcasing autonomous films centered on themes of redemption,hope,and the human experience,will take place from June 27 to July 3,2025,at the historic Blue Mouse Theater in Tacoma,washington.

“A Year to Life” Screening Details

The live screening of “A Year to Life” is scheduled for Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 4:15 p.m. (PT). The film will also be available for online streaming as part of ZIFF’s virtual film festival from june 27 (7:00 PM) to July 3, 2025 (9:00 PM). You can stream the film online here.

Did You Know? The Zion International Film Festival celebrates independent films that explore themes of redemption, beauty, hope, creativity, and the human experience.

Storyline and Inspiration

“A Year to Life” tells the story of a resourceful Black man who walks a tightrope between despair and optimism. On the anniversary of a young boy’s mother’s death, he makes a decision that will forever alter the boy’s life. Inspired by actual events, the film pays tribute to the “street soldiers” of South Los Angeles, who selflessly dedicate themselves to their communities to reduce violence and disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline.

The film was filmed in Watts and South Los Angeles, capturing the true essence of the communities where these events occurred. According to a 2023 report by the Prison Policy Initiative, formerly incarcerated people face an unemployment rate of over 27%, highlighting the importance of community intervention programs aimed at breaking cycles of incarceration.

Director’s Perspective

Nikki Hevesy, a long-time supporter of Southern California Ceasefire, emphasizes the film’s unique perspective on a familiar narrative, highlighting the work of peacemakers in underserved communities who are making a lasting difference for future generations. Hevesy stated, “this is an extreme story, but it is a story about a savvy man who is a hero in the Black community – an exceptional human being who represents the grassroots interventionists who are working to give back and restore their communities they once wrecked with violence.”

Pro Tip: Supporting independent film festivals like ZIFF helps amplify diverse voices and stories that may not or else be heard.

Actor’s Insight

Lazarus Guidry, the film’s actor, shared, “I know how someone with a tough past can change their life and make a difference.That was important to me because it helped change the narrative of how we see African-American men. The character I play is a male role model, a father figure, someone who cares about the people in his environment.”

Film’s impact and Recognition

“A Year to Life” seeks to spark conversation and raise awareness about juvenile incarceration rates and the disproportionate impact of incarceration on teens from disadvantaged backgrounds. The film premiered internationally at the Bardolino Film Festival in Italy and in the United States at the LA Shorts International film Festival, an Oscar-qualifying event. It has received 17 nominations and 20 awards at festivals in France, Spain, italy, England, NYC, Los Angeles, and other locations, including