In this powerful episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with Emmy-winning filmmaker Robin Hamilton for a deep dive into the art of storytelling, social justice, and the impact of documentary filmmaking. Robin shares her journey from journalism to filmmaking, her passion for uncovering untold stories, and the responsibility filmmakers have in shaping conversations about history and justice.

Together, they explore the significance of Fannie Lou Hamer’s legacy, the challenges of tackling difficult histories, and the bravery required to address controversial topics. Robin reflects on how storytelling can be a tool for healing, resistance, and change—especially in today’s turbulent socio-political climate. Whether you’re a filmmaker, history enthusiast, or just love compelling stories, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and motivation to tell stories that truly matter.

Robin's Recommended books:

“Memoir of a Race Traitor” by Mab Segrest. Link: Memoir of a Race Traitor | The New Press

“This Little Light of Mine: the Life of Fannie Lou Hamer” by Kay Mills. Link: https://library.si.edu/donate/adopt-a-book/little-light-mine

DocuView Déjà Vu

Robin:

"Odessa’s Reign", 2021, Short Film, 22 mins, Watch trailer on  Around Robin Production Company IMDB Link: Odessa's Reign (2021) - IMDb

“13th” , 2016, 100mins, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link: 13th (2016) - IMDb

Timecodes:

⏳ 01:00 – Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking & Current Events

🎥 03:58 – Meet Robin Hamilton: A Filmmaker’s Journey

📖 06:48 – The Impact of Fannie Lou Hamer’s Story

📰 10:10 – From Journalism to Documentary: A Bold Leap

🎬 13:00 – The Evolution of a Filmmaker’s Style

🛤 15:58 – Tackling Difficult Histories Through Film

🗣 19:03 – The Power of Storytelling in Today’s World

🔎 21:15 – Historical Rhetoric & Its Modern Echoes

💡 23:11 – The Bravery Needed in Storytelling & Journalism

🚧 25:26 – Facing Resistance & Pushing Forward

✊ 27:22 – Drawing Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders

🔥 29:49 – Why Controversial Stories Must Be Told

⚖️ 31:31 – Understanding the Lasting Impacts of Historical Injustices

💬 33:28 – Conversations That Lead to Healing & Change

👁 35:38 – Acknowledging Personal Bias & Responsibility

🎞 38:04 – DocuView Déjà Vu & Closing Thoughts