Production Stills

Inspired by a dark and critically important period in the recent history of the United States, between October 2020 and April 2021, the “Something in the Water” documentary is created in the spirit of keeping democracy along the  search for common ground. 

It’s the story of America told through the eyes of a diverse group of people from across the United States who are struggling to understand and rationalize the ideologies that divide them as they live through a contentious Presidential election, the reckoning of  historical truths, nationwide social unrest, and the unfathomable loss of so many lives. 

And yet, despite the obstacles they are confronted with, their collective testimonies paint a mosaic of a country that is as rich and varied as its people, bringing hope to the promise of America and to help heal the wounds of a fractured nation.

The "Something in the Water" documentary is the third  Wachter/Stillman collaboration.

Joseph C. Stillman (Producer/Director) is an award-winning filmmaker, dedicated to human rights and social justice issues. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, his recent works include the internationally acclaimed feature documentary, "Citizen Clark... A Life of Principle," the story of former U.S. Attorney General and Human Rights activist, Ramsey Clark and "From Mills River to Babylon and Back... The Jimmy Massey Story." As an Emmy winning, Oscar nominated and Best Documentary Film Producer and Director, Stillman's projects have been seen around the globe. 

Jeri Wachter (Producer/Director) is a Georgia born, NYC and Southern raised filmmaker, consultant, and public speaker, producing films and events to illuminate and inspire action toward positive social change.  Other works-in-progress  include "Rural Matters: Poverty in the Other America".  Previously, she spent more than two decades in scientific and technical publishing, as a leading advocate to advance DEI in the workplace, and for twenty years, as cofounder/chair of William Andrew Publishing, a publisher of major works in fields such as materials, energy, and ecology.

Americans across our land have many concerns and depending of course on what their individual and family situations and connection to history are, their viewpoints represent tremendous diversity, which is as we found, the great American experience.  As filmmakers, we take this responsibility seriously and are confident that our film offers an opportunity to learn from others what we don’t often get a chance to see.

The film sparks dialogue, a sense of respectful curiosity, and an atmosphere of caring deeply about our fellow Americans; thus, engaging viewers to begin a process to bridge misunderstandings about each other, and around challenging and critical issues in our country.

This work is intended for broad audiences, ages 14-103, in high schools, colleges and universities, as well as individuals at all levels in businesses and organizations, legislative policy makers, and where communities across our land can screen and hold forums.

Keep an eye out for news about upcoming film festivals near you in 2022. Send us an email to be sure you're on our list for announcements. We'd love to hear from you.