The filmmaker behind What It Takes, an addiction-recovery documentary screening free in Upper Arlington on Aug. 20, is the younger brother of UA City Attorney Darren Shulman.
Jeff Shulman, a college professor and filmmaker based in Washington, D.C., revealed the family connection on the city's Won't You Be Our Neighbor podcast episode published Aug. 18. He joined his brother virtually to share stories from growing up together and to preview his visit to Upper Arlington for the screening.
The 80-minute documentary explores substance use disorder through two stories: a West Coast family navigating alcoholism and an innovative jail-based recovery program in Chesterfield County, Virginia. The two narratives intersect through music. It is Jeff Shulman's second film; his first, On the Brink, is available on PBS platforms.
The screening has a direct local tie. Upper Arlington's Mayor's Court runs a Recovery Court that works with residents struggling with addiction, and the court is hosting the event. A panel discussion after the film will feature Jeff Shulman, the city's Recovery Court magistrate, a representative from Hilliard-based Syntero, a behavioral health organization, and Recovery Court participants and their family members.
"I've watched someone I love struggle with addiction. I've felt alone, ashamed, and frustrated," Shulman said in an April 14 press release announcing a national theatrical tour of the film with American Addiction Centers. "This film is about changing that, helping people see they're not alone."
Admission is free.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Aug. 20, with the screening at 6:30 p.m. at the Municipal Services Center, 3600 Tremont Road. Light refreshments will be served, and resource tables from Syntero, the UA Public Library and UA CARES will be available. Reservations are not required but appreciated.
Coming up
- What It Takes screening — Thursday, Aug. 20, 6:30 p.m., Municipal Services Center, 3600 Tremont Road. Free.
- UA Farmers Market — Wednesdays through October, Mallway Park.
