ARTICHOKE
When a former English professor — known for his quick wit and love of language — begins to forget his words, his close relationship with his daughter is put to the ultimate test.
Inspired by a true story, ARTICHOKE is a darkly funny and deeply heartfelt narrative short film that offers an intimate glimpse into the world of Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects over 55 million people worldwide. The film explores love, memory, and the connections that endure even as everything else fades.
NOTE FROM THE SCREENWRITER:
ARTICHOKE is based on my personal experience with my dad — an extraordinary and charismatic man who developed Alzheimer’s and was determined to hold onto his pride and sense of humor despite his illness. The film is a tribute to him and to my mom, his primary caregiver and lifelong love — and to all of the caregivers who fight every day to keep their loved ones close. In addition to playing the film festival circuit and seeking distribution, we plan to partner with Alzheimer’s organizations and caregiver communities to host screenings that blend art and advocacy. My hope is to bring this profound human story to life and spark much-needed conversation and understanding around Alzheimer’s.
AWARDS:
The screenplay for ARTICHOKE won Best Script from the Cannes World Film Festival, Berlin International Screenwriting Festival and New York Independent Cinema Awards. It was awarded honors from the Paris International Short Festival, London Global Film Awards, New York International Women Festival, Arthouse Festival of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles Screenwriting Competition, LA Independent Women Film Awards, Montreal Women Film Festival, Hollywood International Golden Age Festival, Rome International Short Festival and Amsterdam Movie Festival.
CREDITS
Director: Jodie Markell
Screenwriter: Karen Siff Exkorn
Cinematographer: Peter Deming
Executive Producer: Karen Siff Exkorn
Producer: Amy Gossels
Producer: Jennifer Potts
We can accept donations via Zelle (through your bank account) @ fiscal@woodstockfilmfestival.org or by check (made out and sent to Woodstock Film Festival, PO Box 1406, Woodstock, NY 12498) or ACH/wire transfer for any amount. Please clearly note you are donating to ARTICHOKE.
ARTICHOKE is a fiscally sponsored project of The Woodstock Film Festival, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Your generous contribution will support an outreach campaign to help ARTICHOKE reach a wide audience.
Please contact fiscal@woodstockfilmfestival.org for any questions regarding donations.