8-30-2023 6:02pm

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON & OSCAR-NOMINATED DIRECTOR SCOTT HAMILTON KENNEDY’S ILLUMINATING DOCUMENTARY SHOT IN THE ARM COMES TO THEATERS THIS FALL

Anita Johnson-Brown Editor

"Shot in the Arm" is a critically acclaimed documentary produced by Black Valley Films. The film is directed by Scott Hamilton Kennedy, who previously directed "The Garden," "Food Evolution," and "Fame High." It is executive produced by Neil deGrasse Tyson, the renowned astrophysicist and author of the bestselling book "Cosmos." The film premiered at the Palm Springs International Film Festival earlier this year and will be released in theaters on November 3, 2023, at the Angelika Film Center in New York City and on November 17 at Laemmle Cinemas in Los Angeles, followed by other North American markets.

The film's subject matter covers vaccine hesitancy, cultural zeitgeists, and the importance of science literacy. The director, Kennedy, initially intended to investigate a global measles epidemic before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. He interviewed top public health officials, anti-vaccine activists, and parents who refused vaccines for their children. After the pandemic hit, he shifted his focus to explore vaccine disinformation and COVID-19's impact on society.
The response to the film has been extraordinary, with many people praising its cathartic and healing message. The film explores the history and deadly consequences of resistance to vaccines, as well as the political divides that make us sick. It encourages people to replace cynicism with healthy curiosity and to bridge the gaps that threaten our society's health and well-being.

Neil deGrasse Tyson believes that the film is a vital step in promoting science literacy, which is crucial to our civilization's survival. He warns that without this knowledge, our society could collapse. "Shot in the Arm" is a parable for our times, inspiring us to take action and reminding us of the importance of empathy, humility, and gratitude.
Overall, "Shot in the Arm" is a powerful and timely documentary that encourages viewers to seek the truth and to have faith in science. It is a much-needed call to our humanity, reminding us that we are all in this together.

About Black Valley Films:

Black Valley Films is the production company responsible for producing THE GARDEN, a film that was nominated for an Academy Award, as well as other noteworthy titles such as FOOD EVOLUTION featured on Hulu, FAME HIGH on Showtime, OT: Our Town which was nominated for a Spirit Award, and their latest production SHOT IN THE ARM. The company is named after the beautiful and enchanting Black Valley located in County Kerry, Ireland, where Scott and his wife Catherine Borek tied the knot and have a vacation home.

By Anita Johnson-Brown

SHOT IN THE ARM Trailer