Jonathan Skurnik’s six broadcast films

Producing & Directing

Something’s Moving explores the reality and legacy of American Indian boarding schools through the stories of four school survivors, and follows their courageous attempts at healing themselves, their families and their communities from this little-known and seminal 20th century trauma. Producer. In production. Watch the trailer.

The Elevator Operator: Eugene Sheiman, a Ukrainian immigrant and former journalist, runs a manual elevator in a New York City office building. Now that he’s an American citizen, The Elevator Operator reveals his big dream. PBS & European Broadcasts, MOMA screening, Best Doc at Urban TV film festival in Madrid. Producer, Director and Camera. Learn more & purchase or watch a clip.

Spit It Out, tells the story of stutterer Jeff Shames’ quest for self-acceptance. With the help of his wife, a comedienne and recovering alcoholic, along with inspiring people who stutter, Jeff faces the legacy of his father’s abuse and reclaims his life. PBS Broadcast, award-winner at national and internat’l film festivals. Producer, Director & Camera. Learn more & purchase or watch a clip.

A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay, a one hour documentary that follows three men and women through New York City’s Workfare program as they fight for a more just and effective welfare to work system. PBS and European broadcasts, Harry Chapin Media Award winner. Producer, Director and Camera. Learn more & purchase, watch a clip, or stream entire film.

Ice Music, Moon Magic, a one-hour documentary about a mid-winter ice music and art festival in Norway that profiles its visionary founder Terje Isungest, a world-renowned jazz percussionist who makes music with instruments made of ice. Shot in stunning, high definition video. Director. In post production. Watch the trailer.

I’m Just Anneke tells the story of Anneke, a gender non-conforming 12 year old girl who has just started taking a hormone blocker so she can decide if she wants to be a boy, girl or something in between when she grows up. Changemaker award winner at Media That Matters Film Festival, SilverDocs. Watch the trailer.