Join us at the PitchDox Main Event!
In partnership with Heartland International Film Festival, the PitchDox Main Event will take place at Kan-Kan Cinema from 4-5:30pm ET on Saturday, October 18th 2025!
PitchDox, the documentary film competition exclusively for Indiana filmmakers, invites Hoosiers to submit their unfinished documentary projects (at any stage, from concept to post-production) for a chance to win a $10,000 financial award to support the production of their film.
Our selection committee, along with over 2000 virtual votes, have narrowed down the submissions to five Finalists.
During the PitchDox Main Event, the five PitchDox Finalists will present live pitches for their films. Immediately following the pitches, our jury will cast their votes to determine who walks away with the $10,000 grand prize!
In addition to the grand prize, there will be an Audience Choice award, so be sure to attend the event to cast your vote!
This is a FREE event open to the public, but you must register to attend. Registration has not yet opened, but please check this page for updates.
Meet the FINALISTS!
Still Crazy
Directed by Gabriel Barajas
"Still Crazy" is a documentary on Northwest Indiana's pioneer graffiti crew Crazy In Style Artists. Dating back to 1982 when the original members paved the way for the emerging hip hop scene in Indiana and how they created a positive and colorful movement out of the struggling urban city of East Chicago, IN.
Forest for the Trees: The Truth About Wilderness Therapy
Co-Directed by Vince Dixon
Forest for the Trees: The Truth About Wilderness Therapy explores the history, impact, and controversy of the outdoor behavioral health industry. With access to programs in Georgia and Utah, the film investigates success stories, tragedies, and public misconceptions, uncovering the complex forces shaping this powerful, polarizing form of youth intervention.
Beyond Vision
Produced by Kevin Weaver
From Dugger, Indiana, a blind Navy veteran battles personal challenges at home while attempting the Explorers Grand Slam—scaling the world’s highest peaks and crossing the poles to prove that vision isn’t limited to what we see
Barbara Boyd: On Top of the World
Directed by Manòn Voice
Set in Indianapolis during the upheaval of the civil rights era, this documentary explores the groundbreaking career of Barbara Boyd, who became the first African American woman on-air in Indiana in 1969. Blending archival footage, interviews, and personal and community testimony, the film reveals her impact as a pioneering journalist, consumer advocate, and cancer survivor. Boyd’s story highlights both the cost and power of visibility, as she opened doors in a segregated media landscape and left behind a legacy of truth-telling and service.
You Can't See My Strength
Directed by Andrew Coons
When Sarah Coons suffered a traumatic brain injury while skiing in 2008, she didn't realize it would be a lifelong journey of healing. Now, nearly 20 years later, she's taking the next step towards independence...which includes conquering the ski slopes once more.
You Can't See My Strength is a story of resilience and hope in the face of tragedy and of how courage and tenacity can overcome any obstacle. Sarah's story is universal and intimate, galvanizing us all, no matter our battles, to persevere and find our courage.
