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Life In My Eyes

LOGLINE

'Life in My Eyes' is a poignant documentary exploring the resilience and day-to-day challenges of individuals living with visual impairments. Through intimate storytelling, the film captures their experiences, hopes, and unique ways of perceiving the world, shedding light on accessibility, inclusion, and the beauty of life beyond sight.

STORY CONCEPT

'Life in My Eyes' is an immersive and empathetic exploration into the lives of individuals who navigate the world with visual impairments. At its core, the film challenges preconceived notions of what it means to live “in darkness” by presenting powerful stories of perseverance, independence, and creativity. Featuring heartfelt interviews, real-life observations, and poetic cinematic visuals, the documentary shines a light on a community often overlooked and misunderstood.

The film follows key subjects who represent a spectrum of experiences—ranging from individuals born without sight to those who lost their vision later in life. Each participant’s story unravels the emotional and practical challenges they face: adapting to unfamiliar environments, overcoming societal stigmas, and achieving personal victories. 'Life in My Eyes' also explores the technology, resources, and support systems that make independence possible, while addressing broader questions about accessibility and inclusion in today’s world.

Audiences are introduced to these protagonists in settings both ordinary and extraordinary. We watch as they navigate cities, engage in art, music, and education, and find ways to celebrate life on their own terms. The narrative balances raw reality with poetic moments of joy, emphasizing that “seeing” the world is not limited to sight alone—it extends to hearing, feeling, and imagining.

The themes explored in 'Life in My Eyes' resonate deeply in our current moment, as issues of inclusivity, equal rights, and technology for accessibility become more urgent. The film highlights the importance of empathy and action in creating a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.

Given its focus on social impact and the transformative nature of its storytelling, 'Life in My Eyes' aligns best with DocLands’ Art of Impact programming strand. The film not only raises awareness about the realities of visual impairment but also inspires audiences to advocate for change, rethink perceptions, and embrace diversity.

With a combination of observational footage, candid interviews, and stunning visuals that evoke how those with visual impairments “see” the world, 'Life in My Eyes' offers an unforgettable and inspiring journey into a community defined not by limitations, but by strength and possibility.

  • Marshall Gibson
    Director
  • Jameelah Houston
    Assistant Director
    Jameelah Houston brings a passion for storytelling and attention to detail to her role as Assistant Director on Life in My Eyes. With a background in independent film production and project management, Jameelah’s collaborative spirit and leadership ensure that each aspect of the film’s vision is brought to life with precision and creativity.
  • Bryce Ray
    Director of Photography
    Bryce Ray’s eye for capturing raw emotion and visual storytelling shines in his work as the Cinematographer for Life in My Eyes. His innovative use of light, texture, and camera movement brings the stories of individuals with visual impairment to the screen with authenticity and depth. Bryce’s ability to create immersive, emotive visuals makes him a standout talent behind the lens.
  • Stephan A. Anderson
    Producer
    Stephen Anderson is the Executive Producer of Life in My Eyes, bringing extensive experience in both the business and creative aspects of production. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in bringing this powerful story to audiences. Stephen is dedicated to producing content that has a meaningful impact, making Life in My Eyes a perfect fit for his values as a producer.
  • Katy Bergholz
    Producer
    Katy Bergholz is an Assistant Professor at Triton College, where she teaches art and digital media, shaping the next generation of artists and storytellers. A talented multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker, Katy shares a long-standing creative relationship with Director Marshall Gibson, both as a classmate and colleague. Her work often explores the intersection of art, community, and social justice, making her an invaluable voice in the creation of Life in My Eyes. Katy’s collaborative spirit and artistic vision help bridge the technical and emotional aspects of the film, ensuring its stories are presented with authenticity and care.
  • Beth Parin
    Producer
    Beth Parin is an accomplished artist and educator, serving as an Assistant Professor of Photography at Governors State University. With a passion for visual storytelling, Beth’s work focuses on themes of identity, perception, and the human experience. Her photography has been exhibited in galleries across the Midwest, blending fine art with documentary sensibilities. Known for her eye for detail and ability to evoke emotion through her images, Beth brings a unique perspective to Life in My Eyes, contributing as a key creative collaborator. Outside the classroom and studio, she mentors young photographers, encouraging them to use the camera as a tool for social change.
  • Cecilia Miranda
    Key Cast
    Cecilia Miranda is a mother and fighter who embodies resilience. Originally from a close-knit immigrant family, Cecilia spent years as a homemaker and caregiver for her children. Her life took a dramatic turn in her 40s when the stress of a difficult divorce triggered a sudden and unexplained loss of vision, leaving her temporarily blind. Faced with overwhelming uncertainty, Cecilia fought to regain her independence while caring for her children. Today, Cecilia’s vision has partially returned, but her perspective on life has been permanently transformed. Her story in Life in My Eyes is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound ways that hardship can reveal inner strength. Cecilia’s soft-spoken nature and unwavering love for her family remind audiences that even in darkness, light and hope can be found.
  • Lakisha Gladney
    Key Cast
    Lakisha Gladney is a radiant, beautiful mother whose joyful spirit shines through life’s challenges. Born with limited vision, Lakisha’s sight allows her to see light and shapes but requires her to rely on support for navigation and daily tasks. Despite these challenges, Lakisha radiates positivity, confidence, and an infectious energy that inspires those around her. A proud mother of two, Lakisha is deeply involved in her community and passionate about advocating for accessibility and inclusion. In Life in My Eyes, she shares her journey of motherhood and independence, giving viewers an intimate look at her life, filled with laughter, love, and determination. Lakisha’s story reminds us that strength is not defined by physical ability but by spirit, perseverance, and the joy of living fully.
  • Ben Noble
    Key Cast
    Ben Noble is a stand-up comedian whose sharp wit and humor light up any room, but his journey hasn’t been without challenges. Diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition in his early teens, Ben faced a turning point in his life and career. Rather than letting vision loss dim his stage presence, Ben channeled his experience into his comedy, turning personal struggles into relatable, laugh-out-loud stories. Hailing from Chicago, Ben uses his platform to bring awareness to vision impairment, performing routines that break down stigma while lifting spirits. His story in the documentary highlights his vulnerability, perseverance, and unapologetic joy. For Ben, comedy isn’t just entertainment—it’s therapy, connection, and advocacy. Through laughter, he shows that life with vision impairment can still be vibrant and full of light.
  • Sherinda Pringle
    Key Cast
    Sherinda Pringle is a dedicated mother, advocate, and state rehabilitation worker specializing in vision impairment services. Born and raised in a small Midwestern town, Sherinda was diagnosed with progressive visual impairment in her early childhood, a challenge that ignited her passion for helping others facing similar journeys. As a mother of two, Sherinda balanced raising her children with earning her certification in rehabilitation counseling, becoming a vital resource for individuals seeking independence after losing their sight. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Sherinda combines personal understanding and professional expertise to support others in adapting to vision loss. Her story in Life in My Eyes reveals her strength, wisdom, and compassion as she navigates both the professional world and her daily life. Sherinda believes that blindness doesn’t define her—her resilience, love for her family, and commitment to uplifting others truly tell her story.
  • Joey 88
    Music Producer
    Joey 88 is a renowned music producer and composer celebrated for his ability to create evocative and textured soundscapes. Known in creative circles as a “music genius,” Joey composed the entire score for Life in My Eyes, bringing the stories to life with his innovative and emotive arrangements. With a career spanning over a decade, Joey has worked across film, television, and independent projects, earning a reputation for his versatility and commitment to storytelling through music. His work on Life in My Eyes reflects a deep understanding of rhythm, mood, and atmosphere, elevating the film’s narrative and emotional impact.
  • G Dot Markee
    Sound Engineer
    G Dot Markee, a multi-talented musical genius, rap artist, and producer, brings a dynamic and deeply personal sound to Life in My Eyes. As the brother of Director Marshall Gibson, Marcus draws on their shared experiences to craft a powerful, soulful score that resonates with the themes of resilience and hope. A rising star in the music industry, Marcus has produced for numerous independent artists, blending elements of hip-hop, R&B, and cinematic orchestration. His contributions to Life in My Eyes showcase his ability to translate emotion into sound, providing the film with a raw and immersive sonic experience.
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Feature, Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 10 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    November 1, 2026
  • Production Budget:
    100,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    4K
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Governors State University
  • Black Harvest Film Festival
    Chicago
    United States
    November 15, 2024
    World Premiere
    Sergio Mims Excellence in Black Filmmaking Award
Director Biography - Marshall Gibson

Marshall Gibson is an adjunct film instructor and recent MFA graduate from Governors State University, where he specialized in Independent Filmmaking. He also holds a BA in Communications, Media Arts, and Theater from Chicago State University. 'Life in My Eyes' marks his debut as a published filmmaker and documentary director. Marshall's work is driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to social justice. His academic background and personal experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the power of film as a tool for change.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

Creative Vision

As the director of 'Life in My Eyes,' my vision is to bring visibility to the unseen—literally and figuratively—by creating an immersive and emotional experience that highlights the realities of individuals living with visual impairment.

Audio & Visual Elements

This documentary will transcend traditional storytelling through a blend of hip-hop and soulful sound design, dynamic animations and illustrations, and carefully curated interviews. These elements will not only enhance the narrative but also allow viewers to experience the world through the perspectives of those with impaired vision.

The choice of hip-hop and soulful sound design reflects the rhythm and emotion embedded in the everyday lives of our subjects. Sound will act as a storyteller itself—layered beats, subtle voices, and music transitions will serve as both a tool for immersion and an extension of the subjects' emotional journeys. I plan to work with sound designers and musicians to ensure that the audio creates a visceral, textured, and resonant experience, highlighting what words alone cannot convey.

Visually, the documentary will incorporate animations and illustrations to bring our subjects' stories to life. These animations will provide "visual breath" where traditional footage may fall short. For example, an animated sequence might illustrate the last moments of a person’s fading sight or a powerful memory vividly held in their minds. By merging live-action interviews with these visuals, the viewer will step into a deeper, more imaginative portrayal of the subjects’ experiences.

Enhancing the Experience of the Viewer

To provide a grounded context, 'Life in My Eyes' will feature an eye doctor as a recurring expert, who will explain the medical and societal challenges of visual impairment. Their perspective will balance the emotional storytelling with scientific insight, bridging viewers’ understanding of the condition.

Ultimately, 'Life in My Eyes' will not simply document visual impairment—it will immerse the audience in its emotional landscapes. Through creative soundscapes, layered storytelling, and rich visual metaphors, I aim to craft a cinematic experience that leaves audiences with empathy, understanding, and inspiration.

The inspiration for 'Life in My Eyes' stems from my personal connection to community-driven stories and my belief in shedding light on underrepresented narratives. As a filmmaker who has grown up immersed in the art of storytelling through film, theater, and media, I have always sought to highlight themes of resilience, humanity, and overcoming adversity. This project was born out of a deep desire to give agency to individuals whose voices are often unheard and unseen.

Why am I the best filmmaker to tell this story?

My experience in directing my award-winning debut short, which received the 'Sergio Mims Prize for Excellence in Black Filmmaking,' has prepared me to tackle sensitive subjects with integrity and care. I understand the responsibility that comes with telling someone else's story. As a filmmaker, my role is to act as a conduit for their lived experiences while ensuring they remain at the center of the narrative.

As a filmmaker of color and recent MFA graduate, I bring a unique lens to this project. My experiences have shown me the power of art to challenge perceptions, create change, and foster connection. I am deeply committed to ensuring that this film respects and elevates its subjects, while sparking broader conversations about accessibility, inclusion, and the ways we view the world—literally and metaphorically.

What is my connection and access to the story?

I have direct access to individuals living with visual impairments through established relationships within local and national advocacy groups. These connections allow for a level of trust and transparency essential to the storytelling process. This trust is built through informed consent, open communication, and participant feedback at every stage—from pre-production to final edits. Before any segment is included in the film, participants will be consulted, ensuring their comfort and approval.

What are my processes of accountability, consent, transparency, and feedback?

Accountability is critical to my process. I intend to involve participants in ongoing conversations about how their stories are portrayed, creating opportunities for collaborative input. Any visual or audio elements used to depict their perspectives, particularly animations or sound design, will be reviewed with subjects to ensure the creative elements align with their experiences.

In addition, I will incorporate a professional eye doctor not only as an expert voice but also to provide insights into ethical storytelling. Their perspective will help ensure that any medical and technical details are accurate and respectful. By consulting both participants and experts, 'Life in My Eyes' will balance personal storytelling with professional integrity.