Sundance Film Festival

U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award: Freedom of Expression - Bad Press

Expired January 30, 2023 6:55 AM
Already unlocked? for access
Protected ContentThis content can only be viewed in authorized regions: United States of America, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands (U.S.).

Angel Ellis is just trying to do her job. She’s a reporter for Mvskoke Media in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, and she wants to give her readers access to all the information relevant to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. But that’s not an easy task, given that Angel and her colleagues believe in truth and transparency and aren't afraid to challenge the integrity of some questionable tribal officials. Fast-forward to a confusing whirlwind of an emergency session at the National Council, where the 2015 Free Press Act is repealed, Mvskoke Media's independent editorial board is dissolved, and the newspaper is placed under the direction of the Secretary of the Nation and Commerce. Now the real fight begins.

Rebecca Landsberry-Baker and Joe Peeler tell a nuanced, empowering tale of a modern Native community fighting for transparency and access to information in order to hold their government accountable. Bad Press is an energizing watch — full of humor, humanity, and numerous twists and turns. 

This film offers Audio Description. For in-person screenings, please submit an accommodation request to arrange for an audio description device at your screening time/location. This assists our Accessibility team with ensuring enough devices are available.

  • Year
    2023
  • Runtime
    98 minutes
  • Country
    UNITED STATES
  • Director
    Rebecca Landsberry-Baker