Defending Freedom - The Arthur D. Shores Story (Full Length Documentary)

Produced by Jacksonville State University for Alabama Public Television, "Defending Freedom" explores the life of Arthur D. Shores, a trailblazing African-American trial attorney who played a pivotal role in shaping the course of civil rights in the American South. From his early days challenging segregation laws to his courageous defense of individuals targeted for their activism, Shores stood as a beacon of justice during some of the nation's most tumultuous times.
The documentary seamlessly integrates historical footage and photographs sourced from the Shores' family archive and insightful interviews with individuals who shared a close connection with Shores, including key political figures in our community. This collective material provides viewers with a deeply immersive experience, allowing them to witness the challenges and triumphs that defined Arthur D. Shores' life.
The film captures Arthur D. Shores' dedication in the courtroom, tirelessly combating discrimination and injustice, and notably showcases moments, like the bombing of his residence, where he placed both himself and his family in considerable personal peril-an embodiment of Shores' courage and the profound personal sacrifices made in his relentless pursuit of justice.
"Defending Freedom" not only pays homage to Shores' legal prowess but also explores the personal sacrifices he made for the cause of justice. His resilience and commitment to the principles of equality serve as an inspiration for generations to come.
JSU’s Longleaf Studio is an experiential learning unit housed in the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences at Jacksonville State University that provides film and communication students with hands-on learning opportunities to work on real-world projects with professional filmmakers. JSU had 11 students that participated in the production of Defending Freedom, including: Riley Abston, Nicolas Guimaraes Vieira, Adrian Langston, Noah Lockette, Noah McCord, Samuel Musgrove, Laney O'Neal, Leslie Pearce, Esther Shull, Benjamin Willis, and Daylan Wright. Longleaf Studios partnered with Illuminate Films to produce the film and provide experiential learning opportunities for our students,
Quote from the Director of Longleaf Studios, Seth Johnson: "Producing 'Defending Freedom,' our seventh documentary for Alabama Public Television, has been a profound experience, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Alabama Public Television for the invaluable opportunities it has created for our students. A special acknowledgment goes to the influential politicians and community officials who generously shared their time, emphasizing the significance of Mr. Shores to Alabama's enduring legacy."
Jacksonville State University Press Release: www.jsu.edu/ne...