‘Rural by Choice’ docuseries selected for Twin Cities Film Festival
The ‘Rural by Choice’ docuseries created by Otter Tail Lakes Country Association, Kvidt Creative, and Cory Hepola will be showcased at the Twin Cities Film Festival (TCFF). TCFF announced its complete lineup of more than 100 films that will run October 21-30.
TCFF is a nationally recognized non-profit arts organization that hosts this annual event to celebrate independent storytelling through film arts. The 2021 program marks the 12th anniversary and will showcase Minnesota-connected productions, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) voices, female filmmakers, and a “Changemaker Series” spotlight on mental wellness projects.
‘Rural by Choice’ is a 7-part video series that examines why people choose to live in rural places through the eyes of WCCO Radio host and Perham, MN native, Cory Hepola. Each episode is its own unique story, centered around topics that are woven into the fabric of rural living—farming and agriculture, fishing and outdoor recreation, local food and brews, arts and culture, supportive schools, and a sense of community. While fun and entertaining, ‘Rural by Choice’ does not shy away from more thoughtful conversations about diversity, the ‘rural vs. urban divide,’ and perceptions of life in rural places.
Writer, co-producer, and host of the series, Cory Hepola, shared his enthusiasm for ‘Rural by Choice’ being showcased at the 2021 festival. “We’re honored that ‘Rural by Choice’ has been selected into the prestigious Twin Cities Film Festival where more people, from all around the world, will get the opportunity to see the beauty of Otter Tail County, Minnesota. Our goal from the start was to authentically explore unique aspects of rural living while challenging some of the stereotypes that might exist, and what we found is an inspirational story that has positively impacted many people. We’re humbled by the response and thankful to be showcased at Twin Cities Film Festival.”
Directors of the series, Micah and Jenna Kvidt of Kvidt Creative, were also excited to have their work featured among top-notch artists at the festival. “This whole experience has been an incredible ride. From being able to work on a project that focuses on the area where we grew up, and to then have it amongst so many other great films at the Twin Cities Film Festival is just amazing. We are really proud of this one.”
Co-producer Erik Osberg credits Hepola and Kvidt Creative for the polished finished product. “We didn’t really know what we were going to end up with when we started this project. We just knew we wanted to share our story. Thanks to Cory, Micah & Jenna’s professionalism and passion, we wound up with something we can all be proud of.” Osberg adds that he hopes this video series will expose people to the kind of lifestyle they can have if they choose to live in a place like Otter Tail County, MN. “For years, there has been a negative narrative about living and working in rural areas. Our intent was to shine a positive light on all the good things the area has to offer. Especially for folks looking for a place to raise a family.”
Rural by Choice will show in person at the Showplace ICON Theatre and online October 24 at 4 pm. Tickets to the festival are available at www.twincitiesfilmfest.org.
