The Documentary
Collage of a City will be a series of documentaries that came about while conducting research for the feature film The Merrimack.
Collage of a City will be a three-part documentary series featuring interviews & multiple hours of B-Roll footage showcasing various locations and events throughout the city of Lowell, MA.
Writer/Director Jonathan C. Stevens has conducted on-camera interviews with over 300 individuals, capturing their thoughts on Lowell. Interviewees include former Governor of Massachusetts and Presidential candidate Michael Dukakis, internationally known boxers and subjects of the Oscar winning film The Fighter Micky Ward and Dick Eklund, and Congresswoman Niki Tsongas.
Interviews also feature business owners, people living on the streets, artists, musicians, gang members, those born and raised in Lowell, as well as those who have immigrated here. Representing all generations, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
From the streets to City Hall and everywhere in between, this project is a true city-wide collaboration featuring individuals from all over the globe.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
“I believe that Mr. Stevens’ project will develop and strengthen community belonging and pride.” – State Senator, City Councilor & Former Mayor Edward J. Kennedy
“Thank you for doing this...I was very excited to hear, wow, someone is making a film about this great city of ours.” – Rady Mom, Massachusetts State Representative
“There’s no other city like the city of Lowell. I believe where Lowell is going, is going to be, if not already there, one of the most exciting cities in the state...I’m blessed to be in the city of Lowell.” – Sal Lupoli, CEO, Lupoli Companies
“We have one of those places that is not only unique, but in my opinion is mystical...I’ve seen a lot of people and I’ve been to a lot of places, and the most unique place I’ve ever visited or in which I’ve lived is Lowell, Mass.” – Sam Poulton, Owner, WCAP Radio
“I know that once you’re finished with your project, it will be recognized beyond the borders of Lowell.” – Roger Brunelle, Lowell Celebrates Kerouac!
“You’re doing the community service that more people should be invested in.” – Mehmed Ali, Ph.D, formerly of UMass Lowell
“I think the city should just sign over its whole marketing budget for the year to you in return for that (promotional trailer) that you did.” – Richard P. Howe, Jr., Middlesex North Register of Deeds, Founder of Lowell Walks
“I thought, wow, I need to support that young man in this vision.” – Lura Smith, Former Assistant to the President, Middlesex Community College
“The city of Lowell is your partner in what you’re doing...” – Former City Councilor Corey Belanger
“Your story & sense of place will enchant us all! SO marvelous! Looking forward to this! Debuting this film in Lowell will be UNBELIEVABLE! Red carpet worthy” – Suzzanne Cromwell, Founder, Lowell Film Collaborative
“This is what should be being done. You’re doing the good work. I’m glad somebody’s doing it because it needs to be put on film, it’s like a miracle.” – Tony Sampas, University Archivist and Metadata Specialist, UMass Lowell
“You got me down there. I’m in the Screen Actors Guild, you got my number. I want to be in this movie.” – Jack Neary, Playwright, Director, Actor
“You have done a huge service for Lowell.” – Sarah Hayden, Executive Director, PortMedia (Newburyport, MA Public Access Television)
Below are photos from Collage of a City...
This program is supported in part by a grant from the Lowell Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.