Producers' Forum: The Sight Unseen by Shawn Antoine II

The Sight Unseen by Shawn Antoine II

(USA, 2026, 35 min)

The Sight Unseen is a hybrid film revisiting the miraculous events of 1971 in the Bronx, when Sharon, a local woman, discovered a glowing cross in her apartment window. This extraordinary phenomenon drew crowds from across the community, becoming a moment of collective awe and curiosity. Now, 53 years later, Sharon shares her vivid memories of that time, providing a deeply personal lens on an event that has lingered in the hearts of those who witnessed it.

The film incorporates the writings of Melvin Tapley, a journalist for the Amsterdam News, who documented the event in 1971. Through detailed reenactments of Tapley’s article, The Sight Unseen brings Sharon’s memories to life while building an evocative portrayal of the Bronx during this period. By blending Sharon’s reflections with Tapley’s historical account, the film offers a layered exploration of faith, memory, and the enduring impact of a miraculous moment on a community.

Shawn Antoine II is a documentary and experimental filmmaker whose work centers on memory, identity, and preserving underrepresented Black histories.