Inspire Action

Act Up!

Act Up! is a clearinghouse of resources made available for those wishing to take a deeper dive into ideas, issues, and other interests INSPIRED by watching Encircle Films documentaries and/or participating in the audience panel discussions following film screenings. Click on the movie headings below – they are linked to individual resource pages.
Looking to get involved, be proactive, take action locally or cast a wider net? Take a look at the listings linked to resources below. If there are additional resources you would like to recommend, please do so at info@encirclefilms.org

SEASON 13

2025 / 2026

American Agitators Resource Page Here!

September 18, 2025

Raymond Telles

“American Agitators” tells the story of legendary organizer Fred Ross, who helped interned Japanese-Americans organize for better living conditions, taught Cesar Chavez and Delores Huerta how to organize farmworkers, and was instrumental in getting the first Latino elected to the L.A. City Council since the 1800s.

American Agitators shows how Fred Ross Sr. for decades mobilized communities to challenge segregation, fight for voting rights, and empower labor movements. The film also shows how Fred Ross Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps as an organizer, and introduces organizers of today who continue Ross’s work, tackling issues such as fair wages, workers’ rights, and systemic inequality.

“We are at a crucial moment in history where understanding the power of organizing is more important than ever,” said Telles. Fred Ross Sr.’s story is a testament to the fact that change doesn’t happen overnight—it’s built through persistence, dedication, and the collective strength of everyday people.

Suck It Up Buttercup Resource Page Here!

May 21, 2026 & June 2, 2026

Amy Schrob, Scott Pressler, John Mottern, MaryAnn Wilbur, and Todd Otten

“Suck It Up, Buttercup” is an investigative and deeply human documentary that brings together physicans, nurses, patients, families and frontline leaders to reveal what is really happening inside America’s healthcare system. Through candid interviews and raw on-the-ground stories, the film exposes the failures putting all of us at risk and highlights the system and people who are proving that better is possible.