An Oscar-nominated documentary short film, 'The Last Repair Shop,' is set to make its broadcast television debut this weekend. The 40-minute film, directed by Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers, will be aired on Saturday on ABC owned television stations and select affiliates. Viewers can also stream the film on Hulu and Disney+.
'The Last Repair Shop' takes an intriguing look at a unique service provided by the Los Angeles Unified School District since 1959. This service offers free repairs and maintenance for musical instruments to public school students. The documentary showcases one of the last remaining facilities of its kind in the country, situated in a downtown warehouse. The film takes audiences behind the scenes, revealing the inner workings of this establishment.
Co-director Kris Bowers, an acclaimed composer known for scoring films like 'King Richard' and 'The Color Purple,' shares a personal connection with the documentary's main subject, Steve Bagmanyan. Bowers discovered that Bagmanyan was responsible for personally tuning the school pianos on which he grew up playing and learning. Bowers sees the film as an opportunity to express his gratitude to the unsung heroes who provided him and countless others with the gift of music. He acknowledges that his career owes a great deal to individuals like the four repair people featured in the film.
What sets 'The Last Repair Shop' apart is its broadcast push, marking a first for an Oscar-nominated short documentary. The film will air on ABC stations in major cities throughout California, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and Fresno. Furthermore, it will be available in other significant markets across the country, such as Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia, New York, and Raleigh-Durham.
The decision to bring this heartfelt film to a wider audience is resonating with many. Matthew Greenfield and David Greenbaum, presidents of Searchlight Pictures, express their enthusiasm, stating that 'The Last Repair Shop' is a beautiful and moving film that showcases how the gift of music, experienced by both sides of the instruments, can inspire individuals of all ages. They are thrilled that the documentary has the opportunity to connect with audiences nationwide.
With its depiction of the enduring power of music education and the dedication of those who support it, 'The Last Repair Shop' is sure to strike a chord with viewers. Whether on broadcast television or through streaming platforms, this heartwarming documentary promises to leave a lasting impact on audiences, reminding us of the transformative influence of music in our lives.
