An artist presents the magical property he has been building and designing on Little Cranberry Island off the coast of MDI, Maine, for the past 20 years. The structures are a physical manifestation of those in his life. His property regularly serves as a celebratory gathering place for hundreds of locals. Sam conjures a blend of Willy Wonka and Mr. Rogers as he invites the audience along to experience the complicated process of harnessing grief into creation.

about the film

Sam is a self-described Maker. As a documentarian, I wanted to showcase Sam’s marvelous home with the awe of a first-time visitor, in a way that Sam would never himself request.

I have known Sam my entire life as my uncle’s best friend. But I only came into deeper contact with him over the last five years after my uncle died. About his daughter and my uncle, Sam said to me,
“We both have a person for whom the other has lost.”

It is my hope that this film honors Sam's artistry and life philosophy: 
create freely and relentlessly, forever.

Starring Sam Shaw

Directed and Produced by Grace Poppe

Director of Photography Adam Nawrot

Editor Brittany Kaplan

featuring Henry Grandgent

Sound recordist Julia Martin

Score and Sound Design by Nathan Tipton

Line Producer Stef Gordon

Camera Assistant Jenelle Stafford

Production Assistant Chelsea Williams

Color by Away Team