about the film
and director’s statement
Dream Touch Believe is a timeless, award-winning biographical documentary about a man who succeeded in pursuing the impossible. This feature length film explores the unbelievable life and inspiring sculpture of New Mexican artist Michael Naranjo.
As a boy growing up on the Santa Clara Pueblo Indigenous reservation, Naranjo dreamt of becoming an artist – just like many of his ancestors. But at 23-years old Naranjo was drafted to the Vietnam War. During combat, a grenade destroyed his eyes and right hand. In the days and years that followed, Naranjo fought past critics and social stereotypes to harness the life and career of his dreams. From darkness, he resurrected his inner vision and is now a world recognized sculptor. The shadow-like bronzes he creates are treasured for their haunting beauty and are displayed prominently in homes, museums, and grand institutions like the White House and Vatican. But it’s Naranjo’s life story that continues to spark hope within people of all walks of life.
Director Jenna Naranjo Winters weaves her father Michael’s soothing voice with emotional interviews, a trove of historical news media and gorgeously composed original footage. Cinematographer Bill Stengel, known for capturing some of New Mexico’s greatest landscapes and artists on film, juxtaposes darkness and light to remind viewers that although Naranjo’s world is one of darkness, the artist tenaciously manages to find hope.
Dream Touch Believe is a film that will inspire audiences of all ages. While this is a story of just one man, a piece of this story lives within all of us. It’s symbolic that all of us can harness resilience and determination, even in uncertain times.
director’s statement
HELLO!
My name is Jenna Naranjo Winters. I’m not just the director of this film, but a lifelong witness. I am very familiar with the power of Michael Naranjo’s narrative because he is my father, and I grew up watching the way people respond to his tenacity, determination and artwork. Whether he is speaking to a classroom of school children or a ballroom of veterans, the reaction is often the same – awe, compassion and a newfound sense of determination. I know deep in my soul it is my duty to share this inspiring story with a larger audience.
While most journalists don’t pursue the adventure of telling stories about their own family, I found myself in a unique position. As my career developed and I became a successful television producer, it became obvious to me that sharing this story on film with a broader audience isn’t just my passion, it is my calling. Now more than ever, our world needs stories that ignite hope. Film might be the best way to continue to unite humanity amidst our differences – and while this is a story of just one man, a piece of this story lives within all of us. It’s symbolic that all of us can harness resilience and determination, even in uncertain times.
My father and I are both members of the Santa Clara Pueblo Indigenous reservation in New Mexico and this is also a story that reflects our people’s pursuit of creativity at all costs. It’s a story about overcoming challenge. And I know it’s a story that will also inspire audiences of all ages and all walks of life.
When I started working on this film nearly 10 years ago. I never thought it would take so much time, patience, love, persistence or perseverance to become a first-time filmmaker. But with every hurdle, I knew there was only one choice – to move forward. And it was worth every sacrifice. Our film is having an incredible festival run. I am humbled every time I sit amongst audiences and hear the reactions around me — laughter, tears, awe — these are the emotions I always hoped this story would draw from viewers. I made this film for many reasons, but one stands out - I want audiences to believe in themselves, believe in each other and believe in their dreams.
Our film has screened at several incredible festivals across the United States and has won both jury and audience awards. I am filled with gratitude and want to recognize the generous support of friends and strangers across the globe who supported this project with donations – they too believed in the good will of this project. This would never have been possible without them. We are continuing to seek support of this project and you can learn more by clicking here.
Thank you again for your interest in this story. Please know that I made this film for you. I made this film for my daughter. I made this film for anyone with a dream.
Thank you for BELIEVING,
Jenna