Rising production company BirdMine is proud to announce that its debut feature documentary, Meandering Scars, has been officially selected to world premiere at the renowned Dances With Films festival in Los Angeles on June 28th. The selection marks a major milestone for BirdMine, a company quickly gaining recognition for its dedication to telling bold, socially conscious stories that amplify underrepresented voices and spark meaningful dialogue.
Directed and produced by BirdMine co-founders Allison Norlian and Kody Leibowitz, Meandering Scars follows Erika Bogan, a wheelchair athlete and domestic violence survivor, as she attempts to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to spotlight the mental health crisis within the disability community. The film is a look at resilience, identity, and the invisible scars left by trauma.
“Being selected for Dances With Films is an incredible honor,” said the filmmaking duo. “This festival celebrates fearless, authentic storytelling – exactly what Erika’s journey embodies. We’re thrilled to premiere Meandering Scars that values stories with purpose and heart. ”
Shot and edited over four years, the documentary blends breathtaking visuals with raw vulnerability. Celebrated filmmaker Valentina Vee served as Director of Photography on the Kilimanjaro climb, capturing the intensity of Erika’s physical and emotional struggle. The film also features the editorial talents of Tal Anderson, an autistic actress and advocate, who brought her unique voice and lived experience to the editing process.
Bogan’s story began near Charlotte, NC, where a domestic violence incident left her paralyzed. Years later, she found empowerment through obstacle course racing and set her sights on Kilimanjaro, not just to challenge herself physically, but to confront the epidemic of suicide and mental health struggles among people with disabilities.
“From the moment Kody and I met Erika, we felt an undeniable connection to her story,” said Norlian. “Her journey reflects themes of resilience, connection, and the fight for inclusion—values that define BirdMine’s mission.”
Leibowitz added, “Meandering Scars is not just a story of overcoming adversity; it’s about redefining access and inspiring conversations around disability and mental health. We hope Erika’s journey sparks meaningful change.”
BirdMine’s storytelling is deeply informed by the personal experiences of its founders. Norlian, a three-time Emmy nominee, is a longtime disability rights advocate inspired by her sister and grandmother. Leibowitz brings a history of investigative journalism and personal connection to disability through his family’s experiences with epilepsy and domestic violence.
In addition to Meandering Scars, BirdMine recently celebrated success with its debut short film Thirteen, which secured educational distribution through New Day Films and Kanopy. The short has screened internationally and earned awards, including Best Actress and Best Original Score at the 2024 Independent Shorts Awards.
With multiple projects in development, BirdMine continues to build a slate of inclusive, impact-driven films.