Step into the heart of North Carolina, where the echoes of textile mills once defined the rhythm of life. Interwoven is a compelling short documentary that masterfully stitches together the past, present, and future of a community shaped by the textile industry. Directed by Dr. Dawn Carpenter, an award-winning ethicist and podcast host, the film is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and collective action.
Opening with a thought-provoking quote from Marcus Aurelius—"Everything is interwoven, and the web is holy"—the film sets the stage for a deeply connected narrative. Through a seamless blend of historical photographs, contemporary footage, and an evocative soundtrack featuring James McMurtry’s We Can't Make It Here, Interwoven presents a moving portrait of a region that has faced profound economic upheaval yet continues to find ways to thrive.
At the heart of the documentary is the impact of NAFTA, which led to widespread job losses and economic despair in North Carolina’s textile sector. However, Interwoven does not dwell solely on loss; instead, it highlights the remarkable efforts to reclaim the community’s economic future. One of the most inspiring aspects of the film is the focus on initiatives like the Industrial Commons, an organization dedicated to fostering worker ownership and sustainable industry practices. Through insightful interviews with key figures such as Molly Hemstreet (Co-Founder of The Industrial Commons), Catherine Armstrong (Director of Carolina Textile District), and Bob Carswell (R&D Director for Material Return), the documentary explores how community-driven solutions are revitalizing the local economy.
A particularly poignant moment comes from Jim Warlick, founder of the Worker’s Legacy Project, as he discusses The Dignity of Work monument and exhibition. The tribute, dedicated in May 2023, immortalizes millworkers like his mother, Mary Warlick, ensuring that their contributions are recognized in the fabric of history. His heartfelt words remind us of the often-overlooked laborers who built communities but rarely received acknowledgment.
The documentary also offers a hopeful look at the future through its coverage of the planned innovation campus in Morganton. With Erin Kizer, Senior Director of Infrastructure for The Industrial Commons, discussing the 30-acre development, and Walter Vincente, Plant Manager of Opportunity Threads, sharing his aspirations, Interwoven underscores how these initiatives will create sustainable jobs and economic stability for generations to come.
One of the film’s most impressive strengths is its impeccable editing and cinematography. Michael Hogan’s expertise ensures that the documentary flows seamlessly from one story to the next, with each interview and piece of b-roll thoughtfully placed to enhance the narrative. The crisp audio work, led by sound designer Mark Bush, ensures that every voice is clear and impactful, further elevating the documentary’s emotional resonance.
Culminating in an uplifting message from labor historian James C. Benton, Ph.D., Interwoven leaves viewers with a sense of possibility. The recent $100 million grant awarded to the Industrial Commons by the National Science Foundation in 2024 signals a promising future for North Carolina’s textile industry—one rooted in sustainability, innovation, and community-driven progress.
Ultimately, Interwoven is an inspiring and informative documentary that weaves together personal stories, historical context, and forward-thinking solutions. It’s a beautifully crafted piece of filmmaking that honors the past while embracing the future, proving that even in times of hardship, a community can come together to reimagine its destiny.
Jessie Hobson