Culture • Spirit • Purpose
The meaning behind our name
Michigan’s Ojibwe are the indigenous people who had a profound connection to the land and water. For them, the Detroit River was a lifeline, offering resources and spiritual connection, while its twists taught them patience and perseverance. The Ojibwe referred to this area as, “Where the River Bends”. Thus, our mission at Bending River Films is to pay tribute to their journeys by telling stories which build the foundation and identity of all that they reach.
The Filmmakers
Keith Famie and Mark Salloum bring together decades of experience in storytelling, production, and documentary filmmaking. Keith’s Emmy Award-winning human-interest films and Mark’s decades of work in broadcast and feature documentaries converge in Bending River Films, where their shared passion for meaningful stories drives every project. By combining their talents, they’ve built a studio devoted to films that inspire, inform, and educate.
The Crew
Meet the crew behind the camera at Bending River Films. Our strength lies not only in the stories we tell, but in the people who bring them to life. Guided by a shared passion for humanity, connection, and truth, our team is dedicated to creating films that resonate long after the credits roll.
Impact beyond the screen
Our films have been celebrated with awards, festival screenings, and powerful community impact. From Emmy Award-winning documentaries and PBS broadcasts to high-profile brand stories and sold-out community premieres, our work has raised awareness of critical issues like cancer, Alzheimer’s, military service, and cultural heritage. By blending cinematic craft with purpose, we continue to inspire action and shape conversations across audiences and generations.