October 12
As political tensions continue to divide Americans, the search for ways to bridge the gap between family, friends, and neighbors has never been more urgent. Annie Roney, founder of the non-profit In Real Life (IRL) Movie Club, believes that shared experiences—especially through the universal language of film—can foster understanding and reconnect communities across ideological lines.
On October 12, at least 100 theaters nationwide, including in Delray Beach and Bonita Springs, Florida, will host screenings of MY OMAHA, a compelling documentary that exemplifies this mission. The film chronicles filmmaker Nick Beaulieu’s personal journey to reconcile with his terminally ill father, a staunch pro-Trump supporter. Through this intimate story, MY OMAHA explores the complex dynamics of family, beliefs, and the importance of empathy—making it a perfect catalyst for meaningful conversation.
A Grassroots Movement for Connection
The IRL Movie Club is intentionally low-tech, grassroots, and community-driven. Rather than a traditional post-film Q&A, attendees are encouraged to connect with their seatmates, discuss their impressions of the film, and extend the conversation into their neighborhoods by sharing coffee, dinner, and personal stories. The goal is simple: to create safe, accessible spaces where people from different backgrounds can listen, learn, and perhaps even see each other in a new light.
Each theater also offers a welcome message from the filmmaker, emphasizing the importance of personal storytelling and shared humanity. To make these screenings accessible for all, tickets are subsidized, costing only $5 per person, and membership to the IRL Movie Club is free.
The Power of Film to Heal Divides
Founded by Annie Roney, who also leads ROCO Films—a global documentary distribution company with 18 Oscar-nominated titles—the organization champions the idea that movies can be more than entertainment. They serve as conversation starters, bridges for empathy, and tools for community-building. By focusing on real, relatable stories, IRL aims to foster dialogue that addresses our collective challenges and promotes understanding, one conversation at a time.
With its upcoming screening of MY OMAHA, IRL continues its mission to bring people back together through honest storytelling and heartfelt discussion. As Annie Roney emphasizes, these in-person movie clubs are about more than watching films—they’re about reconnecting with each other, challenging assumptions, and working toward a more unified future, all starting with a simple “Hello” in a dark theater.