Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Some of the most promising young filmmakers in the movie business are arriving in Hollywood already experts at entertaining audiences and going viral. The twin sensations of “Obsession” and “Backrooms” — both by 20-something YouTubers-turned-filmmakers — has put a new spotlight on an increasingly well-trod path to the director's chair. One name is a film maker from Mobile.

A groundbreaking film on Alabama’s prison system is a step closer to one of Hollywood’s highest honors. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences named “The Alabama Solution” as a nominee for Best Documentary. The film was shot with footage taken by inmates inside the state’s prisons. APR student reporter Emily Ahearn spoke with the co-producers of the film, who also directed.

A documentary shot with footage smuggled out of Alabama prisons may be in contention for an Academy Award. The nominees for this year’s Oscars will announced later this week. “The Alabama Solution” was shortlisted for “Documentary Feature Film” category.

Today’s announcement of the nominees for this year’s Academy Awards included good news for an Alabama based movie director and screenwriter.

Alabama is going to be featured at the Oscars for the second year in a row. Last year the psychological thriller “Get Out” won best original screenplay…