To Live and Die in the Midwest

When an indie movie comes to a small western Colorado town, the seemingly impossible task of creating an art community in an oil town becomes feasible. In a town where the suicide rate among young people is double that of the nation, "Dead Zone" creates a once in a lifetime opportunity for the next generation of the Grand Valley. The pandemic arises out of nowhere, putting this dream on hold. The crew full of students must now navigate through an unforgiving industry, mental illness and a pandemic

Directed by Taylor Mahoney, To Live and Die in the Midwest leans on a strong ensemble — Michael Jai White, Joel Cochran, Taylor Mahoney — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 0.