Movies by Marlo Poras

Marlo Poras is a singular voice in American independent cinema, crafting poignant, character-driven films that shine a light on underrepresented communities and stories. With a keen eye for detail and an empathetic approach, Poras immerses audiences in the lived experiences of her subjects, from the remote reaches of rural China to the bustling streets of the American South. Her breakout film, 2002's "Mai's America," introduced Poras' signature style - blending observational documentary techniques with narrative elements to create intimate, immersive portraits. This lyrical exploration of a Hmong teenager's culture clash when she exchanges her Laotian village for the American Deep South won widespread critical acclaim and established Poras as a filmmaker to watch. She would go on to apply this sensitive, humanistic lens to other marginalized communities, as seen in the stirring portrait of elderly political activists in "Run Granny Run" (2007) and the tender sisterly bond at the heart of "The Mosuo Sisters" (2012). Most recently, Poras turned her attention to the world of competitive ice skating with the acclaimed "Icebreakers" (2025), leveraging her keen eye for character and intimate access to craft a complex, deeply felt drama that challenges assumptions about this rarefied athletic domain. Whether delving into the past or casting an eye to the future, Marlo Poras consistently proves herself to be a distinctive cinematic voice, one unafraid to shine a light on the quiet heroism of everyday lives.