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A sheriff and seven confident people in front of a sunrise from two different locations. The words What It Takes

Spark Hope and Healing in Your Community

See What It Takes to realize it's time for change...

... to help.

... to heal.

... to recover.

Watch the Trailer

What It Takes Trailer

What It Takes Trailer

In Theaters

  • California Premiere
    California Premiere
    Sun, May 17
    The Frida Cinema
    May 17, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:10 PM
    The Frida Cinema, 305 E 4th St #100, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
    More than a film premiere, it is a night of healing **Link below takes you to Frida Cinema's ticketing page**
  • Chicagoland Premiere
    Chicagoland Premiere
    Mon, Jun 08
    The Wilmette Theatre
    Jun 08, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM CDT
    The Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091, USA
    More than a screening, it is a night of hope and healing. Tickets available from Wilmette Theatre.

About the Film

What It Takes is a documentary featuring two different stories set on opposite coasts that share more in common than meets the eye. The shared arc of their lives reveals the devastation that substance use disorder leaves in its wake, the power of a little grace, and how love can light the path to redemption. 

Appearing in the film: Sheriff Karl Leonard, Kerri Rhodes, Craig Fordham Jr, Earnest Thomas, Kevin Wheeler, Amin Wright, Ashlee Poch, Elizabeth Poch, Jason Poch, Trevor Poch

Run time 84 minutes

Directed by Jeff Shulman
Cinematography by Steven Fong,

Jawfox Productions, Jeff Shulman

Finishing Editor Steven Fong

Who is Hosting Screenings

What It Takes is more than a film, it is an invitation to heal.

Recovery Communities

Motivate a commitment to

true healing and long-lasting recovery.

Government Agencies

Convey a commitment to public health with programming centered on substance use prevention and recovery support.

Faith Communities

Open a conversation about  redemption, restoration, and

the power of grace.

"A beautiful documentary."
 
- Andrea Suarez, Executive Director, We Heart Seattle

What You Get

Screening License

One-time, in-person exhibition of the film

HD Streaming Access

Private link available during the date you select for your event

Discussion Guide

Structured questions and talking points to turn inspiration into action

Promotional Toolkit

Ready-to-use graphics, sample email/social copy, printable event flyer template

Host Guide

Step by Step instructions to bring hope to your community with simple run-of-show suggestions to help you create a meaningful event experience

What You Need

Internet Access

Stable high speed internet

Computer

Laptop or desktop with HDMI output

Projector or TV

Projector or TV the connects to computer

Sound Capability

Sound system appropriate for the venue

Host

A host or facilitator to welcome attendees and guide discussion

Host a Screening
 

Bring Hope to Your Community

Make An Inquiry

Organization type

Fill out the form below for more information about hosting a screening event.

© 2026 by On the Brink Productions, LLC  

email: support [at] whatittakes.com

 

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