North Country

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In the rugged White Mountains of northern-New Hampshire, Lahout’s has remained open 365 days a year since 1920. While technology and conglomerates have stripped the country of local, independent retailers, a family of Lebanese immigrants has prevailed for a century, beating the Great Depression, World War II, Dot Com Crash and Great Recession. With a family and staff who have spent their entire lives working at the shop, we arrive at their centennial during a vulnerable time. The patriarch (Joe Lahout Sr) is in an intense fight with father time. Having skied, worked-out and traveled well into his 90’s, Joe has begun to struggle with his daily rehab and medication schedule, while his grandson (Anthony Lahout) has returned home to help with his recovery. As Anthony begins spending time with him, he explores his grandfather’s lineage as well as questions the source to the store’s success. As we approach 2020, the reality of life-without-Joe is introduced to the Lahout family and staff, sending shockwaves throughout the ranks.

Award-winning director Nick Martini and cinematographer Cam Riley have teamed up with executive producer Anthony Lahout to captivate a nation consumed with hashtags instead of history. This film tells a timeless short story of the American dream and the family that put a community on skis. After 100 years, Lahout’s is still a family business moving onto its fourth generation. Through past and present, we learn the true source of the store’s success. As their monarch passes on, we question and discover the backbone of its longevity. We hope to inspire immigrants, military veterans, millennials, grandchildren, family businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts that all in America is not lost.

Film Details

Director: Nick Martini

Year of Release: 2019

Running Time: 20:00

New England Connection: Shot and Focused on New Hampshire Business, with Director and EP also being from New Hampshire.

Director(s) Bio:: Born and raised in Boston, Nick’s obsession with moving images inspired migration to sunny California. As Stept’s founder and creative director, Nick has been the cornerstone for all Stept Studios generated content. Nick’s work has taken him around the globe. Whether heli-orbiting waterfalls in Iceland or mingling on the edgy streets of Venice Beach, he has told stories featuring the world’s greatest athletes, lifestyles, and brands.

Nick has recently been enlisted by The North Face, Under Armour, and Oakley to produce their dynamic brand anthems. He specializes in visual based imagery and fast moving pictures– often bringing a smile to viewers’ faces. His portfolio features national TV spots, branded content, and feature-length films.

Budget: $40,000

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