“Keepers of the Canyon” (2024) is a Documentary Senior Thesis from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts Directed by Ashley Kuckler. This heartfelt story follows Barefoot Joel, the passionate founder of the movement “Naturalist For You,” as he leads a grassroots effort to preserve one of Southern California’s last wild canyons. As plans for a sprawling new apartment complex threaten the land, Joel and his community of environmental stewards rally against development, illuminating a powerful story of resistance, reverence for nature, and the deep connection between people and place.

Original Score by Owen Grey