About this film

Dream Touch Believe is a timeless, biographical documentary about a man who succeeded in pursuing the impossible. This feature length film explores the unbelievable life and inspiring sculpture of New Mexican artist Michael Naranjo.

As a boy growing up on the Santa Clara Pueblo Indigenous reservation, Naranjo dreamt of becoming an artist – just like many of his ancestors. But at 23-years old Naranjo was drafted to the Vietnam War. During combat, a grenade destroyed his eyes and right hand. In the days and years that followed, Naranjo fought past critics and social stereotypes to harness the life and career of his dreams. From darkness, he resurrected his inner vision and is now a world recognized sculptor. The shadow-like bronzes he creates are treasured for their haunting beauty and are displayed prominently in homes, museums, and grand institutions like the White House and Vatican. But it’s Naranjo’s life story that continues to spark hope within people of all walks of life.

Director Jenna Winters weaves Naranjo's soothing voice with emotional interviews, a trove of historical news media and gorgeously composed original footage. Cinematographer Bill Stengel, known for capturing some of New Mexico’s greatest landscapes and artists on film, juxtaposes darkness and light to remind viewers that although Naranjo’s world is one of darkness, the artist tenaciously manages to find hope.

Dream Touch Believe is a film that will inspire audiences of all ages. While this is a story of just one man, a piece of this story lives within all of us. It’s symbolic that all of us can harness resilience and determination, even in uncertain times.