Dear MKE film series shines as "heartfelt love letter to Milwaukee"

MILWAUKEE -- The first of 12 short documentaries celebrating the city of Milwaukee is now available for anyone to see online. It made its debut at the Milwaukee Film Festival on September 27th and kicks off the the Dear MKE film series.

Its creators say "the Dear MKE kickoff film is a heartfelt love letter to Milwaukee. Filled with cinematic images of iconic Milwaukee landmarks and locals enjoying the city."

“The Dear MKE film series is a unique image campaign in that we’re painting a picture of Milwaukee and its many facets through the stories of Milwaukeeans. We hope to dispel old perceptions of Milwaukee, drive brand awareness, entice new talent, attract new businesses, and bring more visitors – and remind locals why we embrace the essence of what makes life good here,” said Paul Upchurch, President and CEO of VISIT Milwaukee.

Dear MKE brings together an all-Milwaukee creative team under the direction of VISIT Milwaukee and Hollywood producer Jack Turner, who grew up in Milwaukee.

The Dear MKE kickoff film debuts alongside the first two short documentaries in the series. Local artist, Reginald Baylor, is profiled in a piece that showcases Milwaukee’s creative side and the vibrancy of the Historic Third Ward where the artist has a studio.  The series then takes viewers on a journey alongside Kohl’s clothing designer, Nicole LaBrie, as she attempts to conquer the Riverwest 24. This documentary highlights Milwaukee’s “can-do” spirit, its close-knit neighborhood communities and the loveable quirks that set us apart from other cities.

The remaining 10 documentaries will be released over the next several months, including four that will be chosen as a result of the Dear MKE story contest. The contest invites public participation in the project by asking people to send in their stories via photo, text or video, for consideration as part of the documentary series. The contest is open through Friday, Oct. 12, 2012. Details of the contest can be found at DearMKE.com.  Entrants whose ideas are selected will win a Milwaukee prize package valued at up to $1,000.