Join us Friday, May 9, for a special film screening of Do I Need This? Followed by a discussion with the director and senior moving specialist, Kathy Kaufmann.
About the Film
DO I NEED THIS? is a sugar-coated environmental film which delicately interweaves Emmy-winner Kate Schermerhorn’s complicated relationship to her family’s material possessions, every object seemingly imbued with meaning and memories, together with a journey into the homes and minds of her fellow Americans – from a woman who hoards to a Buddhist monk. When Kate’s mother falls ill with dementia, Kate starts to search, instead, for the stuff that really matters. Unlike many other films exploring American excess, Do I Need This? focuses not on our impact on nature, but instead on our human nature to consume.
On the surface, Do I Need This? is a joy ride through American excessive consumption habits; at its core, it is a deep and genuine reflection on aging, legacy, and happiness. Much of Do I Need This? takes place in Marin, and features Marin residents.
Producer/Director/Writer – Kate Schermerhorn
Co-producer/Director of Photography – Vicente Franco
Editor/Co-writer – Elizabeth Finlayson
Event Details
Showtimes
1:30 PM and 5:00 PM
Film’s runtime is 63 minutes. The 1:30 PM showing will be preceded by PVI’s annual Mother’s Day Luncheon.
Admission
Free; Donations are encouraged
All donations go toward Beach Break Entertainment
We are excited to see you May 9!
Location
Additional street parking is based on availability.
Meet the Speakers
Kate Schermerhorn is an Emmy-winning filmmaker and still photographer, and also an alum of the Culinary Institute of America. Kate has directed 100s of videos, including three feature length docs, won an Emmy and been nominated for one more. Kate has also won multiple Tellies and other prestigious awards.
Kate has tackled topics from marriage to earthquakes, published a book of photographs about things Americans do for fun, lived in four countries, and has been in Marin County for the past 14 years. The New Yorker said of Kate’s work, ‘nothing seems wasted, and nothing is excessive.’
Kathy Kaufmann spent a combined two decades in the biotech industry, nonprofits and as an entrepreneur. While working in Development at the Institute on Aging in San Francisco, she discovered that most seniors want to age in place. However, there are often large life changes that interfere with this dream, such as declining health, loss of family members, and dwindling funds to pay for care.
Armed with the support of her fellow professionals and the desire to help seniors fulfill their needs in their current or future homes, Kathy started her business as a senior move manager. Over the years, she included moving and home organizing. Although she started with a specialty in helping seniors, Kathy and her team use patience, honesty, and hard work to help people of all ages.
The Happy Home Crew has contracts with San Mateo County Adult Protective Services to help seniors in hoarding situations keep their housing, and the trust of dozens of realtors, social workers, and homeowners to help them manage their stuff to improve how they manage their lives.
Get Your Ticket Today!
Founded in August 2020 by Palo Alto Native, Julie Mell, Beach Break brings independent films and outdoor movie experiences to the San Mateo County coast. Inspired by her love for independent cinema and years attending Sundance, Julie launched the initiative during the COVID-19 shutdown, offering pop-up drive-in screenings that supported local businesses and nonprofits. Encouraged by the community, she later established the Beach Break Film Festival (BBFFHMB), with its inaugural event in December 2022. With a background in film festivals and community engagement, Julie has successfully created a unique cultural event showcasing groundbreaking independent films. Beach Break Entertainment has donated over $35,000 to local nonprofits.
PVI's Mother's Day Luncheon
Friday, May 9 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Menu will be Lemon Herb Salmon, Roasted Potatoes, and Asparagus | $20 for Non-Members
Come celebrate Mother’s Day with PVI! We’ll be serving a delicious lunch while listening to Top Shelf Jazz Band.
Save Your Seat Today by Contacting Us at 650-326-0665 or [email protected]
