FESTIVALS
THIS MOVIE
HAS A MISSION
PREMIERES
WORLD PREMIERE
AWARDS
ATLANTA JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL 2024
Nominee, Jury Award
CALIFORNIA PREMIERE
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SOUTHERN PREMIERE
WHY THE NAME CHANGE
This film was originally titled AVENUE OF THE GIANTS, inspired by the towering redwoods of Northern California. As the project grew, the filmmakers realized the story was about more than a place — it was about resilience, courage, and finding hope in the darkest times.
Renaming the film THE OPTIMIST honors Herbert Heller’s enduring belief in life, even after unimaginable loss. It reflects the film’s core message: that optimism can carry us forward, across generations, toward healing.
“Herbert’s optimism carried him through unimaginable loss. Renaming the film THE OPTIMIST felt true to his legacy — and to the hope I want this story to bring audiences today.” — Jeanine Thomas
A CONTINUING JOURNEY
For Thomas, THE OPTIMIST is just the beginning. With several projects in development, they all share a common thread: choosing love over fear, creating meaning out of struggle, and using story to build a more compassionate world.
“I often say I’ve been given so many gifts in this life. I could spend my time making things easier for myself — but that’s not where my heart lives. But I’m called to do work that heals, connects, and sparks hope. I want to create work that truly matters, work that helps people feel less alone and more connected. Within the film, you’ll meet many optimists who model resilience, connection, and love. May you find them — and perhaps feel inspired to become an optimist in your own life, too.” —Jeanine Thomas.