

The most intense competition you've never heard of. Don't blink.
A documentary crew planned to film the 17th Annual Staring Contest, but things took an unexpected turn.
Acting
Contestants commit harder than method actors
Direction
Jo Firestone weaponizes awkward silence
Editing
Timing so tight you'll forget to breathe

Director
Jo Firestone
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Jo Firestone filmed this during actual senior center events, blending real contestants with ringers.
The film spawned real-life staring contest leagues in Brooklyn and Portland—art imitates life imitates art.
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