Chase Production Film

Gwen Briesemeister-D irector/Producer

502 Elm Ave. E

Delano, MN 55328

(763) 221-6136

I am an independent filmmaker, former gifted/talented coordinator, and video production instructor. I have worked for more than 26 years mentoring students in a variety of film projects from documentary to narrative to weekly news shows. I created my own production company 14 years ago and have been working on short independent documentary projects. ever since. My films focus on seemingly ordinary individuals with extraordinary stories. My work has been screened at several film festivals throughout the midwest. Delano Heroes received honorable mention at the Moving Pictures Film Festival sponsored by the Minnesota History Center and Grin and Bear It received and Honorable Mention at the Shamrock Film Festival in Rosemount. I am a member of Film North, Minnesota Film Arts, and MNWIFT. I served on the board of the Minnesota Women in Film and Television and am a past President of the Minnesota Educators of the Gifted and Talented

Beyond New Beginnings-Completed Documentary is now available! (click to watch below)

The Beyond New Beginnings Program supports and nurtures young moms and their children as they gain independence in safe, stable homes while being actively involved in the New Beginnings High School Program, post-secondary education and/or employment by empowering them to become healthy, engaged, members of a community. This documentary will highlight the strengths of the program, aspirations for the future and highlight the success stories of this community funded program. Through personal interviews and footage from inside the everyday activities of the residents the story will unfold.

Current Project:

Unraveling the Ribbon

This documentary explores the deep cultural, spiritual, and political meaning of the Native American ribbon skirt. Worn with pride, each skirt tells a personal and collective story of resilience, identity, and ancestral connection. Once forced underground, the ribbon skirt reemerged after the 1978 Religious Freedom Act, becoming a powerful symbol of Indigenous survival and sovereignty. Women across generations share how the skirts are part of ceremony, personal healing, political resistance, and creative expression.

Director statement:

Through sewing circles and storytelling, the ribbon skirt has become a living garment that binds indigenous communities, honors teachings, and proudly asserts, “We are still here.” It was important to me that this film be told through the voice and lens of indigenous women. This film features 8 indigenous women who tell the story of the ribbon skirt from their personal perspectives.

Update:

Unraveling the Ribbon is completed and has been accepted to screen at the Crow River Film Festival in St. Micheal, Minnesota on Saturday, August 30 at 1:30 p.m. It has just been accepted for screening at the Eagan Film Festival in Eagan, MN. (time to be determined yet)