HIGH POINT, N.C., Aug. 12, 2025 – The High Point Market Authority (HPMA) and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) School of Filmmaking are collaborating to produce at least one documentary film featuring High Point Market, the world’s largest biannual home furnishings trade event.
HPMA’s Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Ben Muller, entered into the partnership with Deborah LaVine, Dean of the UNCSA School of Filmmaking. Together, they will be credited as co-producers. The productions will offer opportunities for UNCSA student filmmakers to participate in all aspects of the documentary filmmaking process as members of the crew.
“High Point Market has been an economic and cultural phenomenon in this region of North Carolina for over a century,” says Muller. “I’m excited to collaborate with Deborah and one of the nation’s top-ranked film schools to spotlight a genuinely unique and enduring community ecosystem.”
Two experienced filmmakers were tapped by LaVine and Muller to lead the project.
UNCSA alum Nathan Knox (B.F.A. ‘18) is an award-winning filmmaker and cofounder of Notable Human Films, known for celebratory, character-driven explorations of the human spirit. His work blends the rigor of documentary with the emotional power of narrative cinema. Over the past decade, Nathan has created films for leading nonprofits that illuminate how education, innovation, and creativity unlock human potential.
His films have earned numerous accolades and humanitarian awards, with selections at Oscar qualifying film festivals. His mission and approach to filmmaking have placed him in acclaimed social-issue festivals like NBC’s Meet the Press Film Festival while also connecting with story-loving audiences, including in North Carolina’s very own Riverrun, Reel to Reel and Beaufort International film festivals.
Alexis Brunnert is an impact-driven filmmaker, documentary editor, and multimedia storyteller with nearly a decade of experience crafting engaging, socially relevant storytelling for the nonprofit sector. Her passion for untold, inspirational stories led her to co-found Notable Human Films, where she wields the resonant power of documentary to elevate and celebrate changemakers.
Alexis has collaborated with a staggering diversity of incredible talent, entrusted by Cannes Golden Lion-winning directors and Grammy-winning musicians to bring personally meaningful yet universally relevant stories to life. In partnership with organizations such as World Wildlife Fund, the South Korean Embassy, TERC, the National Science Foundation, and other leading nonprofits, she continues to use storytelling to drive awareness that fosters tangible impact.
The production team will begin its research phase at Fall Market in October, immersing themselves in the five-day trade event and related activities. Its crew will include UNCSA School of Filmmaking students, with filming expected to take place during the Spring Market in April 2026, including interviews with industry professionals and area residents connected to the show.
“The documentary will stand as a testament to what can be achieved when creative education and industry expertise come together,” adds LaVine. “We are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity to our students to have hands-on experience in the production of documentary film. We plan to submit the film to festivals across the country that celebrate innovation, design, and community impact, ensuring the story of High Point Market reaches audiences who can truly appreciate its influence.”
The completed documentary is targeted for release in late 2026.
