Puzzles: When Hate Came to Town

"Beautifully made, heartfelt view of how all of us struggle for respect and connection in America today. The film portrays a dying city and people without jobs, a future or a safety net finding safe harbor in self-made 'families'.  PUZZLES is a deeply human exploration of the roots of hate violence and how a horrendous crime becomes a catalyst for a community to reach out for greater understanding and connection."

"A brilliant documentary, whose strength is not only in the captivating story it tells, but in the way that it is told -- by the citizens themselves. In their own words those on both sides of this tragedy take us directly into the world of those changed by hate."

"Remarkable and important documentary! It’s unique in its ability to provide such access into the world of a Neo-Nazi hate crime offender and simultaneously the world of his victims.
It allows the viewer an in-depth look into the friends of a hate crime offender and how they believe they must remain supportive of their friend even as some condemn his actions.”

"Eye opening portrait of gay life in a multiracial, working class New England town struggling to cope with the economic downturn. PUZZLES serves as a catalyst for discussions ranging from anti-homophobia and bullying to gender relations, coming out and the challenges of working class families in America. Excellent documentary for use in education, sociology and LGBT and Gender Studies."

"Timely! PUZZLES brings many crucial issues together in a tight, compelling way. Economic desperation, racism, intolerance, scapegoating, and violence--what a toxic American mix. This documentary will be invaluable in helping high school teachers and their students unpack the connections between multiple forms of oppression."

"PUZZLES is about as complete, poignant, and meaningful a story of hate and its consequences . . . ."