Frank Popper and Jim Kirchherr have co-directed two documentary features that appeared at SLIFF: “Refugees,” an expanded cinéma vérité version of an episode of the PBS series “Homeland: Immigration in America” (SLIFF 2012), and “Gentlemen of Vision,” a profile of an award-winning local step team (SLIFF 2016). Popper also directed the documentary “Can Mr. Smith Get to Washington Anymore?,” which won the Audience Award at the prestigious 2006 AFI Docs film festival (then known as Silverdocs). Most recently, Popper has produced “Tyale McNary: He May Be Wrong, But He Doubts It,” a digital series from St. Louis’ Nine Network that follows the young, hilariously opinionated African-American host as McNary shares his life stories and opinions on everything from politics to seasoning and then discusses those topics with participants on the streets. Kirchherr is senior director of content at the Nine Network, where he’s worked since 1991. He oversees production of local broadcast and digital content, including “Living St. Louis,” documentaries, public-affairs specials, and town halls. For his work as a producer, host, and writer, Kirchherr has been awarded 26 regional Emmy Awards.