The 9th annual BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival returns to The Cary September 10-13, 2026. Join us for 4-days of thought-provoking short films, industry talks, workshops, and a live reading of this year’s Grand Jury Award for Best Screenplay, Dream Meanings, written by Rebecca Kane.
Disclaimer: Some films are not rated and may contain language or subject matter that may not be suitable for all ages. Viewer discretion is advised.
Not Rated | 36 minutes | 2025 | Documentary
FREE JOAN LITTLE tells the story of the 1975 groundbreaking case of Joan Little who was the first woman in U.S history to be acquitted for using deadly force to resist sexual assault. At 20 years old, Joan (pronounced Jo-Ann) Little was incarcerated in North Carolina when she killed a white jailer who she said tried to rape her. Her trial drew international attention, becoming a rallying point for civil rights, women’s rights and prison reform. The case brought together activists, including Angela Davis and Rosa Parks, and catalyzed an international conversation about sexual assault and racial justice that has reverberations to this day. With rare archival footage, contemporary interviews and the folk anthem that carried her cause, FREE JOAN LITTLE captures the spirit of resistance that made history.
A special Q&A with director Yoruba Richen and producer Christalyn Hampton follows the screening. After the event, please join us for our opening night party in BREW Coffee Bar. Presented in partnership with the Southern Documentary Fund.