Strong Love is the story of world-class weight lifter Jon Shapiro and his childhood sweetheart Holly James, both of whom were born with Down syndrome. This documentary follows the Marin County California couple over the course of three years, starting with their decision to get married. Their challenges, their triumphs, and their complex, sometimes surprising relationships with family and friends are at the heart of this inspiring film.

director / editor: Bonnie Burt
Bonnie Burt has been a Bay Area, California documentary filmmaker for 20 years. Her work has been seen on television and in film festivals worldwide. "A Home on the Range: The Jewish Chicken Ranchers of Petaluma", a recent film was broadcast on the Truly CA series on KQED as well as on public television stations and in film festivals worldwide. Her film about same sex marriage "My Sister, My Bride" premiered at the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival. Her most recent film, Strong Love, premiered at the Mill Valley Film Festival in October 2007.

www.bonnieburt.com

director's statement:

Before meeting Holly James and Jon Shapiro I hadn't had much contact with people born with Down syndrome. When I met them we connected immediately and to my surprise we were able to talk as if we were old friends. This experience was eye opening for me.

Spending the past 3 years with them has taught me how limitless human potential can be when people are encouraged and loved. My feeling about people who have a disability has been changed forever. I hope the audience will leave the film realizing that people who may seem to be very different at first glance actually share the same basic desires and needs.