Contribute to the distribution of the feature film NEWS WITHOUT A NEWSROOM

News Without a Newsroom is a compelling feature-length documentary capturing journalism's transformation in an era of digital upheaval and shrinking trust. It begins in the golden age of local news, evoking the energy of bustling newsrooms, before tracing their decline in the wake of advertising losses, algorithmic content delivery, and political interference. The film confronts the threats posed by artificial intelligence and deepfake technologies, then highlights a movement of grassroots, nonprofit, and independent outlets innovating to restore public trust.

At its core, the documentary is a visual and emotional journey through the voices of veteran journalists, young storytellers, and the communities who still depend on them. It urges audiences to support journalism-not just as consumers, but as citizens safeguarding democracy.

Creative Team:

Oana Martisca - Director/Producer

Director’s Statement

I was drawn to this story not only as a filmmaker but as an observer of change. The disappearance of newsrooms and the erosion of public trust in journalism represent more than industry shifts; they signify a transformation in how we understand truth, community, and democracy itself. As an immigrant to the United States, and especially in light of recent elections, I see journalism through both reverence and urgency—recognizing its role as both a guardian of civic values and a fragile institution in need of renewal.

This film is deeply personal. The voices in it are not just sources; they are mentors, storytellers, and torchbearers of a profession undergoing seismic shifts. From the golden age of newsrooms to the rise of digital media, from the slow collapse of local newspapers to the looming influence of AI-generated content, we are witnessing a battle for information integrity. Yet, amid the uncertainty, I find hope.

EDITING - Sér Lance Walker

CINEMATOGRAPHERS

Miami Unit - Angel Barroeta

New York and DC unit- Julie Peley

LA unit - Jackie Dongze Li

MUSIC

Lead Composers: Brendan Weinbaum & Luis Alacan

Additional Composers: Eunice Jung, Klip Lester, Nolan Slate, & AmyYu

SOUND DESIGN - Scott Pringle

All donations are fully tax deductible to the extent permitted by law and will go directly to this production.

Miami Film Lab is a non profit working to support local filmmakers as they work to make a living telling Miami stories. We are not producing this project but are supporting the local filmmakers as they raise money for their independent production through our fiscal sponsorship program.

News Without a Newsroom - Distribution Fundraiser

A Fiscally Sponsored Film

Team Members