(Scott Galloway & Brent Pierson, US 2006, 78 min.)

Self-taught topiary gardener Pearl Fryar is living proof that one man can indeed make a difference. His dazzling, one-of-a-kind plant sculptures in his magical backyard have earned media and tourist attention and revived his once-declining hometown of Bishopville, located in the poorest county of South Carolina. A teacher, mentor, and unique artist, Fryar’s powers of inspiration seemingly know no bounds and this entertaining and moving documentary shares his message of “Love, Peace & Goodwill.” A Man Named Pearl is the first film in George Eastman House’s Human Spirit Series, a nine-program series exploring the individual’s power to make positive contributions to the lives of others. A special panel discussion will follow the 8 p.m. program on September 20 only.

The panel will be moderated by Jim Locke, Chair of the Motion Picture Department’s Acquisition Committee at George Eastman House. Panelists are Anthony Bannon, director of George Eastman House; Ruby Lockhart, executive director of Garth Fagan Dance; Dr. Shirley Mullen, president of Houghton College; and Dr. John Wilkinson, head pastor of Third Presbyterian Church.