Ep1196: IndieSeen: IndieSeen: The Forgotten Occupation w/ Alain Martin
IndieSeen kicks off 2026 on a high note with special guest Alain Martin, the first-time feature director of The Forgotten Occupation: Jim Crow Goes to Haiti!
This engrossing and thought-provoking documentary looks at the patterns of civil and colonial strife that have rocked the country since its inception. Framed as a letter to Martin's deceased grandfather, who held America in an esteem that directly countered that of his grandson, the film explores the complicated social movements, occupational resistance, corporate takeovers, and cultural strife that form the dueling identities at the heart of Haitian-American culture.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Ian and Sujewa dig into Martin's decade-plus struggle to make, refine, and release the film; the editorial choices that invite audiences to dig deeper into modern day issues afflicting the nation; and his hopes for turning his beloved homeland around.
The Forgotten Occupation will debut on various VOD platforms beginning in February, and kicks off a handful of limited runs in select cities, beginning with the L.A. premiere this weekend (more information below).
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Show Links
Watch the Forgotten Occupation (2026) trailer.
In L.A.? Catch The Forgotten Occupation at the Lumiere Theatre during its exclusive one-week engagement (including the 1/10 premiere with Alain and special guests in attendance)!
Learn more about The Forgotten Occupation, including when/where you can see it!
Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!
Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube!
Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).
Follow Sujewa on X.
Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!
