A diverse cast of non-professional runners attempt to complete the most difficult ultramarathon race series on Earth. Their dramatic journey takes them across the World's most picturesque yet brutal landscapes, pushing their bodies, hearts and spirits through a myriad of external and internal obstacles. DESERT RUNNERS delves into the mindset of ultra-athletes, and the complex ways in which human beings deal with both heartbreak and triumph.
Jennifer Steinman Sternin is an award-winning Director, Producer and Editor, and the Chapter Leader of the San Francisco Film Fatales. She is currently directing two new documentaries, one featuring legendary Afro-Latina percussionist SHEILA E., and one chronicling the rise to fame of 100- and 105-year-old internet sensations, GRAMMA AND GINGA. Previous feature documentary films include: TIME FOR ILHAN, Producer (Tribeca Film Festival & HotDocs 2018), DESERT RUNNERS, Director, Producer & Editor (IDFA, MVFF 2013), MOTHERLAND, Director, Producer & Editor (SXSW Audience Award Winner, 2009). Jennifer directs, produces and edits television, branded content and commercial work for various clients and is an Emmy-nominated film editor. She is also expanding into directing narrative fiction, and has two shorts and a feature script in development.
