Director's Take

I was born in Elyria, OH, 30 miles southwest of Cleveland, and from birth I cheered for Cleveland's teams. My heart is full of memories of watching the Browns, Cavaliers, and Indians with friends and family. Those teams will always hold a special place in my heart.

After graduating from the University of Toledo, I was lucky enough to land a job with ESPN in 2002 -- and from that day, I began to understand that there was a certain national perception of Cleveland I was unaware of until I went to work on the East Coast. When I would tell people that I am a Cleveland fan, and that I love that city, I'd hear, "Why cheer for Cleveland?" and "Find new teams" and -- the one I've heard the most -- "I feel so sorry for you". It was eye-opening to realize that Cleveland was considered a place where bright hopes of victory end in darkness and despair.

"Believeland" is Cleveland to the core. It's the story of the fans whose love and loyalty have endured despite half a century of losing, and the spiritual and economic impact of sports in a city that has suffered more than its share of scorn. Above all, "Believeland" is a testament to the unique power of sports to create communal bonds faith and love, regardless of the final score.

I love Cleveland. I still live and die with each victory and defeat. And I hope that everyone who sees "Believeland" will come away feeling some of that hard-earned love. Go Cleveland!