WASHINGTON — AARP announced the release of its latest feature-length documentary film, The Hidden Power of Purpose, which is narrated by five-time Emmy Award winner Debbie Allen.
The film tells the inspiring stories of four individuals, age 50 or older, who found purpose by dedicating themselves to improving their communities. The documentary explores how these efforts worked to benefit their own health as well.
The Hidden Power of Purpose is produced by AARP Studios and directed by award-winning filmmaker Elliot Kotek, from the Nation of Artists. The documentary makes its world premiere Oct. 8 at The Heartland International Film Festival in Indianapolis.
“AARP Studios is honored to bring to audiences around the world the compelling stories of four amazing people who are living lives driven by purpose to make the world a better place for all of us,” said Jason Orfanon, vice president and executive producer of AARP Studios. “Scientists and researchers agree, living with a purpose has the hidden power to help us lead longer, healthier lives.”
The documentary includes insights of scientists whose work affirms that living with purpose improves health and longevity, the press release noted. That includes CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta, who shares insights on the correlation between brain health and living a meaningful life.
Also featured in the film are scientists from the University of Michigan, Cornell, UCLA, Johns Hopkins and George Mason University, as well as Deepak Chopra, a leader in holistic health and human potential.
The documentary will be featured at additional film festivals throughout October, including the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival in Hot Springs, Ark.; the Newport Beach Film Festival in Newport Beach, Calif.; and the Downtown LA Film Festival in Los Angeles.
In early November, The Hidden Power of Purpose will be available for purchase or rental on Apple TV, Google Play, and Amazon. The documentary’s trailer can at AARP’s website.
“Finding our purpose is what guides us and gives our life meaning. It’s also associated with living a longer, healthier and happier life,” said Jo Ann Jenkins, AARP’s CEO. “The leaders featured in this film are proof that you can find your purpose from many sources and at any age.”

After closing his business and enduring several painful years of uncertainty regarding what to do with his life, Greg founded Forward From 50 to help men and women over 50 to live more purposeful lives by pursuing things they are passionate about. A Wisconsin native, Greg currently lives in Arizona.