Fordham University
A Vital Sun

A Vital Sun is from Fordham University and Lightbeam’s Better Business digital series, which highlights business leaders driving positive change. Narrated by Ben Stiller, the film profiles SEKEM, an Egyptian company that transforms desert land into fertile farmland using biodynamic farming methods.
Director
Alison Bartlett
Alison Bartlett is a distinguished actor, writer, and director whose career spans television, film, and stage work. She is recognized for her dynamic performances in landmark series including Sesame Street, The Sopranos, Rescue Me, and Law & Order. On Broadway, Bartlett starred in Hurly Burly under the direction of Mike Nichols, and in Landscape of the Body directed by Gary Sinise. Her exceptional work in ABC’s It’s Only Rock & Roll earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress. As a screenwriter, Bartlett’s original screenplay Carry Me was honored with a Silver Remi Award at the Houston International Film Festival. Her upcoming acting credits include The History of Sound (2025 Official Selection, Cannes Film Festival), Celine Song’s Materialists, and Josh Safdie’s Marty Supreme. In addition to her acting and writing, Bartlett is the visionary force behind the Better Business film series, directing Zen Brownie narrated by Jeff Bridges and A Vital Sun narrated by Ben Stiller.
Cast and Crew
Cast
Ben Stiller
Agency
Lightbeam
Brand
Fordham University
Executive Producer
Jesse Scolaro
Michael Pirson
Parker Williams
Ariane Saney
Editor
Rodrigo Lopresti
Cinematographer
Rodrigo Lopresti
Screenwriter
Alison Bartlett
Producer
Alison Bartlett
Director
Alison Bartlett