About the Director

Susan Maughlin Wood is an independent documentary filmmaker whose work focuses on real-world conflict, resilience, and the human experience under pressure. With a background in observational storytelling, Wood centers her films around firsthand voices and lived experience rather than external narration. Her approach emphasizes authenticity and emotional clarity, allowing audiences to connect deeply with the subjects on screen.

Coastal Fire: A Common Diary is a documentary short film that combines documentary footage with dreamlike imagery to capture the zeitgeist of a population, notes IMDb. Susan Maughlin Wood is a composer and filmmaker based in Seattle, Washington.

Film Synopsis

Coastal Fire: A Common Diary is a documentary that chronicles the daily experiences of Ukrainian civilians and defenders during the 2022 invasion. Using a diary-style format, the film blends interviews, on-the-ground footage, and personal reflections to create a mosaic of lived reality. Through these individual accounts, the documentary reveals the emotional landscape of life under conflict — from fear and uncertainty to resilience and collective solidarity. It serves as both historical record and tribute to human strength.

Director’s Statement

Susan Maughlin Wood characterizes the film as a "conduit of passion projects with lasting political relevance". Her creative intent was to move beyond traditional documentary storytelling to create a sensory experience what she terms "documusic" where the score and visual elements together capture the "cyclical darkness" and the search for "hope amidst the cyclical darkness of winter". 

Awards & Recognition

• International Recognition: The film has been internationally recognized and awarded at various film festivals.

• Film Festival Awardee: Specifically cited as a "film festival awardee" in professional profiles, alongside her other recognized works like Spectratta.

• Master of Music Influence: Wood’s background as a Master of Music in Film Composition and her role as Past President of the Seattle Composers Alliance have contributed to the film's distinct recognition for its atmospheric and political depth