Marvin Zindler:
Eyewitness News
A Legendary Investigative Reporter. Tireless Consumer Advocate.
A Story Untold.
For decades, Marvin Zindler covered Houston as a radio personality, photographer and, eventually, as the face of local investigative journalism and consumer advocacy. We're crafting a cinematic exploration that will showcase his fearless attitude, tireless work ethic, indomitable spirit, and the mark he left on the media landscape in Texas.
about
The suits were loud. The hair was white. The sunglasses were blue. The voice was unforgettable.
For decades, Marvin Zindler was more than Houston’s most recognizable newsman—he was its moral conscience. From shutting down the infamous Chicken Ranch to calling out “Slime in the ice machine!” with a twinkle in his eye, Marvin turned investigative reporting into a Texas-sized spectacle.
Behind the catchphrases and the on-air theatrics was a man driven by compassion. Whether exposing corruption or championing a stranger’s cause, Marvin fought for justice with equal parts grit and showmanship.
Marvin Zindler: Eyewitness News is the first documentary to capture the full scope of his life—unveiling the fearless reporter, the relentless advocate, and the human being whose story has never been told on the big screen. Through rare archival footage, intimate interviews, and the voices of those whose lives he touched, this film goes beyond the headlines to reveal the heart of a Houston icon.
A reminder of the power of a microphone, and a testament to the idea that one person can change the story for thousands.
Meet the Team
Using evocative archival footage, immersive interviews, and narrative pacing, the documentary reflects Marvin’s tenacity and heart. Directed by Amanda Ashford and Erik Mauck, it brings cinematic storytelling to journalistic heritage
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A native Houstonian and Austin based Realtor. Amanda is a new documentary filmmaker with a passion for stories that challenge the status quo and celebrate unsung heroes. Growing up in Texas, Marvin Zindler's reports were a staple in her household. Zindler’s fearlessness and flamboyance inspired Amanda to pursue the kind of storytelling that speaks truth to power. She believes her background in research, in combination with the talents of the documentary team, puts her in a unique position to bring Marvin Zindler's story to life.
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Director, producer, cinematographer and editor based in Austin and has worked on both narrative and non-fiction projects for over 20 years. He was the Director of Photography for the Emmy-nominated documentary “Building the American Dream,” which aired nationally on PBS and screened at film festivals around the world. He also co-directed “Zombie Girl: The Movie,” which won the Spirit Award at the Slamdance Film Festival and was distributed by Drafthouse Films. Erik produced, shot and edited several short documentaries for the series “Arts in Context,” which aired for six seasons on Austin’s PBS affiliate KLRU. He works as a camera operator and editor for both traditional news outlets such as CNBC, CNN, NBC and Univision, as well as many not-for-profit organizations around Texas.
Contact Us
Partner: Institutions—museums, nonprofits, media outlets—can enrich the film’s reach and authenticity.
Share: Do you have stories or memories of Marvin? We’d love to hear them and include them in the narrative.
For press, institutional partnerships, archival access, or sharing your memories of Marvin, please reach out below — or email us at marvinzindlerdocumentary@gmail.com
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