Filmmaker Aims to Decode Misinformation with 'SPRINKLES' Short Film

Andrew Korzenik's educational program combines a film screening with a guided discussion on navigating today's media landscape.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:35pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic film reel icon repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the educational program's use of filmmaking to address the spread of misinformation.A pop art-inspired illustration captures the essence of filmmaker Andrew Korzenik's educational program, which uses the power of cinema to tackle the complex issue of media misinformation.Chicago Today

Filmmaker Andrew Korzenik has created a 90-minute educational program called 'SPRINKLES' Decoded that uses his short film 'SPRINKLES' as a starting point to encourage critical thinking about misinformation, alternative media, and conspiracy theories. The program, which includes a film screening followed by a moderated discussion, is designed to help audiences, particularly younger viewers, better evaluate the information they consume online.

Why it matters

As trust in traditional media has declined and more people turn to online platforms for news and information, the spread of misinformation and conspiracy-driven narratives has become an increasing concern. Korzenik's program aims to equip audiences with the tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex media environment and prevent people from falling down the rabbit hole of misinformation.

The details

Korzenik, a former Marblehead resident now based in Chicago, created 'SPRINKLES' Decoded as an extension of his background in documentary-style theater. The program begins with a 25-minute screening of the film 'SPRINKLES,' a black-and-white noir-inspired thriller set in a donut shop. This is followed by a moderated discussion that explores how alternative media operates and how individuals can evaluate the information they consume, with a focus on the difference between journalism and opinion-based content.

  • Korzenik originally intended the film as a reflection on the end of the 'post-fact era,' but as production stretched on, it became clear that misinformation and conspiracy-driven narratives were not fading but intensifying.
  • The 'SPRINKLES' Decoded program is currently being offered to a wide range of audiences, including schools and community groups.

The players

Andrew Korzenik

Filmmaker, director, and co-founder of Artist's Web Productions, who created the 'SPRINKLES' Decoded program.

Artist's Web Productions

The production company co-founded by Andrew Korzenik that created the 'SPRINKLES' Decoded program.

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What they’re saying

“Art can be an educational tool and can deal with difficult subject matter in a way that's accessible.”

— Andrew Korzenik, Filmmaker

“It felt like a call to action.”

— Andrew Korzenik, Filmmaker

“We're all vulnerable. Even people who think they're on a fact-finding journey.”

— Andrew Korzenik, Filmmaker

“Our goal is to prevent the next person from going down that path.”

— Andrew Korzenik, Filmmaker

“Everyone watches movies. It makes people more willing to engage.”

— Andrew Korzenik, Filmmaker

What’s next

Organizers hope to expand the 'SPRINKLES' Decoded program to more communities and eventually develop the project into a full-length feature film.

The takeaway

As misinformation continues to shape public discourse, Korzenik's 'SPRINKLES' Decoded program aims to equip audiences, particularly younger viewers, with the tools needed to critically evaluate the information they consume and navigate an increasingly complex media environment.