Dan Goldberg’s Short Film Series Continues to Earn Recognition Across the Global Festival Circuit

Some projects stay with you long after production wraps. For Dan Goldberg, Belly Button: Mezcal is one of them.

Set against the backdrop of Oaxaca's mezcal culture, the documentary explores the people, traditions and craftsmanship behind a spirit that is deeply connected to community, heritage and identity. Rather than simply documenting a process, the film invites viewers into a world shaped by generations of knowledge, hard work and celebration.

Since its release, Belly Button: Mezcal has continued to resonate with audiences and festival juries around the world. The film has received Gold Telly Awards for Documentary and Videography & Cinematography, Silver Telly Awards for Original Score and the People's Telly in Film & Shorts, Best of the Festival honors from Paramount Film Festival Los Angeles, Best Documentary Short honors from the Independent Shorts Awards, Best Short Film from the New York International Film Awards, Best Story / Best of the Festival from the Hollywood Short Film Festival, and Best Cinematography recognition from the San Francisco International Film Awards. The documentary has also been recognized by the Taste Awards, earning nominations for Best Food Program (Online or Streaming), Best Ethnic Lifestyle Series or Program, and Best Mini Film or Documentary.

While the accolades span categories ranging from cinematography and editing to directing, music and documentary storytelling, they all point back to the same achievement: a film that connects with people on a human level. Through intimate visuals and a deep respect for its subject matter, Belly Button: Mezcal captures not only the craft of mezcal making, but also the relationships, traditions and sense of place that give it meaning.

For Dan, the recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the collaborative effort behind the project. From cinematographer Simon Reinert and the creative team to the families and communities who opened their doors, Belly Button: Mezcal is the result of many people coming together to tell a story worth preserving.