Rolling Stone Films Spotlights 1985 Hit “Oh Yeah” and Death Row Activist in DOC NYC 2025 Lineup

Rolling Stone Films will premiere two new short documentaries at the prestigious DOC NYC 2025 festival. The projects are “Oh Yeah,” a cultural deep-dive into the iconic 1985 song, and “The Spiritual Advisor,” a poignant portrait of a death row advocate. These screenings highlight the brand’s expanding commitment to diverse documentary storytelling.

The festival is a major platform for nonfiction cinema. According to Rolling Stone, this dual selection demonstrates the breadth of narratives their film division is now championing.

“Oh Yeah” Documentary Explores a One-Hit Wonder’s Enduring Legacy

“Oh Yeah” delves into the strange history of Yello’s eccentric track. The song became a smash after featuring in 1980s films like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Directed by Nick Canfield, the short has been selected for DOC NYC’s prestigious Short List.

The film includes interviews with actor Alan Ruck and musician Reggie Watts. Yello members Dieter Meier and Boris Blank also recount their surprise at the song’s lasting impact. It is set for a streaming release on November 25.

The track’s association with cinematic moments of rebellion and excess cemented its place in pop culture. Its distinctive sound continues to resonate with new audiences four decades later.

“The Spiritual Advisor” Offers a Glimpse Into Capital Punishment

The second film, “The Spiritual Advisor,” will have its world premiere on November 16. Directed by Joel Fendelman, it follows Reverend Jeff Hood. He provides spiritual counsel to inmates facing execution.

The documentary was inspired by a Rolling Stone article titled “The Last Face Death Row Inmates See.” It captures Hood’s urgent travel to Oklahoma in September 2024. There, he advocated for a stay of execution for a condemned man.

This project is slated for a wider release in Spring 2026. It represents a more journalistic and socially conscious arm of Rolling Stone Films.

The DOC NYC 2025 selections solidify Rolling Stone Films as a significant voice in documentary cinema. The lineup moves from pop culture nostalgia to profound human rights issues, showcasing a compelling and ambitious range.

Info at your fingertips

What is the song “Oh Yeah” most famous from?

Yello’s “Oh Yeah” is most famous for its key scene in the 1986 film Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. It also featured in The Secret of My Success. The track became an anthem for 1980s excess and comedy.

When can I stream the “Oh Yeah” documentary?

The “Oh Yeah” short film will be available to stream on November 25. It will be released on the Rolling Stone website and on Documentary+.

Who is Reverend Jeff Hood?

Reverend Jeff Hood is a spiritual advisor and activist who works with death row inmates. He provides counsel and presence during executions. His work is the subject of the new documentary The Spiritual Advisor.

What is DOC NYC?

DOC NYC is one of the largest and most prestigious documentary film festivals in the United States. It is held annually in New York City. The festival showcases a wide array of nonfiction films and shorts.

How many Rolling Stone Films projects are at DOC NYC?

Rolling Stone Films has two projects selected for the 2025 DOC NYC festival. They are the short films Oh Yeah and The Spiritual Advisor.