Documentary Week returns to the Film Center at the end of the month, showcasing six new films.

The festival is hosted by the Martha’s Vineyard Film Society and takes place July 27 to August 1.

Executive director Richard Paradise said that the film society hosts many documentary screenings throughout the year, but this particular week is focused on showcasing new films. Each screening will be followed by a Q&A with either the director or subject of the film.

“It’s an opportunity to really shine a light on the art form, to also have these great films that discuss really important issues and have that opportunity to have that discussion afterwards,” he said.

Mr. Paradise said the increase in popularity of documentary films has contributed to the growth of the event on the Island.

“There have been a lot more documentaries and a lot bigger documentaries over the past 12 years than there have been previously,” Mr. Paradise said.

When selecting films, he said the main goal is to have a diverse range of topics. Mr. Paradise also touched on intentionally choosing films that connect to the current political climate.

Ask E. Jean, directed by Ivy Meeropol, is about E. Jean Carroll, a journalist and author who successfully sued President Donald Trump for sexual abuse and defamation charges.

“It’s timely, it’s popular, and she’s well known, so I expect that to sell out,” Mr. Paradise said.

Day two of Documentary Week will feature When a Witness Recants, directed by Island filmmaker Dawn Porter. The film follows author and executive producer Ta-Nehisi Coates as he retells the story of three boys wrongfully accused and convicted of a 1983 murder in Baltimore and the impact it had on him growing up in that area. Mr. Coates will join Ms. Porter on stage afterwards to discuss the documentary.

Mr. Paradise said he tries to choose documentaries that have a connection to the Island.

“We want the audience to be able to appreciate the filmmakers and vice versa,” he said. “We try to find films that are relevant, timely subjects. Something that has some relationship or relevance to Martha’s Vineyard is always a key component, though not always a possibility.”