2023 ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES CREATIVE CONFERENCE PROGRAMMING FOR 47TH ANNUAL EVENT
ATLANTA, GA (April 4, 2023) — Today, the 47th annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) announced its lineup of Creative Conference panels, workshops, and conversations that will take place from April 25 - April 28, 2023, from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm each day. This will be the 13th year that ATLFF has curated a robust lineup of educational programming, known as the Creative Conference, as part of the annual film festival.
The educational workshops, panels, and conversations taking place virtually and in person from April 25 - April 28 will feature industry experts from across the country
ATLANTA, GA (April 4, 2023) — Today, the 47th annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) announced its lineup of Creative Conference panels, workshops, and conversations that will take place from April 25 - April 28, 2023, from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm each day. This will be the 13th year that ATLFF has curated a robust lineup of educational programming, known as the Creative Conference, as part of the annual film festival. This year, the Creative Conference will offer more than 25 in-person panel discussions, as well as 8 virtual panels and in-depth conversations with industry experts from Atlanta to Los Angeles.
The Creative Conference serves to educate, entertain, engage, and enlighten festival-goers by pulling back the curtain on film and television production, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at how projects get made. While covering a wide range of topics, this year’s programming will focus on community, craft, and the future of filmmaking.
“We are so excited to bring the Creative Conference 100% back in person after 3 years primarily on Zoom,” said Linda Burns, a 30-year industry veteran and Creative Conference Director. “Although we loved the intimacy of Zoom conversations on the craft of filmmaking, we’ve really missed the connections made in person between our panelists and audience, and between audience members. We look forward to continuing to build community and craft, offer networking and educational events, and push forward the future of filmmaking together with our amazing panelists, filmmakers, and film lovers.”
Panels will feature revealing conversations with some of the most admired and sought-after artists in their respective fields. Most notably, two-time Emmy® winning, Oscar® nominated producer Lydia Dean Pilcher joins producer Suzanne Satterfield (“Mega Dens”) in an in person conversation focused on global culture and multicultural storytelling. Pilcher has produced over 40 feature films for auteur directors including “Queen of Katwe,” “Cutie & The Boxer,” and “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.” Highlights for the virtual panels include a discussion between Emmy® nominated director, writer, and producer Craig Zobel (“Mare of Easttown,” “The Hunt”) and cinematographer Darran Tiernan (“The Hunt,” “Perry Mason”) on the working relationship between director and cinematographer, how they met and built trust, and their current collaboration on HBO’s “The Penguin,” starring Colin Farrell. Additionally, President and CEO of BobbCat Films and former EVP of Tyler Perry Studios Roger Bobb joins director Rob Hardy for a 1-on-1 conversation about his career in producing and directing that spans nearly two decades.
As with the lineup of 155 selected works and Marquee screenings, the 2023 Creative Conference programming will highlight underrepresented filmmakers and stories. Panel topics that will explore Development and Pitching, Building an Audience and a Community, Screenwriting, Directing, Cinematography, Producing Using AI, Shooting in Virtual Worlds, Improv for Creatives, The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion, Tips & Resources for Emerging Filmmakers, Post-Production, Crowdfunding, and Roundtable Discussions with Georgia Filmmakers and Screenwriters in Competition.
TV and Film credits for additional Creative Conference speakers include: “Atlanta,” “A Jazzman’s Blues,” “Naomi,” “The Underground Railroad,” “Pitch Perfect 3,” “The Devil to Pay,” “Archer,” “Aqua Teen Hunger Force,” “The Walking Dead,” “Stranger Things,” “Black Lightning,” “Greenleaf,” “Hightown,” “Inside Man,” “How to Get Away With Murder,” “Father of the Bride,” “Ozark,” “Boss Level,” “Avengers: Endgame and Infinity War,” “Baby Driver,” “Stargirl,” “Doom Patrol,” “Power,” “The Leftovers,” “The Lincoln Lawyer,” “Star Trek: Picard and Discovery,” “Blindspotting,” “Teenage Bounty Hunters,” “For Colored Girls,” “Mythic Quest,” “Why Did I Get Married II,” “The Blacklist,” “Chicago Med,” “Chicago PD,” “Chicago Fire,” “Valor,” “Being Mary Jane,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Queen Sugar,” “MacGyver,” “Solace,” “I,Tonya,” “Coming 2 America,” “Cobra Kai,” “Legacies,” “Halt and Catch Fire,” “The Right Stuff,” “P-Valley,” “Rise,” “Gotham Knights,” and “This is Us,” among others.
All Creative Conference content, other than in-person panels, will be available for streaming worldwide during the entire 10 days of the festival. In-person panels will not be offered virtually. Festival badges are on sale now at www.AtlantaFilmFestival.com. Creative Conference individual virtual and in-person event tickets are currently $12-$15 or $85 for unlimited virtual access. Badge prices will increase on April 18, 2023.
The full list of programming for this year’s Creative Conference can be found below. As previously announced, ATLFF’s 2023 lineup of 155 selected works, presented in person or virtually, can be found on the festival’s website here.
Applications for press credentials for ATLFF 2023 are now open and can be submitted here. Press materials and assets, including past press releases, logos, and film stills can be found here.
2023 Creative Conference Lineup
IN PERSON PANELS
Building Your Own Industry with the Three C's: Craft, Community and Conversations - a Discussion with The Heartbeat Film Podcast
What are the 3 C's to help a community grow and build your industry along with it?
Craft: Developing your own unique voice through intentional, artistic practice.
Community: The art of cultivating your tribe of collaborators and supporters.
Conversation: Creating your own grassroots platforms for sharing and exhibiting your work while generating meaningful and continuous conversation within your community.
Whether you don’t know where to begin or are trying to decide the next move, the answer always comes back to leaning on your own industry. Sit down with writers, directors and producers Chris Anthony Hamilton, Janlatae' Mullins and Harim Leon as they discuss a topic near and dear to their heart - building your own table and cultivating a community to do it with.
Panelists:
Writer, Director, DP Chris Anthony Hamilton
Writer, Producer, Director Janlatae' Mullins
Executive Producer Harim Leon - Red Baron Digital LLC
Pilots and Shorts from Georgia in the Screenwriting Competition Finals
Join the Georgia shorts and pilots screenwriting finalists to learn about their projects, what drove them to tell these stories, their process as screenwriters, and what it means to be a finalist in the competition.
Moderator: Screenwriter & Atlanta Film Chat Podcast Producer Chuck Thomas
Panelists:
Screenwriter Faith Dismuke - I See You - Short
Screenwriter Michael Mau - Left & Leaving - Short
Screenwriter Jon Carr - Black Nerd - Pilot
Screenwriter Landon Ashworth - The Space Suits - Pilot
Sex, Guns, and Kids: How Not to Get Shut Down - Sponsored by SAGIndie.org and IATSE 479
Indie filmmakers using SAG-AFTRA talent for the first time or for the first time with sex, guns, or kids may not know all the rules, and then get themselves into trouble with the unions. Learn how intimacy coordinators can help your sex scenes stay steamy while keeping everyone safe, the importance of armorers and the rules around gun safety on set, and the hours children of all ages are allowed to work, take breaks, and get an education.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director & PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
Actress, Intimacy Coordinator Kristina Arjona - SAG-AFTRA
Armorer, Special Effects Coordinator Lisa Reynolds - IATSE 479 & Bob Shelleys' Special Effects
Susan Moss - SAG-AFTRA Sr. Regional Set Relations Representative
Features from Georgia in the Screenwriting Competition Finals
Join the Georgia feature screenwriting finalists to learn about their projects, what drove them to tell these stories, their process as screenwriters, and what it means to be a finalist in the competition.
Moderator: Writer, Producer, Director Carrie Schrader
Panelists:
Screenwriters Brendan Vogel & Ruth Sabin - The Shimmers
Screenwriter Dmani Williams - Chance by Unfathomable Fate
Screenwriter Jon Vaude - Freaknik
Screenwriter Nathan Cabaniss - Shooting
Development, the Pitch, and the Package with Crazy Legs Productions
Executives at Crazy Legs Productions dive into the development process and pitch packages for projects at networks, studios, and streamers. Whether you’re pitching reality TV, docu-series, or feature films, this discussion will educate you on the process of developing your ideas into the perfect pitch, what to expect when pitching your ideas, and how to pivot when your pitch doesn’t land.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director & PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
CEO & Executive Producer Tom Cappello
VP of Development Alana Goldstein
Director of Feature Development Marie Halliday
Georgia Narrative and Documentary Shorts Roundtable - 1 of 3
First of three short film panels featuring the directors of these Georgia-tied short films playing in the festival. See their trailers, hear their production stories, what led them to tell this story, and their journeys as filmmakers.
Moderator: Writer, Director, Actor Robyn Hicks
Panelists:
Director Ivan Rome - TikTok Challenged - Narrative
Director Juanita Umaña - One Yes the Other No - Narrative
Director Hannah Patterson - Late to the Party - Narrative
Director Evelyn Lorena - Gabriela - Narrative
Director Shaun Maclean - Chipper - Narrative
The Virtual Production Pipeline & the Future of Content Production
Virtual production from start to finish. Nick, Joshua, and Justin provide a comprehensive overview of the virtual production pipeline: From creating 3D virtual locations to technical components involved to capturing live-action footage on an LED Volume - in this talk, you’ll learn about the best ways of incorporating this innovative technology into your filmmaking toolkit.
Panelists:
Co-Founder Nick Rivero - Meptik
Senior Interactive Designer Joshua Eason - Meptik
Technical Director Justin Wylie - Arc Studios
On Screenwriting
Whether you’re writing shorts, features, or TV shows, on spec as indie filmmakers, paid screenwriters, or in a writer’s rooms, this panel will share their expertise and passion for screenwriting, along with tips for emerging filmmakers.
Moderator: Writer, Producer, Director Carrie Schrader
Panelists:
Screenwriter, Producer, Director Lane Skye
Screenwriter, Producer, Director Ruckus Skye
And more!
Improv Reshapes Your Creativity
Improv is not just about funny shows or jokes in the moment. It can completely reshape your approach to your creative projects. This panel discussion brings together incredible film and television actors to talk about how their improv background has translated to the professional projects they are currently working on. Applying the principles of improv at the beginning of any creative project or using it as the foundation for how your creative team works together will allow you to develop truly unique work that feels like something your entire team has created together. This is the perfect panel for anyone looking to find a new approach to writing, acting, and directing.
Moderator: Jon Carr - Vaguely Specific Productions
Panelists:
Actress, Producer Amber Nash
Actress, Producer, Writer Karen Ceesay
Actor, Producer Atkins Estimond
AI for Producing
The rise of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry is not just a story about technological progress – it's a story about power. Artificial Intelligence is the single biggest thing to happen to the entertainment industry since the invention of the camera. No, it will not take your job, but the people who know how to use it will. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into the filmmaking process, those who hold the keys to its operation will have an unparalleled advantage in creating movies that capture audiences' imaginations. Producer Harim Leon will explore the implications of this power shift - the future of filmmaking - showing how professional and aspiring filmmakers can leverage AI to bring their visions to life and how AI will reshape the way we create and consume movies.
Panelist:
Executive Producer Harim Leon - Red Baron Digital LLC
Streamlining Post: What Indie Filmmakers Need to Know
Join different members of a post production process to learn what indie filmmakers need to know as they move from editing their own projects to needing an editor, sound editor, post sup, music, and more.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director & PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
Partner & Post Producer Drew Sawyer - Moonshine Post Production
Composer Evan Hodges
And more!
Jumpstarting Your Career: Tips and Resources for Emerging Filmmakers
Join us for an in-depth conversation with RE:IMAGINE, student filmmakers, and industry partners about the many opportunities to jumpstart an early filmmakers' journey and career and how you can prepare while still in high school or as a recent graduate. We will discuss finding and getting connected to local artist opportunities, preparing for future film production experiences, understanding the industry at large for minors, networking and more.
RE:IMAGINE trains, equips, and inspires Generation Z (ages 11 - 24) to build careers in the creative and digital media industries.
Moderator: Coming Soon!
Panelists: Coming Soon!
Georgia Narrative and Documentary Shorts Roundtable - 2 of 3
Second of the three short film panels featuring the directors of these Georgia-tied short films. See their trailers, hear their production stories, what led them to tell this story, and their journeys as filmmakers.
Moderator: Actress & Producer Viviana Chavez
Panelists:
Director Adam Rioux - Roaming Dawn - Narrative
Director David Nixon Jr. - Lumps - Narrative
Director Rozalyn Mattocks - Kid Free Weekend - Narrative
Director Brandi Stevens - Impression - Narrative
Director Kelvin Summerhill - Black Butterfly - Narrative
The Business Side of Filmmaking
The terminology of the business side of filmmaking can be confusing and misleading. Join us for a conversation about the process and definitions involved with debt financing, development and creative services, and post and distribution. Learn what Buffalo 8 and their parent company offer, and why they opened shop in Georgia.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director & PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelist:
Head of Production & Services - Adam Harris Englehard - Buffalo 8
Georgia Narrative and Documentary Shorts Roundtable - 3 of 3
Third of the three short film panels featuring the directors/producers of these Georgia-tied short films. See their trailers, hear their production stories, what led them to tell this story, and their journeys as filmmakers.
Moderator: Director, Writer, Producer Jen West
Panelists:
Co-Directors Jonathan Banks & Dr. Arshley Emile - Young Kings - Documentary
Writer/Producer Alex - Would You Still Love Me - Narrative (Director Ramsey Telhami not in attendance)
Tri-Directors Sean Famoso, Dennis Williams & Gladimir Gelin - RACE - Narrative
Co-Directors Linnea Frye & Adam Pinney - Lily's Mirror - Narrative
Director Brian Lonano CONTENT: The Lo-Fi Man - Narrative (Co-Director Blake Myers not in attendance)
On Directing - Sponsored by the MPAA
Directors from three different career paths share their experiences directing indies, documentary and narrative features, and television shows, and how the experiences differ. They’ll share their knowledge and expertise working in the different mediums, providing tips for surviving working with studios, networks, and streamers.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director and PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
Director, Writer, Producer Angela Barnes
Director, Writer, Producer Takashi Doscher
Director, Writer, Producer Carrie Schrader
Making It and Keepin’ It Real with Ideas United
An in-depth conversation with filmmakers who have “made it”, and the foundational lessons they’ve learned along the way through pivotal career-changing decisions. From learning to take advantage of opportunities when they come, making authentic connections, and staying humble as you grow. Audience members will be tasked with making their own “next big decision”: share that script, increase your rates, call that person. Whatever that next big move is in their career, attendees will leave this session invigorated.
Moderator: Community Lead at Ideas United, Vi Andrews
Panelists:
Writer, Director, Set Dresser Sedrick Lakpa
Editor Kristina Kromer - Moonshine Post-Production
Director & CEO Valerie Hinkle - Prominence Films
VP of Production Abe Mohammadione - Ideas United
Film Impact Georgia’s Filmmaker Grant Winners
Recipients talk about their projects, winning the filmmaker grant, and how that propelled their projects forward. Since 2019, Film Impact Georgia has awarded $35,000 in grants across 7 cycles. Working with partners and board members, FIG has connected the winning filmmakers with mentors that could assist with film festival strategy, marketing, post-production, securing locations and more.
Moderator: Melissa Simpson
Panelists:
Ines Michelena - ANGIE - Fall 2019
Lev Omelchenko - A Song for Echo - Spring 2020
Andrew J. Lee - A Sparrow Cries At Night - Fall 2020
Jeremy Thao - Woman - Spring 2021
Shandrea Evans - Bloom - Fall 2021
Hannah Patterson - Late to the Party - Spring 2022
Erika Miranda - Trailer Trash Magic - Fall 2022
Development, the Pitch and the Package with Pictures Window Productions and Doghouse Pictures
Executives at Picture Window Productions and Doghouse Pictures dive into the development process and pitch packages for projects at networks, studios, and podcasting companies. From environmental docuseries and podcasts to feature films and television shows, this discussion will educate you on the process of developing your ideas into the perfect pitch, and how to think outside the box when your IP falls into development hell.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director and PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
Producer, Director, Writer Suzan Satterfield
Producer, Writer Jeff Keating
Creating Opportunities for Creators in Georgia - Sponsored by People Store
For years, the only representation you could get in Georgia was for actors. But things are finally starting to change…meet literary and crew talent agency reps who will break down what they look for, how to find representation, what you need to bring to the table, what you can expect, and what agents do for you.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director and PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
Coming Soon!
Seed&Spark - Crowdfunding to Build Independence
Seed&Spark has the highest crowdfunding campaign success rate of any funding platform in the world, and they will share 100% of the information you need to build a successful campaign, as well as a career-long action plan most likely to create a lasting, flourishing, direct relationship with your audience. You’ll learn how to find and activate your audience, structure your crowdfunding campaign and pitch video, pick the right goal and incentives, and much more beyond marketing the campaign itself. Because after all, it isn’t just about crowdfunding: it’s about career building. Your career starts here!
Panelist:
Founder & CEO - Emily Best - Seed&Spark
Feature Filmmakers from Georgia-tied Films in the ATLFF - Sponsored by Popflick
Lead Programmer Jon Kieran sits down with the directors of the Georgia-tied feature films playing in the festival to discuss their process, their stories, and their journey to directing.
Moderator: Programming Director Jon Kieran
Panelist:
Director Kayla Johnson - Fenom
Director Lev Omelchenko - Twenty
Director Bryan Tan - She Watches Blindly
Co-Directors Jordan Bellamy & Josh Gilligan - Ship Happens
Director Matthew Hashiguchi - The Only Doctor
Director Geoff Marslett - Quantum Cowboys
Changing the Climate: How to Weave Cultural, Social, and Environmental Narratives into Your Storytelling: A Conversation with Lydia Dean Pilcher
Lydia is a two time Emmy® winning, Oscar® nominated producer and founder of NYC production company Cine Mosaic. Focusing on global culture and multicultural storytelling, Pilcher has produced over 40 feature films for auteur directors including “Queen of Katwe,” “Cutie & The Boxer,” and “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.” Her director credits include WWII spy thriller, A CALL TO SPY, and the climate narratives RADIUM GIRLS and science fiction film, HOMING INSTINCT. As Co-founder of Producers Guild of America’s, PGA Green and GreenProductionGuide.com, she has been an ambassador for sustainability in entertainment for more than 15 years. She co-leads the WGA/PGA Interguild Climate Storytelling Initiative and Co-Chairs the Directors Guild of America Sustainable Future Committee.
Moderator: Producer, Director, Writer - Suzan Satterfield
Panelist:
Producer, Director, Writer - Lydia Dean Pilcher
Meet the Atlanta Film Festival Programmers - Sponsored by Popflick
Meet our Programming Director Jon Kieran, Programmers Astin Rocks and Jennica Carmona, and Senior Programmer for the Screenplay Competition Brian Grady. They’ll share the process for entry, their process for choosing films, what they love about their jobs, and tips for filmmakers looking to submit next year.
Moderator: Creative Conference Director and PGA Producer Linda Burns
Panelist:
Programming Director Jon Kieran
Programmers Astin Rocks and Jennica Carmona
Senior Programmer for the Screenplay Competition Brian Grady
Building a Thriving Georgia Film Community
Artists and activists discuss how we can work together across disciplines to build sustainable and lasting careers individually and collectively.
Moderator: Founder & CEO Emily Best - Seed&Spark
Panelists:
Culture Curator & Co-Founder Bem Joiner - Atlanta Influences Everything
Actress Bethany Ann Lind - SAG-AFTRA
Executive Director Charles Judson - Film Impact Georgia
Producer Terrence Battle
VIRTUAL PANELS
On Producing & Directing - A Conversation with Roger Bobb
Roger Bobb is the President and CEO of BobbCat Films, a film and television production company based in Atlanta. Prior to that, he served as Executive Vice President of Tyler Perry Studios for 8 years. He's a former DGA trainee, was the youngest African-American 1st AD in New York, has won 8 NAACP Image Awards and is the only 2 time Best Picture winner at the ABFF (American Black Film Festival). His producing credits include “For Colored Girls”, “Why Did I Get Married II’,
“Madea’s Big Happy Family” and seven other Tyler Perry films for a combined gross of over half a billion dollars. His television films include “Same Time Next Christmas” (ABC), “Life Size-2” (Freeform), “Bad Dad Rehab (TV One)”, “Let The Church Say Amen” (BET) to name a few. Bobb also works as a director, with over 15 television movie credits in the last 3 years.
Moderator: Director, Producer Rob Hardy
Panelist: Producer, Director Roger Bobb
The Director - Cinematographer Relationship
Writer, Producer, Director Craig Zobel discusses the relationship between the Director and Director of Photography with his long-time collaborator Cinematographer Darran Tiernan. They’re currently in pre-production for The Penguin starring Colin Farrell for HBO, but worked together on The Hunt, One Dollar, and Westworld, after meeting on American Gods.
Moderator: Writer, Producer, Director Craig Zobel
Panelist: Director of Photography Darran Tiernan
Directing for Television
This panel features directors with credits on Atlanta, Blindspotting, Teenage Bounty Hunters, Loot, Killing It, Mythic Quest, So Help Me Todd, The Blacklist, The Watchful Eye, Big Shot, Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, Gray’s Anatomy, Queen Sugar, Solace, Cherish the Day, The Recruit, The Midnight Club, In the Dark, and This is Us. That’s a lot of experience and knowledge to share. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation on all things directing for television.
Moderator: Director, Writer, Producer Angela Barnes
Panelists:
Director, Writer, Producer Daniel Willis
Director, Producer Tchaiko Omawale
Director, Writer, Producer Kay Oyegun
Director, Writer, Editor Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour
Creating Character Driven Stories - A Conversation with Screenwriter Scott Myers
A member of the Writers’ Guild of America West since 1987, Scott Myers has written over 30 movie and TV projects at every major Hollywood studio and broadcast network. He was an executive producer at Trailblazer Studios, overseeing the company’s original content development for TV including the Scripps and Discovery networks. He has taught in the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program, receiving its Outstanding Instructor Award in 2005, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and since 2008 has hosted GoIntoTheStory.com, the official screenwriting blog of the Black List. He joined the faculty at DePaul’s School of Cinematic Arts in the fall 2016. Scott graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Arts degree (with Honors) in Religious Studies and Yale University, where he received a Masters of Divinity degree cum laude.
Moderators: Co-Writers Lane Skye and Ruckus Skye
Panelist:
Screenwriter and Assistant Professor of Screenwriting Scott Myers
Cinematography and Zeiss Lenses
Join Zeiss rep Tony Wisniewski as he discussed all things lenses with working professionals in the camera department from Photographers to Steadi-cam Ops to Directors of Photography for commercials, television, and film.
Moderator: Tony Wisniewski - Zeiss
Panelist:
Photographer Tracy Page
Cinematographer Cliff Charles
Cinematographer Hilda Mercado
Cinematographer, Steadi-Cam Op Alfeo Dixon
Cinematographer Jose Alejandro Acosta
Representation in the Latinx Community
Join Latinas in Media Atlanta for a panel discussion on the importance of representation in media - where inclusion stands now, what we can do to improve it, and what the future holds.
Moderator: Producer, Actress Denise Santos
Panelists:
Producer, Actress Mahalia Latortue-Pridgett
Producer, Actress Erika Miranda
Writer, Director, Producer Erik Francisco Medina
Producer, Director, Actress Caitlin Hargraves
Screenwriting, The Writers Room, and the Script Doctor
From the writers room to crafting a feature to working with a script doctor, this conversation will cover a range of topics to help aspiring screenwriters understand the process as well as the collaborative nature of writing a screenplay.
Panelists:
CEO & Head Consultant Shannon E Johnson - The Professional Pen
Producer, Actor, Writer Mavro Diamonti
Producer, Director, Actor, Writer Harrison Chandler
Prepping Your Project
Tune into this powerhouse panel to learn how much work is involved to get a job as a department head. And once you get the job, what each department does in prep and why, along with how proper preparation translates to a better production. And yes, it’s really 2.5 hours long. There was a lot to discuss!
Moderator: Creative Conference Director & Producer Linda Burns
Panelists:
1st AD Jerry Pece - DGA
Location Manager David Luse - IATSE
Cinematographer, Camera Operator Angelica Perez-Castro - IATSE 600
Production Designer Ina Mayhew - Production Designers Guild
Director Lauren Petzke - DGA
ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING FOR 2021 CREATIVE CONFERENCE
ATLANTA, GA (March 23, 2021) — The Atlanta Film Festival + Creative Conference (ATLFF) announced its lineup of 2021 Creative Conference events today. This will be the 11th annual Creative Conference, ATLFF’s educational programming, and will take place as part of the 45th annual festival from April 22 – May 2, 2021.
ATLANTA, GA (March 23, 2021) — The Atlanta Film Festival + Creative Conference (ATLFF) announced its lineup of 2021 Creative Conference events today. This will be the 11th annual Creative Conference, ATLFF’s educational programming, and will take place as part of the 45th annual festival from April 22 – May 2, 2021. Today’s announcement comprises 3 headlining Masterclasses, 13 one-on-one conversations and 7 roundtables featuring some of the most well-respected names in the entertainment industry from around the country.
The Creative Conference serves to educate, entertain and enlighten by pulling back the curtain on film and television production to give the ATLFF audience a peek behind the scenes at how projects get made and by whom. The topics of these informative sessions, which will all be presented virtually via Eventive, will include writing, showrunning, producing, directing, cinematography, acting, sound recording, lighting, composing, podcasting, LED virtual stages, distribution, props, stunt work and more.
"One of the positives of this last year, for the Creative Conference, is our all-virtual format. The freedom to pre-record conversations has allowed otherwise impossible to get professionals from around the country to share their personal experience, career advice and industry knowledge. This virtual format also allows anyone from anywhere in the world to access our programming, and we couldn't be more excited to engage and empower artists and audiences in this new way,” said Linda Burns, a 30-year industry veteran and Creative Conference programmer.
The three Masterclasses will feature revealing conversations with some of the most admired and sought-after artists in their respective fields. Wayne White, a three-time Emmy-winning artist and subject of the documentary “Beauty is Embarrassing,” will divulge to local puppeteer, filmmaker, and fabricator Sam Carter, where he finds inspiration, what gets him out of bed every day and what responsibility he thinks artists have as creators and mentors.
Ty Franck, Hugo Award-winning author, Executive Producer and Co-Creator of the hit Amazon Prime show “The Expanse,” will sit down with Georgia filmmaker Raymond Carr to discuss the show’s journey – from tabletop role-playing game to award-winning novel series and eventually to its current stellar television show about to begin its sixth season.
Finally, Daveed Diggs (Hamilton, The Little Mermaid, Snowpiercer, Soul) and Rafael Casal (The Good Lord Bird, Are You Afraid of the Dark, Bad Education, Def Poetry), co-writers and co-stars of the 2018 film “Blindspotting,” will talk about the film’s inspiration and upcoming TV adaptation with one of the show’s directors, Atlanta-based Angela Barnes. They will also dive into the origins of their friendship in high school, their collaborative process and challenges they’ve faced throughout their careers.
In addition to the Masterclasses, ATLFF will expand on the industry knowledge presented during the Creative Conference with 13 one-on-one discussions and 7 roundtables covering a vast array of topics. Panelist credits for this year’s lineup include: “WandaVision,” “Dexter,” “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” “The Walking Dead,” “Criminal Minds,” “Stranger Things,” “Ozark,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Black Panther,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “The Gifted,” “Watchmen,” “Harriet,” and many more celebrated television series and films.
In an additional Creative Conference element new for 2021, local independent filmmakers will moderate another 15+ panel discussions with filmmakers from around the world who were accepted into this year’s festival in the documentary, animation, narrative, and experimental short categories, as well as the episodic, music video, and virtual reality programs. The exact details and participants on these panels will be announced closer to the festival.
“Casual conversations revolving around the art and business of filmmaking between Atlanta-based professionals and their friends and colleagues offer virtual festival goers a unique and much more intimate experience than ever before. In addition, local indie filmmakers moderating roundtables with some of the directors accepted into our festival program gives these creatives from across the globe the chance to interact and connect with one another when in-person networking isn’t an option,” Burns added.
Previous Creative Conference Masterclass hosts have included actors William H. Macy, James Franco, Amber Nash and Romany Malco; a panel of producers from Pinewood Atlanta Studios and Marvel Studios; filmmakers and showrunners Damon Lindelof, Jason Reitman, James Ponsoldt, Victor Nunez and Tom Luse; and Broadway veteran Schuler Hensley.
The 2019 Atlanta Film Festival Recap
An entire month’s passed since the 43rd annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) brought together nearly 30,000 passionate filmmakers and cinephiles for 11 days of cultural discovery, artistic growth and opportunity.
An entire month’s passed since the 43rd annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) brought together nearly 30,000 passionate filmmakers and cinephiles for 11 days of cultural discovery, artistic growth and opportunity. We gathered everywhere from the beautiful, sunlit fields of the BeltLine to the familiar comfort of the historic Plaza Theatre and enjoyed everything from creative films and shorts to groundbreaking experimental media, music videos and insightful discussions led by filmmakers from all over the world. The sheer number of things happening at any given moment forced attendees to pick and choose which events to attend at the cost of missing others.
For those who want to relive the festival or simply missed out, here are some ATLFF ‘19 highlights.
It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
The Plaza Theatre celebrates Georgian filmmakers.
Georgia’s tax incentive may bring big-name, big-budget productions to our burgeoning Peach State, but our indigenous filmmaking community continues to create films worthy of acclaim. Of the record-setting 8,000+ films and screenplays submitted to this year’s festival, works created by Georgia filmmakers ranked among the finest. We were thrilled to showcase them during ‘It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,’ a block comprised entirely of short films created by Georgian filmmakers.
Filled with narrative, documentary, and animated films that left the entire Plaza Theatre enraptured, engaged, and inspired, the shorts were so great we watched them twice!
Opening Night Presentation: THE FAREWELL
Lulu Wang (left) and Nora “Awkafina“ Lum (right) walk the red carpet.
If local filmmakers kicked off the festival, then writer/director Lulu Wang shifted the event into high gear. Anticipation for the opening night screening of THE FAREWELL built steadily as both Wang and lead actress Awkwafina made red carpet appearances.
Wang and Awkwafina introduce The Farewell.
Lulu Wang and Awkwafina jump onstage afterwards for a Q&A.
After the iconic duo excitingly introduced the movie, THE FAREWELL immediately grasped the entire audience with its beautiful cinematography. However, the narrative was what truly kept us engrossed in the film throughout its 98 minute runtime. By juggling relatable themes of identity and cultural heritage with humor and wit, the film provided an authentic glimpse into a Chinese family's unique struggle to cope with the impending loss of a beloved family member.
Wang and Awkwafina returned to the stage after the film’s conclusion for an insightful Q&A; Wang divulged how her family inspired the film, and Awkwafina shared her on set experience with the crowd.
Georgia Film Award Winning Film: RECKONING
It was only the third day of the festival and the streets of Ponce and Highland came to halt when filmmakers Ruckus and Lane Skye graced the Plaza Theatre with their feature film, RECKONING. The line wrapped around the building with audience members lining up for the film hours before the start of the film. Ruckus and Lane along with the cast of the film arrived smoothly, just in time for some red carpet photos and interviews. Georgia is definitely proud to be the home of such talented and humble filmmakers.
Lane and Ruckus Skye bring the cast of RECKONING to ATLFF.
Joe Berlinger Wins Inaugural Originator Award
Joe Berlinger visits the red carpet.
Following up immediately after RECKONING, Joe Berlinger dropped in for an appearance. Before screening his new film, EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE, ATLFF presented its first ever Originator Award to director Joe Berlinger. With an illustrious filmography including the lauded and catalytic PARADISE LOST, the award celebrates Berlinger’s career in the spirit of originators like Burt Reynolds, Jermaine Dupri, and Tyler Perry--those who set out to do things unlike anything anyone’s ever done before. Humbly accepting the award, Berlinger unveiled his love for Atlanta and eventually dedicated the award to the late Bruce Sinofsky, with whom he managed to change the face of documentary filmmaking.
You can stream EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL, AND VILE on Netflix here.
Creative Conference
Jen West (left most) talks directing with documentarians (left to right) Tim O’Donnell, Kristian Melom, Giovanna Giovanini, and James Martin.
Because there are so many factors and moving parts within the filmmaking process, there is always something new to learn. Creative Conference kicked off bright and early, Monday morning. Individuals looking to hone their craft at ATLFF ‘19 looked no further than the Creative Conference. Comprised of 40 educational events designed to disperse knowledge from the industry’s professionals to the aspiring filmmaker throughout the week, the conference covered nearly every stage of the process.
Linda Burns (left) and Tom Luse (right) share a conversation.
Through free-flowing conversations with actors, directors, and producers who’ve found success and panels supplying professional insight, we improved everything from our projects’ initial stories and pitches to their eventual licensing and distribution. The week was filled with gems from local filmmakers to Oscar and Emmy award winning producers.
The Satanic Temple Visits ATLFF
It’s not everyday you’re presented the opportunity to learn about the Satanic Temple from Satanists themselves, but this Wednesday was the day! HAIL SATAN?!, a delightfully off-kilter documentary feature by acclaimed documentarian Penny Lane, explores one of, if not the most controversial religious movements in American history. In chronicling the rise of the widely misunderstood Satanic Temple, the film sheds light on the religion’s true cause and noble intentions. Lane characterizes the Temple by characterizing its members, specifically Lucien Greaves. Greaves’ made-for-camera personality and Lane’s emphasis of irony inject the film with a humor that left the entire audience with split sides. However, the night didn’t end when the film did; once the credits rolled, members of the front row introduced themselves as part of the Atlanta Chapter of The Satanic Temple! Three stepped onto the Dad’s Garage stage to take questions from the audience, revealing a deeper, self-reflexive view of the Temple.
SOUND+VISION
WHOAA treat SOUND+VISION to an unforgettable performance.
Jacob Velcoff leaves his mark on ATLFF’ 19.
Having missed it during ATLFF ‘18, this year’s festival saw the mid-week event return with something for everyone. Complete with live performances from WHOAA and Jacob Velcoff, SOUND+VISION brought together virtual reality films, music videos, and food providing a near sensory overload. ATLFF took over! Free and open to the public along the Eastside Trail of the Atlanta BeltLine and the Historic Fourth Ward Park, the event provided an opportunity for families and friends to celebrate a wonderful evening with beautiful art and delicious food.
Awards Brunch Recap
Filmmakers from all over the globe gathered to receive awards and recognition for their tremendous films.
Jocelyn DeBoer and Dawn Luebbe snatch Best Narrative Feature.
Tomer Heymann takes home Special Jury Award.
Best Narrative Feature – GREENER GRASS
Best Documentary Feature – THE FOURTH KINGDOM (EL CUARTO REINO)
Best Narrative Short - SIRENE
Best Documentary Short – KAMALI
Best Animated Short – HENRIETTA BULKOWSKI
Georgia Film Award – RECKONING
*For full list of awards click here.
Closing Night Presentation: THEM THAT FOLLOW
All good things must come to an end, and when they do, it’s usually depressing. Yet, the end of ATLFF ‘19 was more joyous than sad, because it brought with it the festival’s trademark closing night festivities. The 43rd annual Atlanta Film Festival concluded with a showing of THEM THAT FOLLOW. As the first feature film from writer/directors Britt Poulton and Dan Madison Savage, the star-studded film memorably closed out the already unforgettable festival.
Music Videos + Pilots in 2016 ATLFF Lineup Announced
Check out the artists and directors officially selected to play in our 2016 music video and pilot presentations!
The 2016 schedule includes two presentation categories curated to contribute to the variety and excitement of our 40th anniversary: music videos and pilot webisodes.
Music videos will screen as a FREE Joystick Gamebar event followed by games, drinks, and Q&As with attending artists and filmmakers.
Pilots will precede the Analyze This: A Webseries Pilot Case Study panel during Tuesday's Creative Conference, where three webseries filmmakers will pitch their pilots to a panel of Adult Swim industry professionals.
MUSIC VIDEOS
The Less I Know the Better — Tame Impala
directed by CANADA, 5:42
Water N Liquor — Karmella Daniel
directed by Payne Lindsey, 3:22
Amadeus — Family & Friends
directed by Mike MacDonald, 3:30
Kandy Kangaroo — Q. Guyton
directed by Quentin Guyton, 4:43
Golden Goose — Sam Lucia
directed by Blake Davey, 3:28
King — Grades
directed by Taichi Kumura, 4:37
The Ground Walks — Modest Mouse
directed by Jorge Torres-Torres, 4:01
Going Nowhere — St. Beauty
produced by tre native and Directed by Lacey Duke, 3:46
Dove — Pillar Point
directed by Jacob Krupnick, 4:52
PILOTS
"The Brint KostOn Show"
written & directed by Brent Costin and BROCK SHANKS
USA, 2015, 7:50
"McTucky Fried High"
created & directed by Robert Carnilius, written by Lexington L. Lawson
USA, 2015, 4:17
"The Rub"
written & directed by Kenneth Beaumont & Jonathan Davenport
USA, 2015, 6:31
ATLFF '15: Hone Your Crafts at the 2015 Creative Conference
We are pleased to be offering a diverse slate of educational opportunities for those wanting to sharpen their skills and develop their interests at the 2015 Creative Conference, Monday, March 23 - Friday, March 27!
Last year's Creative Conference saw a variety of panels, workshops, demos and seminars take place during the day on Monday-Friday at The Plaza Theatre. Now, we are pleased to be offering an even more diverse slate of educational opportunities for those wanting to hone their skills and develop their interests at the 2015 Creative Conference, Monday, March 23 - Friday, March 27. This year, we are moving the Creative Conference to 7 Stages Theatre in Little Five Points!
Several of our panels and demos are completely FREE! Whether you want to learn about Screenwriting, Lighting, Audio, On-set safety or Specialty cameras, check out one—or all—of our free events!
Ticketed Creative Conference events cover topics like Puppetry, Animation, an "Archer" meet-and-greet, an acting Casting Call, a Music Video panel, Film Scoring, Funding and discussions on making Short Films, on finding balance between art and story in Documentaries, and on Female Stereotypes in the Film Industry. BBC World News will also present a documentary screening from BBC Pop Up.
If you would like to sign up to pitch your screenplay on Monday March 23 at 1:00 PM, Click here!
Check out the full listing below and check out the Creative Conference page to get tickets!
MONDAY - 3/23
FREE “Invading Hollywood: Breaking into the Industry for Screenwriting”
7 Stages, Main Stage
10:00am-11:00am
This panel discussion will cover topics such as finding an agent, shopping your script around, and what to do with your script once it's written and polished.
Panelists: Chris Kelly, Robin Henry, Dan Bush
Moderator: Denise Hendricks
FREE “What’s the Plan, Stan: The Logistics of Screenwriting”
7 Stages, Main Stage
11:30am-12:30pm
Want to write a screenplay but don’t know where to start? This panel discussion will offer insight on developing a practical timeline for your future screenplay.
Panelists: Brian Egeston, Todd Brock, Lanre Olabisi (Somewhere in the Middle)
Moderator: Denise Hendricks
FREE “Screenplay Pitch-O-Rama”
7 Stages, Main Stage
1:00pm-2:30pm
Screenwriters will have 90 seconds to pitch their screenplays to an audience and a panel of professionals who will then vote for the three films they'd like to see—the three screenplays that are most effectively “pitched." Winners will receive complimentary passes to Michael Lucker’s next Screenwriters’ School.
Judges: Michael Lucker, Ken Lemm, Corey Prince and Frank Hall Green (Wildlike)
Moderator: Denise Hendricks
SIGN UP HERE
“Student to Professional: Navigating Your Way into the Creative Industry ”
7 Stages, Main Stage
3:00pm-4:00pm
When career path options seem infinite, applying for jobs can be intimidating. Whether interested in production, post-production, freelance, full-time, or something in between, the Student to Professional panel can help with these important decisions. Curated by Tube (Tubecreative.com), this panel consists of three industry veterans who can offer insight and tips for resumes, portfolios and best practices for applying for work in the creative industry. Featuring Chris Downs from Tube and David Goldstein
TUESDAY - 3/24
“A Fist Inside the Glove: Puppetry in Independent Film”
7 Stages, Main Stage
10:30am-11:30am
Tired of those pesky human actors? Puppets are the answer! Join Atlanta's very own New Puppet Order to learn their methods for incorporating puppetry into independent film. Sam Carter (Good Grief Suicide Hotline), Darrell C. Hazelrig (Good Grief Suicide Hotline) and Beau Brown will share insights from the 8 puppetry short films they have produced in the last 5 years.
Presented by New Puppet Order
“Puppeteering for the Camera”
7 Stages, Main Stage
12:00pm-1:00pm
Learn the hand-and-rod puppetry style developed for television by Jim Henson by puppeteers as “monitor work”; the puppeteer references a live feed of their performance in a monitor rather than watching the puppet directly. Participants will learn the basics of gravity, focus, and breath as well as get a chance to see themselves on screen.
“Archer: Behind the Scenes”
7 Stages, Main Stage
1:30pm-2:30pm
The 3D and 2D animators/illustrators from Floyd County Productions will present clips from the Emmy-nominated animated series “Archer” and discuss how they broke into the industry. There will be a Q&A and a meet-and-greet with the panelists following the program.
Presented by Jay Li, Chris Malone, Josh Grubbs, Duncan Burris and Allyssa Lewis from Floyd County Productions
“Silhouette Animation: 3D Printing and Laser Cutting”
7 Stages, Main Stage
3:00pm-4:00pm
With help from innovative technologies like the 3D printer and laser cutter, the animation industry has opened to a world of possibilities. Join us where papercraft meets stop motion animation as we present an up close demo of how Pepakura and Pop Up Pro paper craft software can create amazing effects as seen in our ATLFF film bumper.
Presented by Ginger Tontaveetong (Starlight), Ai Zhang and Yu Ueda (Starlight)
WEDNESDAY - 3/25
FREE “Field Audio 101”
7 Stages, Main Stage
10:30am-11:30am
Learn the basics of production sound! This seminar is designed to provide an introduction for students, producers, and anyone who wants to learn more about field audio. Even if you’re not an aspiring mixer, understanding the workflow of the sound department can help your set run smoothly! Topics will include wireless microphone fundamentals, booming techniques, wiring talent with lavaliers, and basic recorders.
Presented by Dan Joseph and Marty Simpson from Gotham Sounds
FREE “DIY Lighting Workshop”
7 Stages, Main Stage
12:00pm-1:00pm
Discover economical tricks to building your own lighting without compromising the professional look of your film. Cinematographer/writer/director Ly Bolia discusses lighting on a limited budget in this hands-on workshop.
FREE “Demo: Grip Truck”
7 Stages, Parking Lot
1:30pm-2:30pm
Step inside the Grip Truck for a show-and-tell with Day 1 Production Services.
FREE “On-Set Safety”
7 Stages, Main Stage
1:30pm-2:30pm
This panel represents different aspects of the film industry and can speak to the importance of on-set safety. Join us for a meaningful conversation about the long-term impact it has on crew-members, talent and local communities.
Moderated by ATLFF Business Manager Amy Tippit
Panelists: Dick Hillman from Operation Lifesaver, Tara Ansley, and Linda Burns
FREE “Demo: A Drone’s Eye View”
7 Stages, Main Stage
3:00pm-4:00pm
Nolan Lunsford and Brent Bouthiller from Unmanned Imaging will present a live hexacopter demonstration and showcase footage from previous projects.
FREE: “DJI Ronin Camera Stabilizer Workshop”
7 Stages, Black Box
4:30pm-6:00pm
ATLFF filmmaker in residence and installation artist Micah Stansell presents a hands-on workshop on the DJI Ronin 3-axis stabilized handheld gimbal. Learn the powerful capabilities (and flexibility) of this new gimbal camera platform and how it can transform your next production. The workshop will give attendees a chance to set-up and operate the Ronin in a real world scenario as well as tips and strategies for capturing high production-value footage. Limited to the first 30 people.
THURSDAY - 3/26
“Fever Pitch: An Open Casting Call”
7 Stages, Main Stage
11:00am-12:30pm
Actors will have one minute to pitch themselves to an audience of filmmakers and casting agents. Carrie Anne Hunt, actress and Co-Chair of the Atlanta SAG-AFTRA Indie Outreach Committee will host and moderate the event.
SIGN UP HERE
“I Want My MTV”
7 Stages, Main Stage
1:30pm-2:30pm
Visiting filmmakers will show a one-and-a-half to two minute clip reel showcasing excerpts from three music videos they’ve created. Each panelist sets up what will screen, hits play, and attendees momentarily rock out before said panelist waxes poetically on the pleasures and/or challenges of each project.
Moderated by ATLFF alumnus and editor Tom Roche.
Panelists: Brandon Obey (Lordencih - Propaganda), Joshua Yates (J.K. The Reaper - Exodia), Video Rahim/Ashley Simpson (Gunpowder Gray-Saints) and David Kim from Tre Native
“Scoring on a Budget”
7 Stages, Main Stage
3:00pm-4:00pm
Film Composer Paul Mercer and Sound Designer Bruce Bennett discuss how to score a film on a budget. Learn how to create a cohesive sound for your film, choose a composer, license songs, and the best practice for film scoring when you don't have money to burn.
FRIDAY - 3/27
“Breaking In Short-Style: Q&A and Interactive Discussion On Short Filmmaking”
7 Stages, Main Stage
10:30am-11:30am
In this interactive panel discussion, ATLFF instructor and writer-producer Kathy Berardi will moderate an insightful conversation between three festival-placing filmmakers and attendees looking to learn the ins-and-outs of making a short. Featured filmmakers will open up about lessons they’ve learned and their favorite filmmaking moments.
Panelists: Raymond Carr (Hitori), Aly Migliori (Knightsville), Gabrielle Fulton (Ir/Reconcilable), Alexander Yan (Chandelier), and Brian Lonano (CROW HAND!!!)
“Subject vs. Presentation: Finding the Balance in Documentary Filmmaking”
7 Stages, Main Stage
12:00pm-1:00pm
As documentary filmmaking evolves, where does the emphasis belong—with the story or the artform? ATLFF documentary filmmakers will participate in a panel discussion and Q&A moderated by Film School Rejects’ and Nonfics’ Christopher Campbell.
Panelists: Jared Callahan (Janey Makes a Play), Jef Bredemeier (Dante’s Down the Hatch), Gayla Jamison (In Our Son’s Eyes), Michael Lessac (A Snake Gives Birth to a Snake), Erin Bernhardt / Danielle Bernstein (Imba Means Sing)
“Funding Your Film”
7 Stages, Main Stage
1:30pm-2:30pm
Get the tools you need to bring your film project to life! This panel of industry professionals will provide independent filmmakers with practical advice for creating a business plan to secure film funding. Through this step-by-step lecture, prospective filmmakers will learn how to budget their production, pitch to investors, and raise the capital to finance their project.
Moderated by ATLFF Executive Director Christopher Escobar
“Filminism: An Examination of Female Stereotypes in the Film Industry”
7 Stages, Main Stage
3:00pm-4:00pm
Should women suppress what makes them feminine in order to be successful, or should they challenge industry standards to embrace the female voice? Any approach to these issues presents merits and drawbacks. ATLFF Filmmaker in Residence Brantly Watts will moderate a panel of selected female filmmakers as they discuss what it might look like to facilitate industry change to better support gender equality.
Panelists: Meryem Benmbarek (Jennah), Sorrell Sanders (Pepper’s Place, Good Grief Suicide Hotline), Jen West (Little Cabbage), Caryn Waechter (The Sisterhood of Night)
“BBC News Worldwide presents: BBC Pop Up (@bbcpopup)”
7 Stages Main Stage
4:30pm-6:00pm
BBC World News presents a documentary screening from BBC Pop Up (www.bbc.com/bbcpopup), an experimental mobile news bureau that has been on the road in the U.S for the past 6 months. The team of video journalists relocates each month to a new town, where they crowdsource suggestions for stories about American communities for the BBC’s global audience on BBC World News TV and bbc.com. BBC Pop Up creator Matthew Danzico will host a Q&A and documentary filmmaking workshop in conjunction with the screening to give insights into the project.
ATLFF '15: THE SISTERHOOD OF NIGHT Slated to Bring Several Young Stars to Atlanta
Caryn Waechter is scheduled to attend the #NewMavericks screening of her directorial debut, "The Sisterhood of Night," along with two producers and four lead cast members, including Georgie Henley from "The Chronicles of Narnia" and Kara Hayward from "Moonrise Kingdom."
Willa Cuthrell, Olivia DeJonge, AND Georgie Henley in "The Sisterhood of Night"
Over 36 days in 2012, director Caryn Waechter and screenwriter Marilyn Fu completed Kickstarter's second most successful narrative campaign ever funded. Graduates of Columbia University's MFA film program, Waechter and Fu intrigued supporters with the following pledge:
"With your support, we'll have the $$ to start production on The Sisterhood of Night, a feature film and creative entry point into the world of the average (or not-so-average) teenager.
Sisterhood is a modern version of the Salem witch trials, adapted from a short story by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Steven Millhauser (Martin Dressler, "Eisenheim the Illusionist"). The heart of the story is about how teens connect with each other through art, friendship, and the power of secrets. We also promise to do what every movie should—entertain you and take you for a ride. Sisterhood is a provocative and inspiring story that builds a network of creativity for teens to share ideas and visions. You can be one of them."
Thanks to our festival's closing weekend, you can, too. Check out the official trailer:
On March 27th at 7:00pm in The Plaza's main theatre, The Sisterhood of Night will screen for a limited audience and a majority of the starring talent! Director Caryn Waechter, lead actresses Georgie Henley ("The Chronicles of Narnia" film trilogy), Kara Hayward ("Moonrise Kingdom"), and Willa Cuthrell ("Dan in Real Life," "Whatever Works"), actor Evan Kuzma, Exectutive Producer David Urritia, and Producer Elizabeth Cuttrell (both produced "Meek's Cutoff" and "Jesus' Son") are scheduled to attend.
Fortified with the winning submissions of a crew-hosted teen art contest, this fresh and frank star-studded drama (leads Kal Penn, Laura Fraser, and Jessica Hecht also star) is at once an homage to the history of small town uproar in the face of change, a dichotomy of Internet effects on teens and popular media, and a testament to courage and self-discovery.
Don't miss your chance to see this one-time festival screening! Get your tickets now, or become a member and see it for free!
"The Sisterhood of Night" is a standout feature film in ATLFF's third annual New Mavericks film program. A series showcasing films from female filmmakers with strong female leads, 2015 New Mavericks selections have expanded to include feature films for the first time. Follow along with #NewMavericks and check out our Filminism Creative Conference Panel—hosted just hours before "The Sisterhood of Night"—while you're at it!
Submissions for the 2014 Creative Conference Are Now Open
The call for entries is officially out - submit your panel proposals and ideas for the 2014 Creative Conference today!
David Bruckner, Nicholas Tecosky, Kevin Collins, and Tonya Holloway discuss story structure at the 2013 Atlanta Film Festival (Moderator: Linda Burns)
After the rousing success of last year's CINformation Seminar Series, the excitement around the office quickly segued into a charge: how could we build upon that success in order to make it even better in the future. Never one to rest on my laurels (partly because I have so few that it's rarely an issue, but largely due to the fact that the record attendance was more attributable to the panelists who participated and the support of local hero Linda Burns in putting me in contact with so many of them), I quickly set about trying to figure out how to move the event in a direction that would be more in line with the grand vision that we at the festival have for it, which is no less than the pre-eminent Media Conference in the Southeast.
The first thing that had to go was the name.
While conceptually interesting, CINformation was never really something that clicked with me. Unless one could see it in print, it made very little sense. It took too much effort to explain to potential panelists - efforts that could be better spent discussing specific panel ideas. And frankly, whenever I heard it out loud it gave me nervous images of sweaty revival side tents. As a newcomer, it was a title I was saddled with and didn't feel I had the authority to change. To my great relief, it started to become clear to me in the months following the festival that most everybody else felt the same way.
Jeremiah Kulani Prescott, Linda Spears, Scott Beatty, Aron Siegel, and Allen Lee Williams III demonstrate proper sound recording technique at the 2013 Atlanta Film Festival.
And so, without further ado, I present to you the 2014 Atlanta Film Festival Creative Conference.
As part of our vision for the Conference, we're expanding the scope of our panels, in the hopes of including media professionals and academics from all over the country to compliment the wide-ranging experts we have locally. The hope is to engage in a conversation that affirms, explores, and challenges the local infrastructure while also placing it within the context of a larger media and storytelling community.
Blake Meyers and Shane Morton demonstrate the fine art of Makeup FX with the help of Allison Meier at the 2013 Atlanta Film Festival.
Now the call goes out. Help us take the first steps towards establishing the Creative Conference as a destination for eager, info-hungry acolytes by submitting your proposals, ideas, and possible demos. Whether you have a topic you yourself would like to present, or merely a subject for moderation, we'd like to hear from you. If you've got nothing, then send it on to your friends and make sure to come out March 31st - April 4th to learn, network, and be inspired. Together, we can achieve the goal of making this the largest, most successful, and most informative conference in the region.
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