Film Festival Earns Great Reviews

From its kickoff celebration to film screening, the 2013 On the Reel Film Festival received great reviews for its inaugural event that debuted Nov. 1 and 2 at the Douglasville Conference Center. “My husband and I really enjoyed the film festival. We liked the variety that was shown—it was a fun day,” said attendee Ginny Zembrzuski.

The On the Reel Film Festival, presented by the City of Douglasville Main Street program, celebrates emerging filmmakers’ creative talent in writing, directing, and production of short films. The festival gives participates the opportunity to showcase their work to audiences, gain exposure, and connect with industry professionals. The inaugural event spanned two days with a variety of fun film activities and entertainment. Attendees were very pleased by the niche event taking place in Douglasville, giving it rave reviews. “Congratulations on a job well done with the film festival. All of us really enjoyed it and getting to meet so many interesting people,” said attendee Denise Overfield. Filmmaker and New Manchester High School video production instructor Cody Bonds also expressed his sentiments for the event. “I want to congratulate you all on a successful first year for the film festival!,” said Bonds.

A red carpet,  flashing cameras, and smiling faces welcomed more than 70 guests to the film festival’s kickoff party held Friday, Nov.1. Douglasville Mayor Harvey Persons initiated the program with a welcome and event introduction, followed by presentations led by Bob Smith from the Douglas County Film Commission and Brian Little, Douglas County College and Career Institute broadcast and video production instructor. Randi Miles, Tourism Director for the Douglasville Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), also shared information about Georgia’s film industry and tourism within the state.

On Saturday, Nov. 2 the film festival featured exhibitor booths, workshops, film screenings, concessions, green screen activities, feature films, and an awards ceremony. “The workshops were well attended and got a lot of positive feedback, and the overall flow of the event went well,” said City of Douglasville Main Street Manager Stephanie Aylworth who coordinated the event. The movie “Congratulations!” was one of two feature films showcased at the festival.  “Congratulations!” is an absurdist comedy about a detective and a boy who goes missing in his own house. Special guest John Curran, the lead actor from the feature film, attended the festival to introduce the movie to viewers and host a question and answer session after the film.

More than  30 movie shorts were submitted to the On the Reel Film Festival in six different categories including comedy, animation, action and suspense, cinematography, documentary, and drama. “It was great to see the participation, enthusiasm, and support that our local community contributed to the film industry in metro Atlanta and Georgia,” said Aylworth. “I’m looking forward to seeing what emerging filmmakers are capable of producing next year!”

Isaac Miller captured Best in Show for the production of “Hallway Troubles” in the youth filmmakers, ages 6 to 13, division. “Mystery of the Toy Soldier,” produced by Allah Samson received Best in Show for youth filmmakers, ages 14 to 18. College student filmmaker Ien Chi earned Best in Show for his film “Ditching School to Whistle,” and semi-professional Rob Underhill earned Best in Show for the production of “Wolf Call.” Evan Sennett and Matthew Rivera captured Best in Show for “Writing the Big One,” in the youth semi-professional division. “Hallway Troubles” received the 2013 On the Reel Film Festival Viewers’ Choice award, voted by viewers at the film festival.

Youth filmmaker Evan Sennett conveyed a heartfelt appreciation for his recognition and the film festival. “Thank you so much for honoring us with the awards and allowing us to have our work screened,” said Sennett. Filmmaker Rob Underhill was also grateful for the opportunity. “We’re thrilled to have "Wolf Call" receive such recognition! Thank you so much,” said Underhill. “It's fantastic encouragement to keep slugging away at making work that makes a difference, and that is impactful and entertaining. I'm looking forward to catching your next call for submissions!”

GreyStone Power Corporation, a well-known community advocate, was the signature event sponsor for the inaugural On the Reel Film Festival. “We are extremely thankful to GreyStone for showing their support for the art of filmmaking by sponsoring the event. We are always looking for sponsors and hope more organizations will get involved in this great event next year,” said Aylworth. Other sponsors for the 2013 On the Reel Film Festival included CITI TV, Douglas County College & Career Institute (CCI), Douglas County Film Commission, and the Douglasville CVB.