FLORENCE – The George Lindsey UNA Film Festival will kick off its 27th year next week featuring award-winning films and performers.
The festival is Feb. 29 at 9 a.m. at Norton Auditorium on the University of North Alabama campus. The kick-off party is 7 p.m., also at Norton.
As Alabama’s longest-running film festival, the George Lindsey UNA Film Festival is a unique platform for student, emerging, local, and international filmmakers.
“The George Lindsey UNA Film Festival is a beacon for the cinematic arts in our region, propelling the University of North Alabama onto the global film stage,” said Michael Curtis Johnson, chair of the Cinematic Arts and Theatre Department and a festival organizer. “By fostering a vibrant community of filmmakers, students, and enthusiasts, we’re not only celebrating cinematic achievements but also nurturing the growth of the film industry in the Southeast.”
More than 20 finalist filmmakers from across the globe will converge on the Shoals in order to showcase their work at the festival. The event will also include the Alabama theatrical premiere of the feature film, “The Sweet East.” Also slated for screenings are “Sam’s World” and “Hell of SE,” both fresh off of their premiers at the Slamdance Film Festival. The directors for both films are scheduled to attend.
In the spirit of Lindsey’s comedic work, the festival will also have a Clown Workshop for actors, led by actor Tallie Medal, renowned for their role in the Academy Award-winning film “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”
UNA’s Cinematic Arts and Theatre students will present their work March 1 at the Mane Room. Also on March 1, a block party is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the AlleyCAT, at Tombigbee and Pine streets, that will include karaoke and food.
Multiple industry panels are scheduled throughout the festival, and these offer insights into the filmmaking process and the entertainment industry. On March 2, the awards show, which is a festival highlight, will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Mane Room. Among the awards is the Clyde “Sappo” Black Sweet Home Alabama Award, which is accompanied by a $2,000 prize and honors outstanding achievement among nearly 75 Alabama films.
All festival events and screenings are free and open to the public.
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