January 2023

GOOD FILMS: A Year in the Works

We have all done it - it is late in the day, you pick up your remote control, and you start scrolling through the hundreds of options on your streaming service looking for the one story that will cause you to hit the play button and start watching, listening to, and experiencing. Good films pull you in and stimulate your senses in such a way that you can indulge in someone else’s story. Good films spark your intrigue by teaching you about a new topic. Good films can cause you to reflect on the journey of the characters and find common ground in your own story. And, good films are ones that you watch over and over again for inspiration, to share the film with someone else, or to spark new conversations.

Over the past year, we engaged with six filmmakers and six brave artists who vulnerably shared their stories and artistic processes to be filmed. Each film tells the story of an artist in a way that is unique to both the filmmaker and artist. Some of the films give you a short glimpse into the work of the artist, while other films show us what inspires and challenges them.

Each filmmaker started out with a plan for the film in collaboration with the artist. As filming began and the two discovered more about each other, the plan evolved, the story being told changed, and the journey challenged each of them.

The result of this year long journey will be presented at our rolling premieres - January 26th at the Plaza Theatre and January 27th at Union City Gathering Place - both showings are at 7:30 PM and include all 6 short films (plus 2 bonus short films - one by Ebony Blanding and one by Ethan Payne). 

We hope that you will join us as we celebrate the fifth year of producing short films for Artists by Artists. 

In Community,

Jennifer Bauer-Lyons, Executive Director

Know before you go: Filmer 2023

Indulging in 2023 is more than just giving yourself a special treat for your hard work. We're encouraging everyone in our community, our collaborators, and our creators, to practice self-compassion and self-appreciation this month because, with the help of your donations, SFI is pleased to host our fifth annual Filmer premiere, supporting the work of six filmmakers in two different venues with one shared vision: shining light on the art forms of our community.

What can you expect at Filmer? 
Expect Filmer to transport you to different worlds and leave you feeling inspired, moved, or even changed. The energy in the theater will be electric, and the anticipation will be palpable as special guests make appearances, including this year's special performance by Atlanta Music Project at the Plaza Theatre. Overall, guests can expect a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience as the first to see these works of art before they are made public.

Who should attend Filmer?
You! Whether you're a film buff or just looking for a fun night out, attending a premiere can be a memorable and special occasion. Low ticket prices and ample seating make this an excellent opportunity to meet your favorite filmmakers up close and in person, creating a more personal connection. 

Meet the Films
The films themselves are, of course, the main attraction of our premiere. Gazing up at a large screen in a room full of others eager to share the experience is a truly thrilling sensation. The sound, the visuals, and the overall experience are something that can't be replicated by watching a movie at home. This year's films will take you on a journey and immerse you in a different world, and you'll leave the theater feeling inspired and moved.

Pre-show Reception at Union City Gathering Place
In traditional film premiere fashion, you are invited to join us before the show for a pre-show reception on Friday, January 27th. Come before the show for a great opportunity to mingle with other film enthusiasts and meet some of the filmmakers and artists.