Out There! Pick

TeenScreen Filmfest

See the Future of Film

originally published June 21, 2006

This Saturday, June 24, an event will allow a glimpse into the future of filmmaking in Athens. The 2006 TeenScreen Filmfest, held at Redeemer Church Auditorium and part of AthFest 2006, will feature a diverse lineup of 12 short movies made by local teens. "They don't have outlets for this in school, so we give them the opportunity to show their work," explains Kamala Lyons of Film::Athens. The young artists have been hard at work producing films that cover many genres and themes. Submissions include a dramatic interpretation of Emily Dickenson's "Because I Could Not Stop for Death;" Poopie Mist, a comedic commercial for a spray that eliminates pet waste; and Catch Me if You Can, an old-time cops and robbers movie.

One of the highlights of this year's show will be This Movie is Pretty Sweet, which revolves around the misadventures of three very different people shopping for the perfect gift in downtown Athens. It was developed by the participants in PROJECT::TEENSCREEN, an ongoing filmmaking workshop for teens. For months, a group of dedicated area middle and high school students have been meeting to work on the movie. Jarrard Cole, who will be a junior at Athens Academy next year, says, "The most challenging part was learning to coordinate within such a large group. I am glad I got involved, I learned a lot."

The participants developed every part of the production themselves, from writing dialog and casting to props and art design. "We had some advisors come in to consult with them, but all the creative input came from the students," says Lyons. Filming began in April and took six weeks to complete. While in production, the students also put together a behind-the-scenes documentary that will be presented along with their movie on Saturday. "There was always someone shooting anything and everything," says Cole.

The TeenScreen Filmfest is a great chance to see a variety of works by Athens' next generation of artists. Screenings begin at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $5 for general admission, $1 for students or free with an Athfest wristband. All of the filmmakers will be on-hand to present and discuss their projects.

Emily Waldron

Emily Waldron