Columbia Gears Up for Exciting South Carolina Underground Film Festival
Columbia, SC – If you’re looking for an exciting weekend filled with indie films, the South Carolina Underground Film Festival is just around the corner! This annual event is set to take place from November 8-10 at The Nickelodeon Theater (affectionately known as The Nick) in the heart of Columbia. So, get ready to grab your popcorn and dive into a world of creativity as this festival showcases unique films from local and beyond.
What’s in Store at SCUFF?
Founded by talented South Carolina filmmaker Tommy Faircloth, the festival has made it its mission to provide a platform for underseen filmmakers. “When people hear underground, they often assume it’s going to be wild, over-the-top stuff,” Faircloth said. “But really, it just means films that don’t have a dedicated audience yet.” So, whether you’re into horror flicks or heartwarming love stories, there’s a little something for everyone.
Spotlight on Local Talent
This year, the festival will feature a special debut from SC native Griffin Davis, who is returning to his roots to screen his film “Counting In.” This mockumentary follows a man whose quirky job is all about counting in rock songs. How fun is that? Originally conceived as a seven-page sketch for Davis’s comedy group, the script blossomed into a feature film over two years, showcasing their improv skills.
“It almost felt like a true documentary process,” Davis explains. “We discovered the story as we went along.” Plus, the screening at SCUFF carries a personal touch for him. “This is my first feature film, and it’s a real honor to show it where I started my film journey.” It sounds like a dream come true!
A Short Film Premiere You Can’t Miss
Not to be left out, the festival features another exciting short. Yasmin Lee, a multidisciplinary artist, will showcase her new film “Girl Talks To God.” She penned, directed, and starred in this touching short about a young dancer who learns that God may not be who she thought he was. Yasmin’s journey through filmmaking started right at The Nick with a marketing internship in 2018. “Columbia is where my imagination runs free,” she shares, emphasizing her connection to Southern storytelling.
A Festival of Community and Connection
For both Davis and Lee, what makes SCUFF truly special is the community it fosters. Yasmin notes how refreshing it is to celebrate films without big budgets or famous names. “Filmmaking can often seem about glitz and glamour, but it’s really about having access to a camera and a crew that’s ready to embark on that journey with you,” she says.
Faircloth encourages everyone, especially first-timers, to dive into the festival experience, “We’re trying to expose people to flicks they might not typically watch,” he says. He suggests checking out the festival schedule ahead of time, so you don’t miss the films you’re excited about, and encourages mingling with fellow film lovers.
“It’s really no different than going to the movies; you’re just getting a taste of a diverse range of stories – like 50 mini-movies in one weekend!”
Details You Need to Know
The South Carolina Underground Film Festival takes place at The Nick on Main Street in Columbia, with festival passes available for just $50 for all-access all weekend long. With a mix of film genres and local talent in the spotlight, there’s no reason to miss out!
As the date approaches, make sure to circle it on your calendar and prepare for a weekend filled with creativity and cinematic adventure!
