Columbia, Get Ready for a Film Fest Like No Other!
Buckle up, Columbia! The South Carolina Underground Film Festival (SCUFF) is rolling into town from November 8 to 10 at the fabulous Nickelodeon Theater on Main Street, and it’s bringing a fresh wave of indie magic just for you. This is the perfect opportunity to dive into the world of independent feature films and shorts, showcasing talent from South Carolina and beyond!
What to Expect at SCUFF
This year marks another exciting chapter for SCUFF, founded by SC filmmaker Tommy Faircloth. The festival is designed to celebrate a mix of genres, which means you’ll find everything from laugh-out-loud comedies to heart-pounding horror flicks. Faircloth believes that “**underground**” simply means films that haven’t found their audience yet. Whether you’re a fan of quick quips or spine-tingling tales, there’s something waiting for you here!
Spotlight on Local Talent
One of the highlights is sure to be the debut feature film “Counting In” from SC native Griffin Davis. Currently residing in La La Land, Davis will present his mockumentary about a man whose strange job is counting in rock songs. It all began as a seven-page sketch for his comedy group, Probably a Cult, and blossomed into a full-length feature. Davis reflects, “We just kept adding and adding… it almost felt like a true documentary process.”
What’s even more special is that Davis has a rich history with The Nick, having worked there in the past. He’ll tell you, “This is my first feature film, and to show it where I started means the world to me.” It’s a full-circle moment that certainly adds an emotional touch to his film’s screening.
New Voices, New Stories
Another notable participant is Yasmin Lee, a rising artist whose short film “Girl Talks To God” will premiere at SCUFF. Lee, who interned at The Nick back in 2018, has created a poignant story about a young dancer’s unexpected encounter with God. Despite her mixed feelings about identifying solely as a Southerner, Lee shares her connection to the region: “The environment of Columbia is where my imagination runs free.”
The Heart and Soul of Filmmaking
Both Lee and Davis agree that SCUFF stands out because of the strong community it fosters. These filmmakers appreciate the chance to celebrate stories that might not get big budgets or widespread attention. Lee explains, “It’s easy to get caught up in glitz and glamour, but making films is often about just having access to a camera and a crew willing to work with you.”
Don’t Miss Out!
Now, you might be thinking, “A film festival sounds a bit intimidating.” Fear not! Faircloth invites everyone to the festivities, urging newcomers to check out the schedule in advance so they can find the must-see films. “We’re trying to expose people to stuff they wouldn’t normally watch. It’s just like going to the movies, but instead of one or two films, you’re looking at 50!” he encourages.
Plan Your Visit
So mark your calendars for November 8-10 and grab your all-access pass for just $50. With a treasure trove of indie gems waiting to be uncovered, the SCUFF is here to remind us of the magic of storytelling. For tickets and more information, don’t forget to visit nickelodeon.org!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this cinematic celebration in the heart of Columbia. Bring your friends, grab some popcorn, and settle in for an unforgettable experience. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite film!
