Columbia, SC: A Cinematic Debut With Heart
Excitement is in the air as Columbia prepares for the premiere of the heartwarming film “Thy Will Be Done” this Saturday, October 5, 2024. The film, written, shot, and produced right here in Columbia, offers an intriguing glimpse into life lessons that resonate with many, touching on themes like humility and gratitude.
A Unique Star in the Spotlight
One of the film’s standout features is its star, none other than Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. Known for his steadfast commitment to the community, Lott steps into the role of a coroner, showcasing his versatility in front of the camera. Interestingly, Lott mentioned in an interview that stepping onto this movie set didn’t intimidate him at all. After spending nearly a decade as an undercover narcotics agent, he likened his experience to acting. “If you mess up in the movie, they can retake it,” he stated. “If you mess up working undercover, it might be your life.”
The Meaning Behind the Film
“Thy Will Be Done” tells the story of a young woman named Summer Buckner, portrayed by Tiffanie Flagler. Summer is faced with the challenge of living five days in poverty to inherit her late father’s fortune. The film’s director, JB Brown, who has crafted this narrative over the past twelve years, aims to deliver a message that encourages viewers to ponder their own lives and the values they hold dear. Brown, who also founded JBSTAR Productions, emphasizes community involvement and moral storytelling in all of his films.
“The plot touches on serious issues such as human trafficking and domestic violence, but we want it to be a prompt for people to think about their lives,” Brown shared. He hopes that audiences will walk away with a newfound appreciation for what they have.
A Community Affair
Many familiar faces from the Columbia area joined Lott in the film, including WIS sportscaster Curtis Wilson and radio personality Jeffrey Lamkin. For Columbia native Melodi Sunstresa, who also acted in the film, it was a transformative experience. She described it as both “awesome and humbling,” adding that it made her appreciate life’s little moments even more.
Premiere Details
The film premiere is set to take place at the DTM Theatre inside Dutch Square Mall, located at 421 Bush River Road. Viewers can catch the film in three showings at 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. Just think of it: a special chance to see local talent on the big screen, including the sheriff himself! And if you miss it this weekend, don’t worry, as another screening is schedule for Hampton on October 26.
A Special Connection
In speaking about his collaboration with Brown, Sheriff Lott highlighted how special it is to see a local filmmaker work with members of the community. “JB is part of this community. This wasn’t just someone coming from California or New York; it makes it a little bit special,” he explained. “When people see the movie, they’re going to see people they recognize in Columbia.”
Join Us!
So if you’re in Columbia this weekend, why not stop by the Dutch Square Mall? Not only will you enjoy a great movie, but you’ll also be supporting local talent and the rich culture of our community. Don’t miss out on the chance to see a film that promises to peel back the layers of life’s challenges while reminding us all to be humble and grateful.
