The Made in Arkansas Film Festival returns to CALS Ron Robinson Theater for its sixth year on May 17-19, 2024. The film festival showcases the work of Arkansas filmmakers working here and all over the country. “Made in Arkansas is about cultivating Arkansas filmmakers. Our festival screens more Arkansas filmmakers than any other festival in the state,” said Festival Director Johnnie Brannon. “We provide an opportunity for filmmakers to meet each other, view each other’s work, and build networks that hopefully lead to even more Arkansas-made films.”
Brannon credits Made in Arkansas’s partnership with the Central Arkansas Library System as a huge factor in the festival’s success. “The screen and sound quality in the Ron Robinson Theater are second to none. As a filmmaker, there are few things as exciting as sitting with an audience and watching your film up on the big screen. We love working with CALS to showcase the incredible work being done by filmmakers, actors, and creatives across the state.”
10:00AM – Feature Doc (48:23)
Healer: Dr. Joycelyn Elders Story – Directed by Candace Bellamy
“From Sharecropper's daughter to the first African American Surgeon General of the United States, Healer is a documentary about the life of Dr. Joycelyn Elders.”
12 minute intermission
11:00 - Short Block 2 | Journeys of Reflection – (53:32)
This collection of films invites audiences to embark on journeys of introspection and self-discovery. From fulfilling final wishes that lead to unexpected adventures to confronting past traumas and fractured relationships, these stories delve into the depths of the human experience. Through poignant narratives and heartfelt performances, each film explores the transformative power of reflection, reminding us that sometimes, it is in confronting our past that we find the path to our true selves.
Take it slow – 10:44 – Directed by Jason Pitts
“Rebecca's grandmother's final wish sends her on an adventure of self discovery.”
The Forms of Things Unknown – 9:58 - Dylan Pojar – Weatherly
Starstuff Dream – 6:00 – Directed by Lanie Carlson
“A Mother, who is no longer mothering, must now be the star in her one precious life.”
Say Hello – 26:50 – Directed by Lainee Stiver
“When Carley and her fiancé, Marcus begin planning their wedding, Carley’s estranged, drug addicted mother comes to visit. This unexpected visit causes Carley to begin reliving her past, threatening any chance of reconciliation as well as her sanity.
12 Minute Intermission
12:15 - Short Block 3 | Breaking Boundaries – (47:59)
This film block showcases characters who defy societal expectations and challenge the status quo in pursuit of their true selves. From redefining personal identity through the lens of social media to breaking free from the confines of a suffocating work environment, these films explore the courage and resilience required to forge one's own path. As we witness characters pushing against the constraints of their circumstances, we are reminded of the transformative power of self-discovery and the importance of embracing individuality in a world that often seeks to define us.
Snowflake – 13:45 – Directed by Carter Bowden
“After being told she was ordinary, a woman risks everything to create the person she always wanted to be with social media.”
Cubicle – 6:12 – Directed by Alex Blair
“After another late night at the office, a young, overworked employee tries to leave the building, but can’t escape its grasp.”
All Units – 28:02 – Mike Day
“A married couple find themselves at odds over their roles at the latest protest.”
12 Minute Intermission
1:15 - Panel – Behind the Curtain: The Art and Science of Casting
An exclusive look into the world of casting with industry experts. Join us as casting directors share their insights and experiences, discussing everything from their typical process when receiving a new project to their strategies for finding the right talent. Discover how they approach character breakdowns, balance creative visions with practical considerations, and navigate the evolving landscape of casting, including the impact of technology and the rise of streaming platforms. Gain valuable advice for actors looking to make a lasting impression during auditions and learn about the future of casting in an era of international collaborations and changing trends. Don't miss this opportunity to go behind the scenes and explore the fascinating world of casting.
15 minute intermission
2:30 – FEATURE – (48:00)
Uneven Ground: The Melissa Witt Story – Directed by LaDonna Humphrey
“Determined to find answers, LaDonna Humphrey and her team spent eight years on a journey like no other. Never before seen case files, interviewing witnesses, potential suspects, and working alongside retired detectives to find justice.”
12 minute intermission
3:30 – Short Block 4 | Shadows of Choice – (63:39)
This film block delves into the complexities of moral dilemmas, personal vendettas, and the consequences of choice. From the intense confrontation between a police officer and his criminal brother to the high-stakes world of military operations and the gritty quest for revenge by a young mutant, these films explore the blurred lines between right and wrong, duty and desire. As characters grapple with their decisions, facing betrayal, confinement, and the haunting specter of their pasts, audiences are drawn into a world where every action has a price, and every choice casts a shadow that lingers long after the screen fades to black.
Bang! – 5:33 – Directed by Wesley Rolfe
“A police offer confronts his criminal brother about his recent crimes. He must decide to let him go, arrest him, or kill him before his brother strikes.”
Operation: Thanatos – 11:03 – Directed by Hayden Morris & Tyler Shen
“A joint military operation targeting a drug lord reveals a darker truth - he's a key player in global arms dealing. Teams Reaper-7 and Alpha-1 lead a race against time to dismantle the arms network, facing firefights, betrayal, and the looming threat of weapons in the wrong hands. "Operation: Thanatos" is a pulse-pounding short film exploring the lethal convergence of drug cartels and international arms trade.”
Mori – 10:24 – Directed by Torin Hight
“Mori, a young mutant with psychic abilities, spent much of her early life enslaved by a mysterious organization. Years after her escape, Mori now has tracked down the scientist that tormented her all that time, and she's out for revenge. A Sci-Fi film with a splash of horror, Mori aims to be a larger than life tale of bloody vengeance, with the personal struggle of a wronged woman trying to move on from her past, even if she has to kill it”
Here and nowhere – 12:00 – Directed by Brendan Burks
“A young girl is trapped inside her home by her father and seeks freedom once a new neighbor moves in.
Trade Your Time – 22:56 – Directed by Michael Murray
“A modern entrepreneur steeped in crypto-hustle culture is on the run from a polite employee of a metaphysical company dealing in death for using a clock that allows him to see into the future.”
12 Minute intermission
4:45 - Short Blocks 5 | Harmonies of Resilience– (62:57) – Short DOCS 1
This film block celebrates the resilience and transformative power of passion and community. From the dedication of a band teacher shaping young lives through music to a community coming together to tackle maternal health challenges and a son striving to surpass his father's racing legacy, these films highlight the indomitable spirit of individuals and groups facing formidable challenges. As we immerse ourselves in these stories of determination, we are reminded of the profound impact that shared passions and collective action can have in overcoming obstacles and fostering positive change.
Always Keep the Music – 6:20 – Directed by Heather Collins
“A day in the life of Little Rock band teacher and director, Mr. Nehemiah Paul: This short doc explores the importance of band and music in the life of Mr. Paul, as well as the lives of the students he teaches in a public middle school.”
The Arkansas Maternal Health Community Hackathon – 11:10 – Directed by Ringo Jones
“The Arkansas Maternal Health Community Hackathon was a free, one-day event open to the public that aims to start conversations, build connections and develop community-led solutions to address the maternal health crisis in Arkansas.”
Racer’s Nature: Trial By Fire – 28:41 – Directed by Ben Harrison
“Intense and captivating documentary that follows a son's relentless journey to surpass his father's legendary track record. Through exhilarating races, personal sacrifices, and emotional struggles, we witness the unyielding pursuit of greatness and the complex dynamics of family ties. Brace yourself for a high-octane exploration of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of breaking boundaries in the world of motorsports.”
13-minute intermission
6:00 – Short Blocks 6 | Threads of Connection – (51:39)
This film block weaves together narratives that explore the profound impact of human connections, both unexpected and cherished. From a poignant tale of love and memory in the face of dementia to the playful escapades of siblings seeking sweets, and the unlikely bond between a grandfather and his granddaughter, these films delve into the ways in which relationships shape our lives. As we witness characters forging new connections and rediscovering the importance of companionship, we are reminded of the transformative power of human empathy and understanding in a world often marked by loneliness and isolation.
Goodbye, Baby – 8:48 - Directed by Kristine Artymowski
“A woman in her seventies who is getting dementia thinks her dead husband has come back as a tortoise.”
Sugar Crash – 9:48 – Directed by John Huggins
“Two brothers are determined to elude the watchful eye of their grandmother and get to a box of candy.”
Two of a Kind – 9:56 - Directed by Skylar Nelsen
“In "Two of a Kind", we follow Clark and George, a grandfather-granddaughter duo, as they bond over playing poker, being the black sheep of their families, and scamming George's poker buddies: a rowdy group of Vietnam War vets.”
In A world Full of Loneliness – 23:07 – Directed by Jules Taylor
“A story about the universal power of connection to lift up even the most desolate soul. When Mrs. Kenit, relegated to a life of routine and isolation witnesses an act of violence, it causes her to react and her life changes in just one night.”
9 min intermission
7:00 - Comedy Block | Unexpected Turns (47:29 min)
This film block explores the unexpected twists and turns that life often presents, from eerie encounters with the past to chaotic babysitting adventures and the hidden motivations behind childhood activities. As we follow characters navigating through moving days, after-school moments, and surreal dating app meet-ups, we are reminded of the unpredictable nature of human interactions and the curious paths they can lead us down. These films delve into the humor, horror, and heartwarming moments that arise when our lives take unexpected turns, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of the unknown.
An Unfortunate Encounter – 1:26 – Directed by Victor Keas
“A college student is greeted with a horror from his past!”
Watate – 6:01 – Directed by Aidan Kolokithaas
“An uncle reluctantly agrees to babysit his niece for a night and things quickly spiral out of control.”
Off-Sides – 9:41 – Directed by Kaitlyn Brown
“A camera crew follows an elementary aged soccer team to discover the true reasons as to why they play soccer.”
Moving Day – 11:00 – Directed by Molly Wheat
“When Sarah helps Este move into her new apartment, the building manager interrupts to do some urgent repairs.”
After School – 8:51 – Directed by Lexi Mosby
Clownfish – 10:30 - Directed by Clayton Henderson
“Frank and Elle decide to meet in real life after connecting on a dating app… That’s when things get weird!”
13 Minute Intermission
8:00 - Thriller/Horror | Shadows of the Unknown (64 min)
This chilling collection of films invites audiences into the realms of the mysterious and the macabre. From eerie family legacies and loveless marriages to supernatural encounters and sinister book clubs, each film delves into the darker aspects of human existence. As characters confront unsettling secrets, unearthly entities, and terrifying consequences, these stories delve into the depths of fear and the unknown. Prepare to be captivated and unsettled as you journey through these tales of suspense, horror, and the supernatural.
Unsettled – 6:26 - Directed by Jarrod Paul Beck
“In the quietude of their childhood home, two estranged siblings grapple with the legacy of their late father. A conventional familial task of settling the estate takes an unsettling turn when the siblings must confront a dark, mysterious secret that tore their family apart.”
Gluttony – 13:33 - Directed by Christina Waterman
“A darkly funny film about the horrors of a loveless marriage in which a housewife decides to find another avenue for pleasure.”
A Little Dead – 13:14 - Directed by Ben Richardson
“Hailey and her brother Kevin visit their grandpa’s farm for the weekend. They discover that the caretaker has vanished, and Grandpa has a new nightly ritual of sharing a drink with his deceased wife and another unseen entity.”
The Book Club – 13:37 – Directed by Johnnie Brannon
“A woman is invited to be a part of a book club.... but it soon becomes clear that the women in this club are more than they appear to be."
The Tickle Monster – 17:17 – Directed by Brett Helms
“The film follows Max, a troubled kid who steals a book from a mystical shop. Upon reading it at home, he unwittingly unleashes The Tickle Monster, a creature bent on causing chaos, by tickling people...to death!”
11 minute intermission
9:15 - WTF (61:26 min)
Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of bizarre and bewildering stories in this eclectic film block. From a musical comedy murder thriller to a guilt-ridden quest, a disastrous self-tape audition, a satirical dark comedy about marriage, and a heartfelt journey of reconciliation, these films will leave you questioning reality and saying, "WTF?" Each story takes unexpected turns, blending humor, suspense, and raw emotion to deliver a cinematic experience like no other. Strap in for a wild ride through the unexpected and the inexplicable in this collection of WTF moments.
Peeping Todd – 13:15 – Directed by Josh Munds
“After being confronted about his incessant peeping, Todd decides to eliminate anyone who stands between him and his view of the lovely Claire. A surprise musical comedy murder thriller.”
Where is it? – 5:29 – Directed by Brady C. Ness
“Paul is confronted by his brother, Herm - forcing him to answer the guilt-ridden question, "Where is it?"
Self-Tape – 5:54 – Directed by Eric White & Terrell Case
“An actor shares his self-tape for an audition and things go downhill from there.”
American Heterosexual Story – 11:39 – Directed by Victor Keas
“A marriage will crumble as a wife gets her long overdue revenge in this satirical dark comedy!”
I Went home for Valentine’s – 24:59 – Directed by Claire Moon
“After a decade-long estrangement following his coming out, a man documents his road trip home to reunite with his family, hoping to find what he is missing in his life.”
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