WAY DOWN FILM FESTIVAL

PHOTOS BY S.SAXON AND JAMES JOYCE

Film directors during a Q&A session.

THE EVENT: The Way Down Film Festival held at the Springer Opera House October 21-22, 2016.
THE PURPOSE: Event founders Jacy Jenkins, Cora King and Stacy Cunningham saw a real need to show off the “Camera Ready” status recently bestowed upon Columbus thanks to Georgia’s booming film economy. Together, the three of them set out to establish an international
film festival which would shine a light on Columbus’ burgeoning arts community. Over 100 films were submitted and of those, only 47 were selected to be featured on the multiple Springer stages.  

THE RECEPTIONS: A bevy of events surrounded the two-day festival. It kicked
off with a VIP Reception catered by Jamie Keating Culinary. On Friday evening, a networking even was held at Meritage. The next morning, Iron Bank Coffee transformed the Springer Saloon for a special Q & A with the festival judges panel. The Closing Nights Award Ceremony Gala was held on Saturday from 8 to 10 p.m. at The Loft. The Gala awarded filmmakers
honors and prizes, including a $2500 prize.