Lyndsay Fogarty
When the International Christian Film and Music Festival rolls out the red carpet at Wyndham Orlando Resort International Drive on May 1, more than 1,000 guests are expected to be in attendance. Executive Festival Director Marty Jean-Louis says there are many exciting things in store.
This four-day festival will feature nearly 200 screenings and world premieres. This includes a special screening of “Roe v. Wade” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 3. Written and directed by Nick Loeb and Cathy Allyn Beckerman, the film explores the national battle between Dr. Bernard Nathanson, played by Loeb, and Dr. Mildred Jefferson, played by Stacey Dash, that led to the most controversial court case in history.
There will also be a variety of workshops for filmmakers, musicians, artists and actors as well as opportunities for filmmakers. Whether they’ve been in the business for years or are just starting out, they will have a chance to network with other creators and distributors. Opportunities for actors are also available with auditions being held on Friday and Saturday.
The festival will also feature some big names in the entertainment industry. Guest speakers include Joey Lawrence, who also stars in “Roe v. Wade,” Keshia Knight Pulliam of “The Cosby Show” fame and “War Room” actors TC Stallings and Karen Abercrombie.
In the months leading up to the festival, filmmakers from across the country submitted their work. Categories include feature film, music video, animation and music. A group of 10 judges reviewed each submission and selected the ones that would be screened throughout the event.
The weekend will end with a VIP dinner and Oscars-style awards ceremony hosted by Steffon Vann. Vann is a professional stand-up comedian who has performed on national television networks. He is also the creator and CEO of Soulfunny Entertainment. During the awards ceremony, Louis Gossett Jr. will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his extraordinary work in the entertainment industry. Gossett Jr. was the first African-American to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in “An Officer and a Gentleman” in 1983. He also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Deborah Giarratana, whose background in high-end visual effects earned her recognition for films like “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Black Panther,” will be receiving the Outstanding Woman in Film award for her work.
Not only is it known as one of the largest Christian film festivals in the world, but the International Christian Film and Music Festival is also family friendly. Its goal is to help filmmakers and musicians get to the next level of their careers.
As the festival approaches, stay up to date with the most current list of screenings, workshops, guest speakers and special events. Get your tickets, at www.internationalcff.com.
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