Indie Film Night Celebrates the Spirit of Independent Cinema
- Jordyn Mayes
- Apr 28
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 16
InDaHouse Media's First Indie Film Night at Backstage ATL
On Sunday, March 2, 2025, the vibrant energy of independent cinema took center stage at Backstage ATL in College Park, Georgia. Hosted by InDaHouse Media and curated by Jerome Dorn and Yolanda Rolle, the event marked the much-anticipated debut of the Indie Cinema Night, a showcase celebrating the voices, vision, and artistry of independent filmmakers. With a program rich in diversity and creativity, the event brought together emerging filmmakers, established industry professionals, and enthusiastic audiences to celebrate the power of independent storytelling.
A Night of Unforgettable Films
The night unfolded with an electrifying blend of screenings, panel discussions, and a monologue contest, all designed to spotlight the talent within the indie film scene. From heartfelt drama to hilarious comedy, the event delivered films that offered a glimpse into the future of cinema—raw, authentic, and full of passion.
The evening kicked off with a 3-minute trailer, a powerful teaser that set the tone for what was to come. The films that followed varied in genre, but each carried the unmistakable stamp of indie filmmaking: a fearless approach to storytelling, unafraid to dive deep into complex themes, often from fresh perspectives.
One of the standout moments came with the screening of Hip Hop’s Lost Soul, a 10-minute film that explores the pain of losing a child. Written by Gregory Hammons and Tee Johnson, the film struck an emotional chord, reminding viewers of the undeniable power of personal storytelling. Tim Isaiah, engaged the audience in a lively Q&A session following the screening, offering insights into the film’s production process and the emotional weight carried by the story. The cast, led by Gregory Hammons, were also on hand to discuss the film’s emotional core and the impact of using hip-hop culture as a vessel for such a deeply personal narrative.
“Black Famous”: A Comedic Take on Love and Ego
The night also saw the premiere of Black Famous, a 20-minute comedic short that explores the relationship struggles of Carl (played by Carl Gilliard), a social media-obsessed man navigating a troubled marriage. Written by Carl Gilliard and directed by Keena Ferguson, the film takes an insightful yet humorous look at modern relationships, gender roles, and the ego-driven complexities of life in the spotlight.
The cast and crew led a lively discussion about the intersections of real-life struggles with the world of social media fame. Gilliard, an accomplished actor, producer, and coach, reflected on the vulnerability required for this role, sharing how the story mirrors real experiences while providing a satirical twist. The film’s humorous take on a husband and wife dealing with egos, insecurities, and failed therapy sessions resonated with audiences, who appreciated the witty, timely commentary on relationships in the age of social media.
A Diverse Range of Stories
Each short film in the lineup showcased the vast range of stories being told in the indie world. What Do You Want to Eat? was another notable entry—a 10-minute exploration of love, food, and self-reflection, which stood out for its emotional depth. Written by Tina Bridges, the film brought together a talented ensemble cast, including Brandi Little and Harold Outley, to create a story that, despite its brevity, left a lasting impact.
Another powerful moment came from So Is The Mother, an 18-minute drama written by Alexis Heggs and Trechell Gordon, which examines the relationship between a mother and daughter. The film’s poignant narrative was accompanied by a thoughtful Q&A with Heggs, who not only played the lead role of Althea but also co-produced the project. The discussion highlighted the personal nature of the story and its themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and generational challenges.
In contrast, Big Black Labrador, a slapstick comedy written by Candace Herring, brought lighthearted humor to the evening. The 6-minute film, which parodies the misadventures of a woman with a too-perfect “big black Labrador,” had the audience laughing uncontrollably. The film drew inspiration from classic comedic greats like Lucille Ball and Martin Lawrence, providing an unexpected but much-needed dose of laughter. Candace Herring, who also starred in the film, shared insights into its production, which was shot in just seven hours with a small but dedicated crew.
The Power of Indie Cinema
The event also featured a Monologue Contest, which saw contestants bring their best performances to the stage. The competition highlighted the incredible talent within the indie community and gave a platform to performers to showcase their skills in front of industry professionals. The panel of judges, which included some of the evening’s featured filmmakers, had the difficult task of selecting a winner, but the event fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among all participants.
The Monologue Contest winner, Candace Herring, received well-deserved praise for her performance, marking a highlight in an evening full of talent and passion. The judges, including industry veterans like Leslie Green, a renowned casting director in Atlanta since the '90s, and Wayne Overstreet, an executive producer and co-founder of Go Media Production, were quick to emphasize the importance of investing in talent and fostering collaborations within the indie scene.
As the night wore on, attendees were reminded of the significant role indie filmmakers play in the evolution of the film industry. Without the constraints of big studios and corporate interests, indie films are able to push boundaries, experiment with form, and address issues that might otherwise go unexplored. The conversation during the panel discussions echoed a consistent theme: indie cinema thrives on the passion and drive of individuals who are willing to take risks and bring their unique stories to life.
Investing in the Future of Film
The night concluded with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future of independent cinema. For industry pros like Carl Gilliard, Angela Davis, and C. Nathaniel Brown—who have all contributed significantly to the indie film scene—the event represented both a celebration of what has been accomplished and a reminder of the work still left to be done. The event’s organizers and panelists shared their hopes for greater visibility and recognition for indie films, which often struggle to receive the attention they deserve compared to big-budget blockbusters.
The importance of supporting independent cinema is not just about watching films—it’s about investing in the stories that reflect the diversity of the world around us. From the heavy-hitting dramas to the laugh-out-loud comedies, independent films are the lifeblood of cinematic innovation, offering voices that challenge the mainstream and redefine the boundaries of storytelling.
As the final credits rolled and the lights came up, the crowd was reminded of why supporting indie cinema is so vital. It’s about championing the creators, the storytellers, and the artists who offer us a glimpse into worlds that mainstream films may overlook. Whether it’s through attending screenings, spreading the word, or simply showing up to events like Indie Cinema Night, there are many ways to support and uplift the voices that need it most.
At its core, Indie Cinema Night wasn’t just about showcasing films—it was about building a community of passionate individuals who understand the importance of giving space to diverse, authentic stories. As we look to the future of indie filmmaking, one thing is certain: it’s a future worth supporting.
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