A Shift in Motion
Things are shifting—again—but this time it feels different. More like coming home. After a season of burnout and forcing things that didn’t fit, I’m reconnecting with what lights me up: storytelling, real creative flow, and the kind of soul work that sparked back to life during camp last week. If you’ve ever had to find your way back to what matters, this one’s for you.
Cinema Summer: Now Might Be Our Only Chance to Make Movie Theaters Cool Again
Remember when going to the movies felt like an event?
Rain makes the case for why this summer might be our last real shot to bring that magic back—and how better marketing, community, and a little nostalgia could save cinema culture as we know it. (Plus, July’s lineup is stacked… superheroes, satires, and Smurfs? Let’s go.)
In Case You Missed It: Our First Summer Film Camp Was a Wrap!
They came. They created. They made a movie.
In just five days, our first-ever Summer Filmmaking Camp brought together six incredible students to write, cast, and produce a short film from scratch. What they built together—and the joy they brought into the room—was pure magic.
“Color Book” Is Coming to the Festival!
“Color Book” Is Coming to the Festival!
We’re proud to announce that Color Book, the powerful debut feature from writer-director David Fortune, will screen at this year’s Hub City Film Festival.
A Saving Grace for a Suffering Genre
In her review of Materialists, Callie Nuckolls explores how Celine Song’s latest film breathes new life into the modern romance genre—shifting away from glossy rom-com tropes and into something deeper, more honest, and emotionally layered. With sharp performances from Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans, Materialists doesn’t just entertain—it invites audiences to rethink what love looks like in a post-2020 world.
on my radar this week
Warner Bros. is reviving "The Bodyguard," aiming to honor the original's themes of love, protection, and sacrifice. Filmmakers must respect Whitney Houston's iconic performance and soundtrack while recapturing the original's essence. Fans are eager yet nostalgic, wishing for a blend of respect and new ideas. Will it evoke the same emotions? Only time will tell.
Indie Films and Blockbusters: What's Buzzing in Hollywood
It’s been a week packed with exciting news from both indie films and Hollywood. From the Oscars to The Goonies 2
Oscars 2025: A Monumental Night for Independent Filmmaking
For years, the Oscars have been a battlefield for the same familiar names, often leaving fresh talent feeling sidelined. But last night, the tide turned. The Academy stepped into the light, heralding a new dawn of storytelling that celebrates diversity and innovation. At the heart of this revolution? Anora, Sean Baker's audacious film that not only captivated audiences but also shattered expectations, taking home an astounding 5 out of 6 Oscars it was nominated for, including the coveted Best Director. This moment isn’t just a victory for Baker; it's a resounding affirmation that independent filmmakers have a commanding presence in Hollywood. The Oscars sparked a fire, and Anora is leading the charge toward a richer, more inclusive cinematic landscape. Buckle up; the industry has officially been electrified.
Our Collective Journey: How We Got Here and What’s Next
A few years ago, a flame ignited within me—a yearning for a film community in West TN. I craved a sanctuary for filmmakers to unite, share, and innovate. What blossomed from that yearning? The Hub City Film Festival, now striding into its third year, has evolved into The Reel Collective. It's nothing short of astounding how far we've traveled together, brick by brick, forging ahead through challenges that once loomed large.
In this landscape of independent filmmaking, community is our heartbeat. You commit to creation, and you’re also promising to lift one another. And the best part? The boundaries are virtually non-existent. No execs, no corporate chains, just raw, unfiltered storytelling. Here lies the exhilarating freedom of indie film—the canvas is endless.
Yet, we confront obstacles. Despite our best efforts, we sometimes find ourselves alone or misunderstood. To those feeling unseen: we see you. Your vision matters to us.
Filmmaking is a collaborative dance; it thrives in synergy. My most potent pieces emerged not solo, but as a joint endeavor with my incredible team. A realization struck me this February—I had been underestimating the power of collaboration. The moment I stepped back and let my team take their rightful place, new perspectives flooded in, transforming our journey for the better.
The Reel Collective isn’t just a name; it’s a movement. Together, we rise, together, we create.