Nashville Set to Shine at the 55th Film Festival
Hey, Nashville! If you’re a fan of film, get ready for some excitement because the 55th Nashville Film Festival is just around the corner! From September 19 to 25, movie lovers can gather at various venues, including the beloved Belcourt Theatre and the charmingly historic Franklin Theatre, to immerse themselves in an extraordinary showcase of cinema.
Meet Lauren Thelen — The Heart Behind the Festival
At the helm of this year’s programming is Lauren Thelen, the festival’s Director of Programming. With a childhood shaped by a deep love for film, Lauren is on a mission to build connections between our fabulous Nashville community and the world of cinema. Growing up in Chicago, she was always surrounded by film, thanks to her parents who introduced her to everything from Disney classics to cult favorites like Grease and Bewitched.
After diving into media and cinema studies at DePaul University, Lauren found her footing in the festival scene with an internship at the Chicago International Film Festival. Over the years, she made her mark by managing educational programs that brought the joy of film to students all year round. This experience continues to influence how she curates films — a blend of education and entertainment that’s always captivating.
A Sneak Peek Into the Festival
The lineup this year promises to be nothing short of extraordinary, with exciting Creators Conference panels and a dynamic pitch event. Though the Creators Conference isn’t entirely new, it’s definitely improved! Lauren’s team has worked hard to bring a variety of compelling topics and experienced industry panelists to the festival, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Attendees can expect valuable insights from discussions touching on everything from the art of storytelling to the technical side of film production.
Celebrating Nashville’s Unique Film Scene
What truly makes this festival special is Nashville’s rich musical backdrop. The festival usually features films deeply intertwined with music, showcasing the city’s vibrant artistic spirit. This stunning combination creates a one-of-a-kind experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike.
This year is particularly exciting, as a wave of emerging filmmakers are making their mark. These talents are known for their innovative storytelling and unique voices, often drawing inspiration from Nashville’s culture. Among the new voices is Haneol Lee, a student at Vanderbilt University, who will be showcasing his short film First Night.
More Than Just Movies
With a busy schedule, Lauren keeps everything in perspective with a simple mantra: “We’re not saving lives; we’re just showing movies.” This kind of light-hearted approach helps her navigate the fast-paced world of festival planning. When she’s not curating the festival, you can find her indulging in her other loves: beauty and skincare, all while spending time with her puppy, Bodhi, sipping on coffee, and dreaming about her next travel adventure.
What’s Coming Up?
So, if you’re in Nashville from September 19 to 25, make sure to grab your tickets to the film festival! Get ready to immerse yourself in the powerful stories our filmmakers have crafted while enjoying the vibrant buzz of our lovely city. Whether you’re a film buff, a casual viewer, or just looking for a fun night out, the Nashville Film Festival has something for everyone. You won’t want to miss it!
