The upcoming Southern Appalachian International Film Festival (Oct. 22-31) will feature a number of independent Appalachian films this year during its week-long run in downtown Johnson City and at East Tennessee State University.In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the founding of ETSU’s Center for Appalachian Studies and Services, a Tennessee Center of Excellence, the Film Studies Program at ETSU will host a panel discussion on contemporary Appalachian filmmaking on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 4 p.m. in the Ball Hall auditorium (room 127).

The panel discussion, hosted by Dr. Jennifer Barker, assistant professor and director of Film Studies in the ETSU Department of English, will focus on the issues, challenges and rewards of making movies in and about Appalachia. Panelists include four filmmakers: Derek Davidson, director of the feature film “This is Not the South”; Julie Williams Dixon, director of the documentary “Melungeon Voices”; Ivan Nemergut, director of the short film “La Winda”; and Beverly Brooks, director of the documentary “Granny Nichols: Last of the Old-Time Mid-Wives.”

The panel discussion will be followed by a reception at Slocumb Galleries in Ball Hall for the filmmakers, audience and general public.

“Melungeon Voices” will be screened in 127 Ball Hall after the reception at 6 p.m., followed by “This is Not the South” at 7 p.m. “Granny Nichols” will screen Saturday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m., and “La Winda” will be shown Friday, Oct. 30, at 5 p.m.; both will be in 102 Rogers-Stout Hall.

These films and events are free of charge thanks to funding provided by the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts at ETSU. The complete schedule of movie screenings and events for the Film Festival is available online at www.soapiff.com. For more information or special assistance for those with disabilities, contact Barker at (423) 439-6678 or barkerj@etsu.edu.

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