Turning Ideas into Stories: How Georgia is Nurturing Emerging Filmmakers

 

From first spark to polished script, the path to bringing a story to life is rarely straightforward, especially for new voices. This panel brings together industry leaders, educators, and independent creators to discuss the creative development process and the crucial support systems helping Georgia’s emerging filmmakers turn ideas into production-ready stories. Sponsored by Trilith Institute, the conversation will explore hands-on mentorship, script refinement, and practical resources that are shaping the next generation of storytellers in Georgia.

Panelists include:

- Mandy McCowan, Senior Director of Operations & Original Productions at Trilith Institute and A-Story Entertainment

- Bryan Redding, Writer/Director of "American Deadbolt"

- Jeremy Thao, Hmong American screenwriter and director from based in Athens, whose award-winning short film Wokman is currently on the festival circuit