Tallahassee Film Society Marks 25 Years of Indie Film

News Summary

The Tallahassee Film Society is celebrating its 25th anniversary in January 2024. Founded in 1999, TFS has evolved from a small group of film lovers to a key player in independent cinema, showcasing a diverse lineup of indie and documentary films. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and recent tornadoes, TFS continues to thrive and engage with the community. The anniversary celebration will feature a special screening of ‘Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat’ and new membership offers.

Tallahassee Film Society Celebrates 25 Years of Independent Film Screenings Amidst Challenges

In the heart of Tallahassee, film enthusiasts are gearing up for a milestone celebration. The Tallahassee Film Society (TFS) is ringing in its 25th anniversary this January 2024, and it’s a time to reflect on a remarkable journey that started back in 1999. Created by two film buffs, John Fraser and Dan Wester, TFS has transformed from a small gathering of cinephiles into a beloved institution for indie and documentary films.

A Humble Beginning

It all began in 1994 when a handful of movie lovers met regularly to watch films that strayed from the mainstream. This passion project blossomed into a formal society by the turn of the millennium, with TFS partnering with Eastern Federal Cinemas to showcase independent films at the Miracle Five Theater.

In those early days, the demand for indie films was so high that TFS regularly sold out all 250 seats at its screenings. This early success laid the groundwork for many years of cinematic joy in the community.

Building a Community

As the years rolled on, TFS expanded its reach. With retired newspaper columnist Mark Hinson championing their films from 2000 to 2019, the society gained visibility and increased its member base, which now boasts nearly 600 subscribing members. John Fraser, still at the helm as the society’s current president, works closely with a dedicated Programming Committee to ensure the selection of a diverse array of films.

Exciting Upcoming Programs

Looking ahead, TFS has some fun programming planned, including a quirky “Cat and Dog Video Fest” and screenings of “Oscar nominees” in various categories. This lineup continues to exemplify TFS’s commitment to the love of cinema, showcasing films from around the world while catering to all tastes.

A Home for Films

Over the years, TFS sought out a proper venue for their screenings and established the All Saints Cinema at the historic 1858 train station, which offered comfortable seating and a welcoming environment. This venue attracted a diverse audience, making TFS a cultural hub in the city. Within its walls, moviegoers could experience a variety of films, enjoy conversations, and connect with fellow film lovers.

Weathering the Storm

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing a halt to in-person screenings. But TFS is no stranger to resilience. After a temporary stop in showings, renovations at the Amtrak station contributed to further delays. Just when things began to look up, a series of three tornadoes in May 2024 wreaked havoc on TFS’s premises.

A Silver Lining

But here’s the good news: after the tornadoes, TFS found a temporary home at the Challenger Learning Center’s IMAX theater, courtesy of Alan Hanstein. This generous offer provided TFS with a platform to host its notable 25th-anniversary screenings.

The celebration will kick off with a special showing of “Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat” on January 11-12, 2024, at the Challenger Learning Center. General admission tickets will be priced at $11, while TFS members can enjoy films for only $9.

Join the Film Family

As the anniversary approaches, TFS hopes to welcome even more film fans. New members can enjoy a special offer during January—signing up will grant them a free first month and two free passes with a $50 membership. It’s the perfect time to dive into the world of indie and documentary films!

Despite recent challenges, the Tallahassee Film Society is ready to continue filling its audience’s hearts with cinema as it has for the past 24 years. With excitement buzzing for the upcoming programs and screenings, TFS proves that the love of film is far from extinguished and will thrive for many years to come.