Lights, Camera, Action! at FSFX

Pop your biggest batch of popcorn and head down to Hattiesburg's Grand Theatre the week of June 17–23 to catch the FestivalSouth Film Expo, or, as it's fondly known, FSFX. As the focus of the second week of FestivalSouth, Hattiesburg's popular multi-genre entertainment festival, FSFX showcases the innovators working in one of the South's most dynamic, fastest-growing creative industries: film. It also celebrates the ties the medium has to the area's creative roots, giving the public an opportunity to experience both Mississippi’s future on the and its storied past.

2018 marks the fourth year the Expo has been a part of FestivalSouth, and its popularity is booming, attracting attention from local film lovers and national critics alike. Director of FSFX Miles Doleac, a local filmmaker and actor, takes pride in providing a platform for independent filmmakers, especially the ones whose work has blossomed in the fertile soil of the Magnolia State. Mississippi filmmakers and pieces shot in Mississippi have had a prominent place at the festival since its inception, a trend that is only bolstered by this year's focus on the state's literary legacy in cinema. Part of the expo will showcase films based on works by legendary homegrown authors, including Tennessee Williams and William Faulkner, as well as films set and shot in the state. Special guest speakers will also host discussions to further explore the films and their inspiration.

The completion portion of the Expo spotlights filmmakers from Mississippi and around the world with an exciting roster of shorts and full-length features vying for the coveted Golden Magnolia, Audience Awards, and other honors. Movie buffs won't want to miss this chance to screen works by emerging artists and share their passion with fellow film lovers! The Reel Big Movie Concert wraps up the whole festival on the evening of June 23 with a flourish worthy of the silver screen, performing film music favorites the whole family will love. Complete schedule and ticketing information available at festivalsouth.org.