The SOFO Cinema program, presented by the Sowal Foundation and sponsored by the St. Joe Company Foundation, is making waves along the Emerald Coast. This innovative initiative is designed to spotlight local filmmakers and their short films on a monthly basis at a variety of rotating venues. With its commitment to enriching the cultural landscape and offering unique opportunities to local talent, SOFO Cinema is quickly becoming a cherished community event.
“SOFO Cinema offers filmmakers and film lovers an experience to view locally made short films,” says Jessica Plowden Anderson, Executive Director of the Sowal Foundation. “We also bring in four feature-length films from artists outside of our local community, some of those films are on Netflix, Amazon Prime & other streaming services as well as award-winning films from film festivals.”
The program’s dual focus on local and external films creates a rich viewing experience that highlights the creative talent residing along the Emerald Coast while also introducing audiences to acclaimed works from around the world. Each screening not only features local short films but also includes an opportunity for viewers to engage directly with the filmmakers through Q&A sessions. This dialogue provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process and fosters a deeper appreciation for the art.
In addition to its monthly screenings, SOFO Cinema has launched a new grant opportunity to further support local filmmakers. The Sowal Foundation will award one $2500 grant four times a year to a short film production. This grant aims to fund passion projects that will be showcased at future SOFO Cinema nights. Filmmakers interested in applying can find more details and submit their applications on the Sowal Foundation’s website at sowalfoundation.org.
The program is also on the lookout for new and exciting venues to host its screenings. If you’re a business interested in participating, SOFO Cinema welcomes collaborations with local establishments to broaden the reach and impact of this vibrant cultural initiative.
SOFO Cinema is more than just a film screening series; it’s a celebration of local creativity and an invitation to engage with the broader film community. As it continues to grow, it promises to offer even more opportunities for filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike to connect and inspire.
