By Marlon Johnson, Dancing with the Trees producer

In late February, The Knight Foundation premiered its latest documentary film, Dancing with the Trees at this year’s Magnolia Independent Film Festival in Starkville, Mississippi. Mississippi’s oldest film festival, “The Mag” was founded in 1997 by a local filmmaker who was dismayed by the fact that there were no local festivals in which he could showcase his work. Fifteen years later, it has become a venue that attracts local artist and some of the best independent films from around the globe to this four-day event.

When one imagines small-town southern USA, engaging film festival may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, in this corner of the country, that is exactly what is taking place. The Magnolia Independent Film Festival boast a variety of films in its line-up ranging from regions such as Birmingham, and Tupelo, to as far away as Spain and Bangladesh. The festival also encourages its own Mississippi student filmmakers to enter, in hopes of preserving the art of filmmaking in their community.

The Knight Foundation’s film Dancing with the Tress, made its film festival debut here. The film is the story of the world’s greatest ceramic artist, George Ohr, the greatest living architect, Frank Gehry and the Mississippi visionary with the insight to merge their talents, Jerry O’keefe. It was the featured film of its timeslot and walked away winning the festival’s Quest Award.

While the Magnolia Independent Film Festival may not have the same influence or name recognition as the Sundances and Tribecas of the world, it does offer a unique festival experience that is not to be ignored. Its hands-on approach and southern hospitality it offers its filmmakers and attendees make it a truly unique and worthwhile experience one cannot easily forget.