Arkansas’ film industry continues to thrive, with the Rock City Film Festival serving as a key driver of community and collaboration. Formerly known as the Made in Arkansas Film Festival, the event highlights homegrown talent while fostering connections between filmmakers across the region.

Founded in 2019 by Johnnie Brannon and Tony Taylor, the festival began with a mission to showcase Arkansas-made films and create a space for filmmakers to connect. Brannon also serves as co-director alongside Kerri Michael, and the duo has led the festival since its inception, navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in-person screenings returned in 2022, continuing the tradition at the CALS Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock—a venue that has hosted every live festival since the beginning.

The festival’s directors emphasize the importance of networking within the industry. “Our festival exists to connect Arkansas creatives with each other and with filmmakers across the region,” Michael said. “People are often surprised at just how robust our independent film community is here in Arkansas! We love to see filmmakers having conversations that may lead to new projects.”

Brannon echoed the sentiment, noting the festival’s reach across the state. “It’s amazing to see the quality of films from northwest Arkansas, Fayetteville, Bentonville, Hot Springs and beyond,” he said. “Many filmmakers travel here to represent their work, which is exactly why we do this—to create a space for Arkansas filmmakers to meet, celebrate each other and collaborate.”

The festival is also attracting creatives from neighboring states, including Oklahoma, Texas, Georgia and Tennessee. “Visitors to our state are blown away not only by the talent of Arkansas filmmakers but also by the warm welcome extended to them,” Michael said.

Filmmaker Paula Blanco Perez, winner of multiple festival awards, praised the event’s impact. “It allows me to connect with Arkansas audiences, support fellow filmmakers and build credibility within the local film scene,” she said. “These connections help grow our careers without needing to leave the state, strengthening Arkansas’ industry and creating jobs at home.”

For the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS), hosting the Rock City Film Festival at the Ron Robinson Theater aligns perfectly with its mission to inspire learning and foster community engagement through storytelling. “Hosting the Rock City Film Festival at CALS Ron Robinson Theater is a win for both the city of Little Rock and the Central Arkansas Library System,” said Joey Cole, the theater’s manager. “It brings filmmakers, creatives and audiences together in the heart of downtown, driving cultural tourism and showcasing our city as a vibrant hub for the arts. The festival helps shine a spotlight on local voices while connecting us to national and international talent, all from the big screen in our beloved theater.”

By providing a space for networking and showcasing Arkansas talent, the Rock City Film Festival continues to play a vital role in the state’s thriving film community, proving that Arkansas is more than just a backdrop for films—it’s a place where filmmaking flourishes.