If you’re unfamiliar, the Defy Film Festival is an independent film festival put together “by filmmakers for filmmakers” that takes place over in East Nashville at Studio 615 with a film list that spans horror, experimental, drama, comedy, dramady, sci-fi and thriller. That is to say, it’s an eclectic offering of films put together by people that are immersed in the work of actually making the stuff. Over the last six years they’ve managed to grow to a size that feels both large and varietal but still intimate for those attending that want more than just a series of screenings.
This year’s festivities kick off on Friday, August 20th at 6pm and runs into the night of Saturday, August 21st. Passes are available for the whole weekend or just individual days. They even offer a free pass to visit their lobby, should you just want to stare into the gaping maw of two experimental films. A little something for everybody.
If you browse their Instagram or click around through the various film blocks you might not see a whole lot that you recognize in terms of titles or directors but that seems to be entirely the point. Defy has created an event for film lovers to discover new peers and be inspired by fresh works, as well as provide a platform for creators to have their work seen by the ideal audience. The names may not be recognizable name but it’s a safe bet that you’ll be hearing more from all of these folks later on.
The film community in Nashville can be extremely small, particularly for those pursuing purely creative endeavors. We applaud Defy for consistently putting together a substantial – yet accessible – event for the independent creators. Do yourself a favor and pick up a pass.