A standout moment was the premiere of The Games in Black and White, a documentary reflecting on the 1996 Atlanta Olympics through the lens of race and civil rights. We had the honor of interviewing civil rights icon Andrew Young and Olympic organizer Billy Payne, who shared how the games shaped not only Atlanta’s global image but also empowered the Black community. Surrounded by activists and leaders, the film sparked dialogue around progress and pride — offering a moving tribute to a pivotal moment in the city’s history.

On the more star-studded side, we caught up with actor Omar Epps and rapper-turned-actor 2 Chainz at the premiere of Red Clay, a gritty Southern drama packed with secrets, suspense, and strong storytelling. Epps shared how the film captures the soul of the South, while 2 Chainz opened up about stepping into a more serious role. Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen respect for Southern culture made Red Clay one of the most talked-about premieres of the festival.

Another unforgettable moment came when we spoke with Ray McKinnon — actor, filmmaker, and Southern cinema veteran. In an STR exclusive, McKinnon revealed that a Prison Break reboot is officially in the works. While details are still under wraps, he hinted at new twists, deeper character arcs, and even filming in Atlanta. The reboot news quickly became one of the hottest headlines of the festival.