The Macon Film Festival is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a hybrid event that includes online and in-person screenings, Q&A’s, and workshops. The online portion of the 2020 Macon Film Festival will be hosted by Film Festival Flix, a streaming platform that provides a curated virtual experience. Patrons will be able to stream the 2020 submissions on the FilmFestivalFlix.com website or through their mobile apps.
One of the featured theatrical screenings will be Chuck Leavell: The Tree Man, a cinematic documentary that explores the world’s fascination with the greatest piano and keyboardist over the last 40 years. The documentary follows Leavell’s story as he divides his talent between music, forests, and family. Go behind the stage to hear from the Rolling Stones, Allman Brothers Band, the Black Crowes, Blues Traveler, Gov’t Mule, John Mayer, Pink Floyd, and others from an on-tour point of view. Featuring Chuck Leavell, Former President Jimmy Carter, Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Chris Robinson, Dr. John, David Gilmore, and others.
Director Allen Farst will present the film at the Macon Film Festival. Farst is an acclaimed American filmmaker and producer whose most notable work is in action sports, music, documentaries, and high-end commercials. The film’s focus is on Leavell’s legendary musical career and his passion for tree farming and environmental stewardship. Filming started in early 2017 and wrapped at the end of 2019. The film won The People’s Choice Award at the 26th Annual Sedona International Film Festival.
“Chuck’s story is more than music. It’s about life, love, and our precious world we live in”, says Farst. “The story is like a circle, the top 180 is his career in music. The bottom 180 is a mix of a love story and his life work in forestry. You will laugh and cry at all of the right moments. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did filming it.”
Chuck Leavell: The Tree Man will be screened at the Grand Opera House at 7:30pm on Friday, August 14th.