Georgia Entertainment will welcome guests to the 2025 Rome International Film Festival with the RIFF Kickoff, presented by Georgia Highlands College and Southern Isle Pictures. The event will take place Nov. 6 at 4:00 p.m. at the historic DeSoto Theatre. RSVP Here.
The RIFF Kickoff will feature industry insights, professional networking and film celebration designed to launch the Rome International Film Festival. The event brings together local officials, entertainment industry professionals and film enthusiasts to highlight Georgia’s growing role in film and digital media production.
“We are honored to partner with the Rome International Film Festival this year,” said Randy Davidson, founder and CEO of Georgia Entertainment. “This event illustrates the prestige of the festival to draw high level talent and top entertainment executives from around the world to this special place. We are grateful that Southern Isle Pictures and Georgia Highlands College have made our Kickoff event possible through their support.”
The evening will begin with a panel on Georgia Highlands College’s new Bachelor of Science degree in digital media and communication, followed by a panel on Georgia’s film finance and production. Panelists and guest speakers include John Thomas, Kristy Clabaugh, David Sutherland, Jessica Lindberg, Glen Owen, Dan Kelly, Champ Bailey, Seth Ingram and others.
Following the panels, there will be a VIP happy hour mixer.
The evening will conclude with a screening of “Signing Tony Raymond” at the DeSoto Theatre. The RIFF Kickoff underscores Georgia Entertainment’s commitment to supporting local film initiatives and showcasing the state’s entertainment industry. The event serves as an introduction to the Rome International Film Festival, connecting industry professionals with the local community.
