ABOUT
Old Times Not Forgotten Film Festival was created in honor of my son, Brett Jones. At an early age Brett had a passion for film and knew it was the career he wanted. At the age of five he started setting up the camera on his own and acting in front of it. In middle school he began making short videos with his friends.
While attending Derby High School, he was a videographer for the athletic department and made numerous short films that won several awards. Brett graduated from Derby High School in 2019 and began attending the University of Arizona as a film student. Whenever he came home to Derby, he would go to the high school to speak to the film students. Brett wanted to do whatever he could to help students achieve their goals as filmmakers by giving them insight, encouragement, and support.
While at the University of Arizona, he was again a videographer for the athletic department and made numerous short films. Brett won a Student Emmy/Student Production Award for Best College Nonfiction short form for “Something to Fear”, which was about his former Derby classmate, Kennedy Brown. The following year, for his senior thesis project, Brett created “Old Times Not Forgotten” which has won awards for Best College Director and Best College Film. On May 12, 2023, Brett graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art in Film and Television and then moved to Georgia, to begin his cinematography career.
Unfortunately, on January 4, 2024, Brett passed away in a car accident. After his passing, I discovered that he had submitted his film, “Old Times Not Forgotten” to several film festivals, before his death. I started attending these film festivals, as I had for the previous 8 years, but this time in his place. During this process, I was inspired to create this film festival in his honor.
Our goal for the Old Times Not Forgotten Film Festival is to share Brett's passion for film and helping others. We hope to support and encourage current and aspiring filmmakers.
OUR SPONSORS
From the bottom of our hearts, we are so appreciative of your generous sponsorship! As a non-profit organization, you are enabling us to give an incredible experience to aspiring filmmakers and our community. We could not express enough gratitude for your generosity!
​
.png)
WINNERS
Your Film Could Be Showcased Here
​
RESERVED FOR BEST OF THE FESTIVAL
GUEST SPEAKER
​L. Tanner Smith is a young filmmaker who grew up in Manila, Arkansas before settling in the Kansas City, Kansas area. Smith started filmmaking at a young age and has won numerous awards. Smith has a degree in Digital Filmmaking from the University of Central Arkansas. Smith directs, produces, co-writes, and even acts in his movies. Smith has made comedies, dramas, documentaries, and short films. He has directed nearly 50 movies and shorts’ including eight features and the number is still rising!
L. Tanner Smith said, “I live and breathe film! I’m a filmmaker, a film critic, a film…viewer! Just talk to me about film!"
That is exactly what we intend to do as we are honored to have L.Tanner Smith as a speaker at Old Times Not Forgotten Film Festival!
Our Venue
Derby Plaza Theater
FILM FESTIVAL FEATURES
Old Times Not Forgotten Film Festival will offer a unique platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent and connect with a diverse audience. We will provide opportunities for networking and discussions to enrich the cinematic experience.
Film Screenings
Experience a curated selection of compelling films that inspire, entertain, and provoke thoughtful conversations.
Interactive Sessions
Engage in interactive sessions with industry professionals and fellow film enthusiasts to gain insights and broaden your perspective.
Networking Events
Connect with like-minded individuals and build lasting relationships within the vibrant community of filmmakers and artists.