Who We Are
In its inaugural year, the First Take festival is aimed at show-casing talent from both the independent film and music industry as well as visual artists.
With the explosion of the film festival market, the circuit has become less about giving new and upcoming artists a platform as it has become just another vehicle for mainstream to strut their “artistic” side. First Take strives to be a return to the festivals of the late eighties and early nineties where visionary young filmmakers, musicians, and now visual artists, can premier the next great song, sculpture, or feature. As a result, the materials the founders will be looking for will be edgy, against-the-grain, and possibly even controversial.
As a result, the festival and it’s founders look to bring together various artistic genres to people and an area that may not usually (or easily be exposed) to such varied thought and view point. These different perspectives and the people that represent them (often from different age and ethnic demographics) will have the opportunity to interact in away that may not be normally afforded.
In addition, with the ever changing marketplace, the festival is intended to also act as a trade show where vendors can come and display the latest technology, equipment, and products. Thereby, introducing the artists of the future to the companies of the future.
The goal from the beginning is to create an event that would act as a tool for creative people and the companies they work with to develop their careers, to bring together people from a wide area to meet and share ideas. That will continue to be the goal of tomorrow whether it is music, film, photography or the internet, to name a few.
However, what makes First Take Film Festival truly unique is its location. Held in Augusta, GA at the same time as the legendary Masters Golf Tournament, the First Take Film Festival allows its participants access to a world class event. During that time, Augusta becomes the central stage where for one week the world’s best athletes, business men, and celebrities converge. Rather than having to entice A-listers to attend, the festival can simply tap into the wealth of industry leaders already located in the area. Add to the mix a now bustling artistic community located in the city of Atlanta, a mere two hour drive away, and the ingredients make this a one-of a kind endeavor.