LANE DOC FEST Announces Its Third Edition: Award and Gala Show on October 5, 2024

JACKSON, TENNESSEE, September 10, 2024 – Lane Doc Fest will host its third annual prestigious international documentary film festival awards and gala event on October 5, 2024, at the renowned Chambers-McClure Theater located within Lane College. The evening will begin at 5:00 PM honoring our esteemed guests, followed by the grandeur of the red-carpet awards ceremony and gala show. This captivating event features a meeting with Jackson local hero Coach Abernathy and a music performance by the legendary JD Taylor of Little Boys Blue. It is open to the public, filmmakers, students, and our distinguished guests alike. The event will be MC’d by Keith Davis and Keri Baughman.

Lane Doc Fest, an annual tradition, serves as a platform to showcase independent documentary films that illuminate critical social issues, human essence, environmental concerns, and cultural awareness. By bringing a diverse array of international films to our community, Lane Doc Fest embodies the pinnacle of cinematic and visual artistry, highlighting both local talents and filmmakers from around the world. This year, Lane Doc Fest received submissions from over 400 films spanning 68 countries, including works recognized at prestigious festivals like Berlinale, Cannes, Sundance, IDFA, and Sheffield. Our esteemed panel of judges includes globally acclaimed, award-winning filmmakers and a diverse range of industry professionals.

A highlight of this year’s festivities is the world premiere of the short documentary film “Painting Victory: The Journey of Coach Ron Abernathy.” It tells the inspiring story of Coach Ron Abernathy’s rise alongside basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, highlighting their triumphs, challenges, and enduring legacy as Jackson’s local basketball coach. In addition, Lane Doc Fest is honoring Shaquille O’Neal as a recipient of the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award. Shaquille O’Neal is a retired NBA basketball player renowned for his dominant presence as a center who won four NBA championships and was a 15-time All-Star. Since retiring, he’s been active in the media, business, and philanthropy.

This year’s event is sponsored by many local businesses and Lane College, as well as Magic Korea, for their generosity in sharing K-Beauty products to promote Korean culture and encourage cultural diversity. Additionally, LANE DOC FEST and LANE DOC INSTITUTE have launched a special program aimed at empowering youth and helping them become proficient leaders in their chosen career paths. This initiative includes career counseling and a range of professional development opportunities.