Dozens of films set for Sunset Film Festival in Asheboro

ASHEBORO — The second annual “Mightier Than the Sword” awards show will be part of the Sunset Film Festival this week at Sunset Theatre.

Organizer Ty Brueilly of Asheboro has lined up a variety of guests to supplement the show.

Preliminary activities begin midweek before the main attractions Friday and Saturday. Thursday has been reserved for a variety of North Carolina-based films.

In total, at least 75 films will be shown. Most of those fall into the category of short films.

Brueilly said shorts, music videos, documentaries and independent and major features will be part of the festival.

There are panels that provide question-and-answer opportunities with filmmakers and the making of an on-stage podcast.

Brueilly has lined up director Richard Elfman to be on hand for the showing of his first film, “Forbidden Zone.” That’s a flick that Brueilly refers to as a “cult classic.” Elfman will watch the film with the audience.

Elfman’s “Aliens, Clowns & Geeks” and his most-recent film, “Bloody Bridget” are also scheduled to be shown. “Bloody Bridget” features Anastasia Elfman, the director’s wife.

The final film, to be shown late Saturday night, is “Cannibal Comedian.”

Rob Underhill has been named the recipient of the “Distinctive Director” award for the festival.

“With over 100 films on his resume, (he has had) an incredible impact in the North Carolina film scene,” Brueilly said.

Also, sculptor Casey Mull of Hickory will have work on display. They will be positioned on each side of the stage.

“Casey Mull’s participation in this event will help enhance and make it more of an authentic true festival,” Brueilly said.

Brueilly said last January’s film festival drew attendance of close to 1,000.