Alabama isn’t the first place you think of when it comes to filmmaking, but many would be surprised by the amount of involvement the state has played in film productions throughout cinema history. Film productions in Alabama go as far back as the 1940s and continue to strive forward into recent years; however, these productions are not only limited to major studios coming in from out of town. Alabama filmmakers from across the state have all put their talents on display with their vivid short films and independent features. In addition to the many productions we’ve had here, Alabama has also been the home of many stars that have made their marks in film, from audaciously bold directors like Daniel Scheinert to powerful award-winning actors like Octavia Spencer. All in all, Alabama film has contributed something special to the entertainment industry in more ways than one, and that’s why Sidewalk Cinema is proud to celebrate all these accomplishments made by Alabama filmmakers.
Alabama Spotlight Weekend is Sidewalk Cinema’s new tradition of celebrating Alabama film on the big screen! Throughout the weekend, we’ll be highlighting Alabama’s influence on cinema with an eclectic selection of repertory features and a variety of short films made by Alabama filmmakers.
The 2026 selection includes the following:
Aliens 40th Anniversary (1986)—7 years after Ridley Scott’s original sci-fi horror classic hit theaters, James Cameron takes over the directing chair for one of the most celebrated sequels that boldly elaborated this cinematic universe into one exciting thrill ride. Blending horror, action, and science fiction together keeps Anniston native Michael Biehn on their toes in their memorable performance as Cpl. Hicks. This 80s classic showed even more potential in the world of sci-fi. And with our featured star from Alabama, it goes to show that even in some of the biggest pop culture classics, a bit of Alabama finds its way to be a part of cinema history.
Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power (2022)—The civil rights movement and Alabama go hand-in-hand with one another, as so many people have fought and sacrificed for change, continuing to fight that same fight today. The directing duo of Geeta Gandbhir and Sam Pollard put a special spotlight on the real tremendous efforts made by real people right here in Alabama, carefully crafting pieces of history that have previously been overshadowed. Documentaries like this one challenge us to better understand the past so that we can build a better future for us not only in Alabama but all over the country.
Muscle Shoals (2013)—Looking back at major artists like The Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Bob Seger, and more, all found a place to make some incredible music right here in a little tucked-away corner of Alabama. This festival alumni film makes a long-awaited return to Sidewalk by giving an inside look at an unlikely bunch in an unlikely place creating a hot spot in the music industry with a lasting impact.
They Cloned Tyrone (2023)—Never underestimate the capacity for genre-heavy films to tackle complex themes that are both socially engaging and deliriously fun to watch! Tuskegee native Juel Taylor does the most with his solo feature directorial debut as he presents an examination of the black experience but wraps it confidently in a wildly ecstatic form that never loses sight of its purpose. A film such as this gives assurance that originality still exists in the film industry; all it takes is the right ambition and creative thought to make it possible.
Alabama Shorts Showcase Vol. 2: Block 1 + Block 2 — It’s always great to see local filmmakers working their creative muscles in a wide variety of stories that show just how much great talent we have here in Alabama. Making short films is a great format for filmmakers to find their voices as well as other fellow creatives that can build communities, which in turn create even more opportunities for filmmakers to grow. Our Alabama filmmakers— no matter their experience level— continue to demonstrate their creative craft and we look forward to seeing them further develop those crafts.
Plus, we have several FREE EVENTS throughout the week, including:
April 23: Tape Night presented by Dust on the VCR – Are you eager to relive your youth by basking in the retro glow of outdated media formats? Are you curious about the video store era that you missed out on by being cursed with a late birth? Then join Jeremy Burgess of the Dust On The VCR newsletter for Tape Night, a free quarterly event where you’ll get to witness an actual VHS tape projected onto the big screen in all its glory! The titles will remain a mystery until showtime, and the genres will rotate with every screening (check the graphic for hints!), but one thing’s for certain: You won’t find these classics in splendid low-definition anywhere else in town.
April 24: All Night Long 80s Flashback – “Oh! What a feeling!” ‘Cause we are kicking off Alabama Spotlight Weekend with an “all night long” ‘80’s Party! It’s a ‘Fiesta Forever’ dance party celebrating 40 years of the 1986 best-selling LP, Dancing on the Ceiling by Alabama native Lionel Richie, which features the Golden Globe and Oscar-winning song “Say You, Say Me.” Featuring DJ mixing by Tony Rodio + pop up features, specialty cocktails, retro decor, rad party essentials & more! And if “U got the look,” dress in your best ‘80s gear for a chance to win a nostalgic time capsule full of flashback novelties and Sidewalk swag.
April 25 + 26: Mix & Mingle Happy Hour – Join us for a special happy hour mixer in the Sidewalk lobby while enjoying Alabama-inspired specialty cocktails on the menu, exclusive lobby programming and a curated playlist celebrating the music of FAME, Muscle Shoals and much more. Connect + network with Alabama creatives and the filmmaking community during this celebration of Alabama Spotlight Weekend.
Join us April 24 – 30 for Sidewalk’s Alabama Film Spotlight! Get tickets to all titles here.