Our judge pool consists of professionals who have written, produced, directed, or appeared in short films, features, and TV series. All have IMDb credits or equivalent experience. For confidentiality, we do not disclose which judges scored which films.
Stephen Sherwood
Festival Director
Founder and director of Southern Shorts Awards, dedicated to providing filmmakers with professional feedback and recognition for their craft.
IMDB Profile
Kevin L. Powers
Program Director & Filmmaker
Former Program Director for the Gwinnett Center International Film Festival, writer/producer/director with over fifteen years in independent film. Currently working on a new feature film in Georgia.
IMDB Profile
Steve Anderson
Director of Photography & Colorist
Seasoned professional with credits on features, TV shows, commercials, and documentaries including "America's Castles," "A Man Named Pearl," and "Restore America."
IMDB Profile
Ted Rubin
Producer
Experienced producer on many local productions with work spanning almost every facet of film production. Known for combining Hollywood standards with Southern hospitality.
Deborah Childs
Actress & Executive Board Member
Professional actress performing in the Atlanta area since 2000. Executive Board member of Georgia Production Partnership and performer in the longest running play in Atlanta theatre history.
IMDB Profile
Brian W. Peterson
Screenwriter & Novelist
Screenwriter and novelist with a degree in TV, Film, and Radio. Has published five novels and released the acclaimed Star Trek fan film "The Lost Starship."
Website
Judge Selection Criteria
Requirements
- IMDb credits or equivalent professional experience
- Active work in film, video production, or education
- Experience across multiple aspects of filmmaking
- Commitment to constructive, educational feedback
Areas of Expertise
- Writing, directing, and producing
- Cinematography and visual storytelling
- Acting and performance evaluation
- Post-production and technical craft