The Filmer 7 showcase, presented by South Fulton Arts, brought together a remarkable collection of films celebrating the power of storytelling. One of the standout projects was Beyond the Script, a documentary directed by Dr. Arshley Emile, which explored the history and cultural impact of the Academy Theatre. Through immersive storytelling and a masterful eye for detail, the film captured the heart and history of this cherished cultural landmark.
For Dr. Arshley Emile, selecting the Academy Theatre as the subject of Beyond the Script was an easy decision.
“We had a list of locations to choose from, and the moment I saw Academy Theatre on the list, I immediately said, ‘I want this one.’ I wouldn’t take no for an answer,” Dr. Emile shared.
His determination paid off, and within a day, he received approval to start filming. With a tight timeline, Dr. Emile and his team shot the entire documentary in just one day, a testament to their dedication and efficiency.
Beyond the Script masterfully wove together personal interviews, archival footage, and immersive cinematography to bring the Academy Theatre’s legacy to life.
Robert Drake, the Academy Theatre’s Artistic Director since 2005, played a key role in shaping the documentary’s narrative and ensuring its authenticity.
“Everybody in the film is themselves, and that’s what I love about it,” Drake explained.
The natural presence of Brenda Porter and other featured voices added to the film’s emotional depth. Through thoughtful cinematography and storytelling, Beyond the Script allowed the subjects to speak for themselves, creating an intimate portrayal of the Academy Theatre’s history.
Bringing the Community Together
One of the most powerful aspects of the Filmer 7 showcase was its ability to unite people through art. Drake highlighted the presence of influential artists like Alice Lovelace and Gyan Mata, as well as students from Kennesaw State University, who were experiencing the magic of the Academy Theatre for the first time.
“That’s what I love about this—bringing everyone together. We’re all different, but at the same time, we’re all the same. There’s a shared passion for the arts and community, and honestly, tonight feels like a dream come true.”
A key part of Beyond the Script involved diving into the Academy Theatre’s extensive archives. Drake credited Lauren, the Managing Director of the theater for over two decades, and Dr. Emile for helping him uncover historical footage that enriched the film’s narrative.
One particularly moving moment featured the words of Lynne H. Pendarvis, whose reflection on identity resonated deeply.
“There’s this one piece where she says, ‘I wish I could know what it was to be Black truly.’ That moment hit me hard,” Drake revealed. “It was so important to include that—to represent not only the African American experience but also the universal human experience of self-discovery and identity.”
The Academy Theatre has nurtured some of the most recognizable names in the entertainment industry, including Samuel L. Jackson, David Hasselhoff, Brenda Porter, and Betty Hart.
“The Academy Theatre’s alumni roster is just incredible,” Drake said. “Samuel L. Jackson and his wife are both Academy Theatre alumni. David Hasselhoff too. It’s amazing to see the impact this place has had.”
Honoring Frank Wittow’s Vision
Beyond the Script is dedicated to Frank Wittow, the founder of the Academy Theatre, whose legacy continues to shape the institution. Wittow, a military veteran, discovered his passion for theater and established the Academy Theatre during the Civil Rights Movement, creating a space where people of all backgrounds could come together.
“That’s exactly why I’m the Artistic Director today—because of Frank Wittow’s vision,” said Drake. “He believed that theater could be a tool to create understanding and empathy between people. When you see a real person experiencing joy, suffering, and everything in between—it changes you.”
Under Dr. Arshley Emile’s direction, Beyond the Script is more than just a film—it’s a tribute to a theater that has shaped generations of artists and a celebration of the transformative power of storytelling. Thanks to South Fulton Arts and the Filmer 7 showcase, the legacy of the Academy Theatre will continue to inspire new audiences for years to come.
