Moonless International Film Festival

The Moonless International Film Festival is more than a celebration of creativity—it’s a non-profit festival dedicated to making a lasting impact.

Our mission goes beyond honoring incredible filmmakers, screenwriters, musicians, authors, and artists worldwide. We are committed to reinvesting directly into the community, with a special focus on supporting and growing opportunities in the arts.

Every submission, every event, and every partnership helps us continue to create programs that inspire creativity, open new doors for local and global artists, and strengthen the cultural fabric of our community.

When you participate in the Moonless International Film Festival, you're not just showcasing your talent — you're helping build a brighter future for the arts.

A glamorous woman in a red gown walks the red carpet at the Moonless International Film Festival, surrounded by flashing cameras and a crowd of attendees — capturing the excitement, elegance, and celebration of independent art and global creativity.

Meet the Hosts

Meet the spectacular Hosts of the 2025 Moonless International Film Festival Awards Show being held on May 18, 2025 at the esteemed Sumter Opera House.

Jacklyn Collier, host of the Moonless International Film Festival, smiling in a red plaid shirt with a soft pink background — known for her work in entertainment and storytelling especially with Hallmark.
  • ACTRESS & PRODUCER

    Our Co-Host starts with the Amazingly Talented Jacklyn Collier, actress, producer, and co-founder of The Bundle Game. She is best known for co-hosting Hallmark Channel ’s The Bubbly Sesh, the Hallmarkies Podcast , and Deck The Hallmark Podcast . Her standout roles include The Engagement Plot, Fit for Christmas, and The Deuce.

    Her vibrant personality and love for storytelling make her the perfect fit to lead this celebration of entertainment.

Breanne Heldman, co-host of the Moonless International Film Festival and Television & Events Editor at People Magazine, smiling in a professional headshot.

Meet the 2025 Special Guests

  • Erin Cahill, honored guest of the Moonless International Film Festival, known for her beloved Hallmark movie roles, posing in a beige blazer and white top — with personalized autographs available in the official festival store.

    ERIN CAHILL

    ACTRESS, PRODUCER, & HALLMARK LEADING LADY

    Erin Cahill is a celebrated American actress and producer, best known as a beloved leading lady of the Hallmark Channel. With warmth, grace, and emotional depth, Erin has starred in numerous fan-favorite films including Sleigh Bells Ring, A Timeless Christmas, Christmas Bedtime Stories, Hearts in the Game, and most recently, Journey to You, which premiered Easter weekend 2025.

    Rising to fame as the Pink Ranger in Power Rangers Time Force, Erin has since built a diverse career with roles on Grey’s Anatomy, NCIS: Los Angeles, Supernatural, and more, as well as voice work in blockbuster games like Call of Duty: Black Ops II and Resident Evil: Vendetta.

    Beyond the screen, Erin is a passionate philanthropist and advocate. She actively supports buildOn, which empowers youth through education and service, and The Kindness Campaign, focused on emotional health for children.

    Known for her heartfelt storytelling and commitment to meaningful work, Erin continues to inspire as one of Hallmark’s most cherished stars and a true ambassador of kindness and connection.

  • Karen Waldrup, acclaimed singer and special guest at the Moonless International Film Festival, posing with her hand under her chin, wearing a pearl-studded top and styled blonde hair against a rustic wood backdrop

    KAREN WALDRUP

    SINGER & SONGWRITER

    Waldrup is a BMI songwriter, a member of NARAS/The Recording Academy (the “Grammy” organization), the CMA’s, and has partnered with Mission of Hope: Haiti.

    Waldrup was a Top 5 Finalist on Season 25 of NBC's The Voice and has been featured in Rolling Stone Magazine, People Magazine, Netflix, The Hallmark Channel, Bravo TV, Facebook Artist of the Day, NASCAR ESPN Live, the NFL Experience Superbowl XLVII, CMT, Fox, Military.com and hundreds of other outlets world-wide. She has scored 12 Nashville Industry Music Awards and won the 2019 Torch Award from the Keith Whitley Fingerprint on Country Music Awards. Waldrup was named 2023 Top 5 Artist to Watch by Country Evolution. She just released her newest song "Louisiana Hurricane" and is preparing to release her new singles "Fix It" March 2025 and "Blue Cowboy Boots" May 2025. She has recorded 7 studio albums and released over 50 songs internationally.

  • JULIA REILLY

    ACTRESS, WRITER, & PRODUCER

    Julia Reilly is a 25-year-old American actress known for her roles in both television and film. She gained recognition for her portrayal of Tammy Thompson in Season 4 of Netflix's "Stranger Things," where her character's off-key rendition of the national anthem at a school pep rally provided a memorable moment in the series.

    Reilly stars as Dani Miller in the faith-based medical drama "County Rescue," which premiered in 2024 on Great American Family and Pure Flix. The series follows the lives of EMTs and paramedics, with Reilly's character navigating personal and professional challenges. She has expressed that working on this show has deepened her own faith, aligning with the spiritual themes of the series.

    In addition to her television work, Reilly played Amy March in the 2024 holiday film "A Little Women’s Christmas," a modern retelling of the classic story. Her film credits also include roles in "A View to Kill For" (2023) and "The Secrets She Keeps" (2021).

    Born on May 23, 2000, Reilly hails from the Atlanta area. She began her performing arts journey in dance and musical theater before transitioning to film and television. A graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in acting, she is also a trained singer and musician, proficient in guitar, ukulele, and piano.

    Reilly continues to build her career with upcoming projects and remains active in the entertainment industry.

  • Sirilak Colon, actress and producer of the SWAT film series beginning with SWAT: Athena’s Protocol, featured as a special guest at the Moonless International Film Festival — with personalized autographs available.

    SIRILAK COLON

    ACTRESS, PRODUCER, & CASTING DIRECTOR

    Sirilak Colon is a very talented actress, producer, & casting director. Her love for acting began when she was offered a role as a police officer in the Indie film "Keys: The Biggest Bank Heist." This sparked her love for film and production.

    Along with acting and production, Sirilak has a talent for martial arts (such as Muay Thai) and can handle heavy artillery from prior weapons training. She later starred in "Walker Texas Ranger" and a "John Wick 4" promo for ESPN. She received an award with the RCCI for "Best Documentary" for her story as a survivor of domestic violence. She acts as an advocate awareness to stop domestic violence and support women.

  • RockDiesel Santiago Colòn, actor, stuntman, and stunt coordinator, wearing a grey pinstripe suit and purple shirt in a professional headshot — recognized for his dynamic roles and action expertise.

    ROCKDIESAL SANTIAGO COLON

    ACTOR, STUNTS, & STUNT COORDINATOR

    Raul colon was born in Bronx, Ny 1970 to Puerto Rican parents . At the age of 6, Raul became a foster child and moved to Watertown Connecticut where he was raised by his foster parents Mel and Virginia Lee Gabey. Raul was one of the few children they kept in their care long term. Eventually, Raul and his new found family move to Florida where he still lives today. He found his love of acting in the shows he watched with his mother and always wanted to be a Cowboy. Raul's journey in life first began as a boxer at the age of 14 which lead him to become a body builder and a cagefighter. In 2012, After a cage match he was asked to do some stunt work on an indiefilm which finally lead him down the path to pursue his dream of acting.

    Since then, Raul colon has been in many films both in the indie market and the main stream market, as a stunt fighter, stunt coordinator and actor. Some of his films include Pain and Gain, Aztec warrior, Graceland (stunts), he as well; stunt doubled for Marcus Taylor in the movie called Paying Mr. Mcgetty, worked along side Dwayne Johnson in an episode of Ballers and served as stunt coordinator in quite a few indie films. Raul has taken the industry by storm and has proven to be quite a formidable up and coming actor and stuntman.

  • Welsh Wolfe, singer and special guest of the Moonless International Film Festival, in a dramatic black-and-white portrait, wearing a dark shirt with sunlight casting shadows across his face

    WELSH WOLF

    SINGER & SONGWRITER

    Electric and dynamic, Welsh Wolf has emerged as a must-see Artist in the Los Angeles scene. The current single “When You Cry” is an alternative smash that doesn’t shy away from its catchy, melodic songwriting. “When You Cry” signals the coming of Welsh Wolf's debut EP, due out in early 2025.

    Helmed by singer/songwriter Paul Freeman, Welsh Wolf is a departure from Freeman’s roots as a wildly successful songwriter and performer. Freeman, who is no stranger to big moments, has toured the world and performed with a veritable “who’s who” of pop and rock music: James Blunt, The Who, Chris Cornell, and Brandi Carlisle just to name a few.

    He’s played guitar on Blunt’s iconic recording of “You’re Beautiful,” written a Top-40 Billboard hit for Sleeping with Sirens, and has written songs covered by Robbie Williams, Meat Loaf, and Mark Owen of Take That. He has landed incredible syncs over the years in films including "The Break-Up”, as well as, hit TV shows "Jessica Jones” and “Insatiable”.

  • Jerrod Williams, a proud Sumter, SC native and special VIP guest at the Moonless International Film Festival, wearing a white suit with a red tie and jeweled crown, seated on a stool against a black background.

    JERROD WILLIAMS

    ACTOR & MODEL

    Jerrod Williams is a dedicated and humble actor and model whose passion for storytelling is evident in every project he undertakes. He began his professional journey with Bellah Modeling Agency in 2022 and quickly distinguished himself within the entertainment industry through his diverse performances in television and film. Raised in a supportive and nurturing environment, Jerrod credits his success to his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, and perseverance. Despite his growing recognition, he remains deeply family-oriented and consistently expresses gratitude for the opportunities he has received.

    Jerrod's television credits include appearances on Max’s "The Righteous Gemstones" and the second season of "Secrets in Plain Sight." His film accomplishments feature notable roles such as the lead character William in "Diaries of the Miller Family: Part 2," which premiered in theaters in August 2024, and the lead role of Curtis in "Asking For A Friend," streaming on Tubi TV. Additionally, he portrayed Pastor in "Against All Odds," appeared in a background role for Pure Flix’s "God’s Not Dead," and took on the character of Mr. Brown in the independent film "Cream of the Crop."

    Jerrod's dedication to his craft has earned him a prestigious scholarship from BET, highlighting his commitment to continuous growth and excellence in the entertainment field. With ongoing projects like "Reflection of the Inner Me," where he leads as Benjamin, Jerrod Williams continues to inspire audiences through his genuine performances and humble demeanor. His promising career trajectory ensures he will remain a captivating presence in entertainment for years to come.

  • Spencer Folmar, filmmaker and special guest of the Moonless International Film Festival, smiling in a tuxedo while holding a microphone on stage against a dramatic black background.

    SPENCER FOLMAR

    WRITER, PRODUCER, DIRECTOR, & TALENT MANAGER

    Director & Producer Spencer T. Folmar's theatrical debut, "Generational Sins," has spurred a national debate surrounding the interplay of faith and film. The New York Post, The Los Angeles Times, FOX, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, Washington Times, CBN, Christian Post, and more have all joined the conversation in about the film's release. In response, Folmar coined the term "Hard Faith" to describe this new genre of film, written for audiences who are hungry for hope in the midst of gritty real-life stories.

    Folmar's career began at the ambitious age of 17 when he directed and produced his first feature film. He then continued to his undergraduate and post-graduate academic career. Folmar attended NYU for his MFA in film and received his Master's in Theology from Reformed Theological Seminary. His desire to combine these two passions is a driving force in his current slate of films. Folmar's goal is to "Shine light in the darkness by telling stories of hope."

    In 2018, Folmar formed the non-profit Veritas Arts INC and started on another new endeavor of owning a historic theatre. Veritas Arts acquired the historic Guthrie Theatre in Grove City, Pennsylvania. Under the Veritas Arts name, Folmar also started a film festival in western PA. Veritas Arts mission is "Tell Stories That Liberate" and do so with education, distribution, financing, and developing feature films.

    While planning another film, Folmar felt compelled to bring light to the overwhelming opioid epidemic ravaging America. When he visited his home in central Pennsylvania, and after hearing so many heartbreaking stories he felt the best way to bring attention in the media was through film. "Shooting Heroin" was then brought to life. A film about a small town taking justice into their own hands to stop the spread of drugs by whatever means possible. This movie began its theatrical tour in 2019 and is planning a wide release in the first quarter of 2020.

  • RICHARD MOFE-DAMIJO (RMD)

    ACTOR

    Popularly known as RMD, Richard Mofe-Damijo was born July 6, 1961 he is a Nigerian actor and politician. In 2005 he won the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Since January 2009 he is the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State, Nigeria. Mofe-Damijo was born in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. He attended Midwest College, Warri and Anglican Grammar School and was a member of the Drama Club. He enrolled into the University of Benin to continue his education and studied Theatre Arts. In 1997 Mofe-Damijo returned to the university to study law at the University of Lagos and graduated in 2004.

    His current productions include Revelations, Children of Blood and Bone starring Idris Elba and Viola Davis, Legacy, Somewhere Else, and The Culture to name a few.

    He will be receiving the Visionary Award at this year’s Moonless International Film Festival.

  • TANYA PRICE

    ACTRESS, PRODUCER, & WRITER

    Tanya is a film producer, an award winning actress, and published model (international actress and model.) Owner of Queen Tutt Productions. Tanya has been published in over 20 magazines and has graced the cover of several of these magazines. Tanya is based in the US, but loves to travel! In 2023 she set her travel record by visiting 12 countries in one year (but anywhere with a beach is always her favorite!)

    Her credits include Revelations, I Luv U, The Vanished, Prescription for Love, and currently she is working on several other productions including her own feature film, The Shape of Halloween.

    We are especially honored to have her as she accepts the Visionary Award for RMD at the Awards Show on Sunday.

  • MARK WILLIAMS

    WRITER, PRODUCER & DIRECTOR

    Mark Williams is the writer, producer, and director behind this year’s premiere feature film, Mary’s Lake. The film was shot locally in Sumter, SC and featured amazing talent from the Sumter Little Theatre.

    After serving 23 years in the military, Mark retired and his dream of making movies became a reality with Mary’s Lake. We are honored to have Mark as one of our esteemed panel members to talk about the challenges of film making and how he overcame them with local support from the community.

    Look for more great things from Mark and ALL of the talent in Mary’s Lake.

  • RICHARD ROSSI

    DIRECTOR & WRITER

    Richard Rossi is an American filmmaker, author, musician, and former evangelical minister, renowned for his multifaceted contributions to the arts. Born on March 2, 1963, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Rossi has directed several feature films, including Sister Aimee: The Aimee Semple McPherson Story, Baseball’s Last Hero: 21 Clemente Stories, and Canaan Land, the latter of which was considered for an Academy Award.

    In collaboration with retired schoolteacher Kelly Tabor, Rossi co-authored the children's book Lucy & the Lake Monster, inspired by the folklore of Champ, the legendary sea serpent of Lake Champlain. The story follows a nine-year-old orphan named Lucy and her grandfather, "Papa," as they embark on a quest to prove Champ's existence, serving as an allegory for faith and resilience.

    Rossi directed and starred in the film adaptation of the book, portraying Papa alongside Emma Pearson as Lucy. The film was shot on location in Crown Point, New York, and premiered in 2024, receiving multiple awards on the film festival circuit.

    Beyond filmmaking, Rossi has written several books, including Stick Man: The Long-Awaited Coming-of-Age Novel and Create Your Life, and has composed over 1,000 songs. He continues to be active in various creative endeavors, often exploring themes of spirituality and personal transformation.

  • KELLY TABOR CROMER

    AUTHOR, WRITER, & DIRECTOR

    Kelly Tabor Cromer is an American author, educator, and filmmaker best known as the co-author of Lucy and the Lake Monster, a children's book inspired by her childhood experiences in Crown Point, New York, near Lake Champlain. The story follows a nine-year-old orphan named Lucy and her grandfather as they search for the legendary lake monster, Champ. The book, co-written with filmmaker Richard Rossi, was published in 2022 and later adapted into an award-winning feature film.

    Cromer dedicated 32 years to teaching, primarily in Greenville County, South Carolina, where she shared tales of Champ with her students, fostering their imagination and love for storytelling. Her passion for education and storytelling seamlessly transitioned into her literary and film endeavors.

    In the film adaptation of Lucy and the Lake Monster, Cromer took on multiple roles, serving as co-writer, assistant director, and portraying the character Miss Marino, Lucy's schoolteacher. The film has been recognized for its themes of faith, resilience, and anti-bullying, resonating with audiences and earning accolades at various film festivals.

    Cromer continues to inspire through her storytelling, drawing from her rich background in education and her deep-rooted connection to the folklore of Lake Champlain.