In this episode, MediaMaker Spotlight producer Brandon Ferry hosts behind-the-scenes interviews with two more illuminating artists – direct from the 2025 Ebertfest film festival. First, Brandon speaks with writer-director Angus MacLachlan of 2005’s indie breakout film, JUNEBUG and the soon-to-be released A LITTLE PRAYER (starring David Strathairn, Jane Levy & Anna Camp). Prior to screening at this year’s Ebertfest, MacLachlan’s acclaimed drama debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, and follows a loving, but fractured family in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Humble servant and small business owner, Bill (Strathairn) tries to protect his daughter-in-law, Tammy (Levy) when he suspects his son may secretly be having an affair. Angus touches upon his writing process, the quietly powerful performances of Jane Levy and the legendary David Strathairn, as well as the tough road traveled to get his film distributed (now scheduled for theatrical release in the U.S. on August 29th, 2025!)
Next up, Brandon spotlights composer, concert organist, and specialist in silent film accompaniment, Dr. Steven Ball. As the official organist and composer at Ebertfest, Steven dazzled audiences with his own musical compositions and his takes on classic film scores leading into the festival’s film screenings. In this conversation, Steven dives deep into the history of silent film accompaniment, his journey becoming a scholar in music composition, and stories of performing as a concert organist as an Artist in Residence at the Tampa Theatre.
Learn more about Ebertfest Film Festival
Watch the trailer for Angus MacLachlan’s award-winning A LITTLE PRAYER –
planned for a limited U.S. theatrical release on August 29, 2025 through Music Box Films. Find showtimes in your area here.
To learn more about Steven Ball’s music compositions and view his silent film accompaniment performances, visit his website, his Facebook page and the Tampa Theatre Instagram page
