Sounds laid down by the underground

Fans and filmmakers alike have long lamented the shortage of venues suitable for showcasing non-mainstream films in Atlanta, but with the emergence of the Atlanta Underground Film Festival, things will soon change. During the last week of August, AUFF co-founders Eric Panter, Stephanie Macksey, Lauren Kitchens and Jose Gross, and a staff of volunteers, have organized the first of what's planned to be an annual citywide event. Although showcasing film talent drives the festival, a slew of local musicians will be performing to spark a truly revolutionary atmosphere.

Occupying local music venues — including the Earl, MJQ's Drunken Unicorn and the Echo Lounge — and amorphous art spaces — such as Eyedrum and Art Farm — AUFF will feature films by national filmmakers, followed by performances from like-minded local musicians. Each night, loosely organized themes will be reflected in both the music and films. On Sat., Aug. 28, "Viva la Revolucion" is the battle cry when a fiery performance by Morricone-esque Latin American ensemble Llajtasuyo follows a screening of insurrectionary film The Fourth World War at Art Farm. On Mon., Aug. 30, "Man Vs. Machine" is the theme at the Earl when Droid Like Me and Destroy All Robots accompany sets from electro acts Mr. Mips and I Almost Saw God in the Metro.

"If you get the filmmakers and the musicians fighting together, we can make a change," explains Panter. "Atlanta has a lot of potential and some day instead of people thinking we're backwoods, Georgia people, we could be seen as a center of cultural vitality."

The Atlanta Underground Film Festival takes place Wed.-Tues., Aug. 25-31. $5 per screening, $30 seven-day pass. For a complete schedule of film and music performances, visit www.auff.org.