The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created in 2007 to bring people together through the art and science of film. Through this unique art, which has the power to touch our emotions and provoke thought like no other, we intend to promote the exchange of ideas, a greater cross-cultural awareness, and inspire others around the world.
CIFF accomplishes this with an international film and screenplay competition, dedicated to showcasing the art and talent of emerging filmmakers and writers from the U.S. and around the world, in an amazing city known for its deep-rooted American history.
Over the four day spring event which attracts visitors and aficionados from across the region and U.S., all genres of film including a wide range of subject matter are explored. The latest sneak previews and premieres of some of the best new features, documentaries, shorts and animations of local, national and international filmmakers are screened. After the shows, be our guest at the finest select venues around town for nightly after-parties and deal making opportunities. In addition to films and special events, insightful industry panels and educational workshops are offered. The festival closes on a high note at the formal Awards Gala, when the finest in filmmaking and writing displayed during the competition are recognized and honored for their outstanding efforts.
Who We Are
Summer Spooner – Co-Founder
Summer Spooner is experienced in producing and getting things done. She received her BA in Communications from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked on many films, commercials and music videos, as well as the Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, and MTV Awards. She was the Production Manager for the Beverly Hills Film Festival in 2003 and the Producer/Managing Director in 2006, 2007, and 2008. She has worked at Creative Artists Agency in the Motion Picture Talent Department, been involved with successful projects for Steele Films, Bulls Eye Entertainment, New Ground Productions, Heavy Dialogue Pictures, Think Tank Productions and American Film Institute, and is an active member of Women in Film. In addition to her responsibility to CIFF, Summer is a Producer for Apples and Oranges Productions, a bi-coastal production company with offices in Orange County, California and New York City.
Brian Peacher – Co-Founder
Brian Peacher was raised in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. He is a graduate of the College of Charleston with a BS of Economics, and avid traveler with over 10 years experience dealing in international business and relations. Brian contributed to the success of both the 2006 & 2007 Beverly Hills Film Festivals in California. He has always had a passion for art and creativity in all forms, but believes the art of film is one of the most unique and powerful mediums for touching the hearts and emotions of people. Brian is excited to help bring the projects of filmmakers from around the world to the city he holds close to his heart.
Tracy Roberts - Sponsorship Director
Tracy Roberts is originally from Wise, Virginia, and is proud to now call Charleston her home. After a rewarding career as a professional ballet dancer, she spent over ten years in the sales and marketing areas in the magazine and online publishing industry in New York City. She moved here in 2007 and is now combining her love of the arts with her extensive expertise in marketing and sponsorship development for the Film Festival. She is excited to work with companies who want to increase their visibility to the Film Festival audience, receive tangible benefits from being a sponsor, and further enhance the wonderful cultural arts climate that exists in Charleston.
Mark Gorman – Production Director
Mark Gorman has worked in the entertainment industry for nearly 20 years. He has held the title of actor, director, producer, writer and crew for film, stage and television. Mark holds a BFA in Acting from Radford University in Virginia. He also studied at the Eugene O'Neill Center in Waterford, Connecticut as well as at Trident Technical College in Charleston and Film Video Arts in New York. As an actor Mark starred in a number of films including "The Money Game" and many stage productions in New York. He has also worked with professional athletes across the country in performance-based life skills seminars. Behind the scenes, Mark looked through the eye piece for a number of films including the feature 'The Disillusionment of Mike and Eva" and has written and produced several short films.
Ron Krauskopf - Marketing Director
Originally from Winter Park, FL, Ron Krauskopf has been a Charleston resident since 2000. Ron’s true passion has always been the art of filmmaking, and he has pursued that passion in various ways throughout his life. Starting his adult life in the U.S. Navy, Ron graduated at the top of his class in photography school. For over four years, Ron traveled the world with a squadron, harnessing his opportunity to shoot aerial photography of unique military situations and being tapped as to document official ceremonies and events. Ron has a background in stage acting and theater production, and has performed in numerous plays in productions as far away as Diego Garcia. These experiences both behind and in front of the camera have deepened Ron's appreciation for film-making and all those who contribute to it, filling other's lives with their work. Ron graduated Cum Laude from the College of Charleston with a B.S. in Business Administration.
Community Outreach
The Charleston International Film Festival encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to participate, and works to partner and integrate community groups and educational institutions into aspects of the festival. We hope to provide a platform for other non-profits and organizations to further their mission through film and to promote a greater cultural understanding, philanthropy and volunteerism in the community.
