News Summary
A new independent film, ‘Not So Bright,’ is set to start production in Augusta’s Central Savannah River Area. Created by local cousins Dylan and Willis Fincher, this dark comedy features original storytelling centered on two brothers who stumble upon a bag of drugs. With production led by local filmmaker Choice Skinner, the project aims to showcase the unique resources and talents of the CSRA. Scheduled for release in 2026, this film highlights the growing independent cinema scene in the region.
Augusta, GA – A new independent film titled Not So Bright is set to begin production in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). This dark comedy is the brainchild of cousins Dylan and Willis Fincher, who hail from Augusta and Aiken. Both have taken on multiple roles as the film’s writers, producers, and starring actors, showcasing local talent in a unique cinematic project.
The screenplay for Not So Bright was crafted in an impressive timeframe of just 17 days, which involved numerous long nights dedicated to writing. The narrative centers around two brothers who are struggling to make ends meet and find themselves embroiled in trouble after discovering a bag of drugs. The story draws inspiration from early 2000s comedies, particularly Pineapple Express, offering a modern twist on the genre.
Willis Fincher, who plays one of the lead roles, has shared insights about the challenges of building this project. However, the overall sentiments are optimistic, highlighting the value of support from a dedicated team. The film’s direction comes from Choice Skinner, an Augusta native, who returned from Los Angeles to care for his family and to pursue his filmmaking aspirations locally. Skinner believes that the project has the potential to become a classic, reflecting his confidence in the film’s artistic and narrative strength.
According to Skinner, producing a film of this scale would not have been feasible in California, which emphasizes the unique advantages Augusta offers to filmmakers. The city’s diverse landscapes are seen as an asset, which both Dylan and Skinner noted during discussions about the production. These localized features provide a compelling canvas for storytelling and have captured the interest of the filmmakers in this project.
Not So Bright is not merely a family endeavor; it also aims to shine a light on the collective talent and enthusiasm that local filmmakers and actors bring to the industry. This initiative is a testament to the growing creative community in the CSRA and the potential for future projects in the region.
The film is scheduled for release in 2026, allowing ample time for production and post-production processes. As the team prepares to embark on this cinematic journey, anticipation is building not only within the local community but also among film enthusiasts who appreciate independent cinema.
In summary, Not So Bright is a promising new independent film originating in Augusta, GA, built on the aspirations and hard work of local filmmakers. With production beginning shortly, the project stands to highlight the unique resources and talents available within the CSRA, as it aims for a release that could resonate with audiences in 2026.
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Additional Resources
- WFXG: Independent Dark Comedy Not So Bright Filming in the CSRA
- Augusta Chronicle: Augusta Area Actors Technicians Wanted for TV Pilot
- Post and Courier: Horror Film Mister Sleep Augusta Premiere
- Wikipedia: Independent Film
- Google Search: Film Festivals

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