Lexington's premiere independent film festival Twelve Lions roars back onto screens this Friday, Sept. 25 through Sunday, Sept. 27. All screenings and workshops are free.

The Kentucky Theatre will show more than 50 films selected from the 200+ submitted movies — representing 11 countries — in blocks throughout the day during this fourth year's run.

The coordinator of the all-volunteer-run festival Bria Granville says the festival adds needed opportunities for the region's growing film community. Recently, Kentucky Film Office director Meg Fister — who will be at a networking session this weekend — said she wants Kentucky to be seen as the "king of the indie," the place to produce a $5 to $30 million movie.

"The festival gives people a place to meet and hone their skills," Granville says. "It gives everyone a chance to watch indie films that they wouldn't be able to see otherwise."

Fun fact: The festival's name comes from the 12 lions to be found in its 100-year-old Beaux Arts-style lobby.

What should you see?

Let us shine the spotlight on some star programming each day. Registration is recommended for all these events, which take place at the Kentucky Theatre unless otherwise noted.

Friday, Sept. 25

John Herndon: Dying for a Living | 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Farish Theater, Lexington Public Library | The filmmaker and stunt performer dishes on his craft.
"Harlan County, USA" | 7 p.m. | A 50th anniversary screening of the legendary documentary will be followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Barbara Kopple.
"Silver Screen Striptease" | 10 p.m. | Love & Devotion burlesque performs a cinema-themed cabaret.

Saturday, Sept. 26

"So You Want to Make a Movie" panel | 11 a.m. | Industry pros on the good, bad, and ugly of filmmaking.
"Other Houses" | 12:45 p.m. | A feature starring local poet and publisher Katerina Stoykova as an immigrant choosing whether to stay in the US or go back to Bulgaria.
"Landlord" | 4:53 p.m. | A clever twist on vampire mythology by a Louisville filmmaker.
"Ruby in Paradise" | 7 p.m. | Kentucky Theatre | A special screening of the award-winning 1993 film starring Ashley Judd will be followed by a conversation with director Victor Nunez.

Sunday, Sept. 27

"Coffee, Donuts, & Networking (oh my!)" | 10 a.m. | A chance to meet other attendees, filmmakers, and Meg Fister, director of the Kentucky Film Office.
"On Directing Actors, with Victor Nunez" Q&A | 12:30 p.m. | Kentucky Theatre

Award winners in various categories will be named and shown again throughout Sunday afternoon.