S.C. filmmakers bring faith, suspense and regional talent to the screen
‘Choices’ debuts Saturday, Oct. 17
South Carolina filmmakers, actors, musicians and emerging creative voices are coming together for Choices, an independently produced Christian suspense drama from Jeff Akers Films Network that will make its official theatrical premiere Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, in Columbia.
Filmed in South Carolina, Choices explores faith, relationships, discernment, temptation, redemption and the consequences of everyday decisions through a suspense-driven narrative designed to entertain audiences while inviting deeper reflection.
The feature is written, produced and co-directed by award-winning filmmaker Jeff Akers, founder of Jeff Akers Films Network, and directed by award-winning filmmaker and educator Dr. Brandon M. Glover, whose previous work includes the award-winning feature Son-of-a Preacher Man. Together, Akers and Glover bring experience spanning independent film, television, documentary, media production, education, ministry and faith-centered storytelling to Choices. Akers’ career includes work as a writer, producer and director across film, documentary, television, broadcast and music-video production, while Glover brings an established body of directing and production work within South Carolina’s independent film community.
The production brings together established regional professionals and developing artists across acting, cinematography, music, production, design and post-production. Alexander Hernandez, professionally known as LexxDirector, serves as director of photography, while Petrina Williams serves as production manager alongside a broad team of filmmakers and creative collaborators.
The ensemble includes Marquise LaShawn as Terrance, Jermaine Jackson as Calvin, Ulyssia Pleiss as Samantha, Desiree Artemus as Shandra, Rebecca Pearl as Reena, Nelson Tyshan Jones as Pastor Thomas, Ashley McHam as Detective Lewis, Merritt Vann as Detective Boyd, Brittany Starks (B.Me) as Kimberly, Brittney A. Brackett as Cierra, Charles “Rafe” Hardin as Mr. Madison, and additional South Carolina and regional performers.
The film also features an original musical component developed by members of the production’s creative team. Jeff Akers, Sr. serves as music director, with music compositions from Akers, Arlington Scott Akers, Adam Walker and Gavin Moore. Film score composers include Don Altamirano, also known as Caesar, and Jeff Akers Sr., with musicians Timothy McGuire, Jr. and Gavin Moore contributing to the production. Recording artist and cast member Rebecca Pearl’s song “Able” is also featured in the film courtesy of A Legacy Records.
The project reflects a growing network of independent film talent in South Carolina, connecting filmmakers, actors, musicians, educators, ministry leaders and other arts professionals whose work reaches across Columbia, Greenville and communities throughout the state. Several members of the Choices team have previously collaborated through South Carolina film and creative projects, giving the production a foundation of existing professional relationships while also creating opportunities for emerging talent.
That combination of established and developing artists is central to the larger story behind Choices. The film brings together creatives whose backgrounds extend beyond a single discipline—among them filmmakers, recording artists, educators, actors, producers, collegiate leaders, media professionals and stage performers—demonstrating the breadth of creative talent currently working within South Carolina.
Beyond the premiere itself, Choices represents an investment in South Carolina-made storytelling and the creative community behind it. Through the project, Jeff Akers Films Network seeks to spotlight the filmmakers, performers, musicians and production professionals working within the state while encouraging continued collaboration between established professionals and emerging creative voices.
At its heart, Choices asks audiences to consider how decisions—whether seemingly small or life-changing—can shape relationships, character and ultimately the direction of a life. Through suspense, drama and faith-centered storytelling, the film invites viewers not simply to observe the decisions of its characters, but to consider the choices they make in their own lives.
More information about Choices , the official trailer and premiere information can be found at ChoicesTheMovies.com.
The official Choices premiere will take place at Spotlight Cinemas Capital 8 (201 Columbia Mall Blvd., Suite 211, Columbia) on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The Red Carpet Experience begins at 5 p.m., followed by the welcome and premiere program at 6 p.m. and the theatrical presentation at approximately 6:15 p.m.