About Us

The Piney Woods Film Festival, held in Montgomery County, Texas, is a celebration of bold, independent cinema from around the world. Founded under Broadcasting Texas, a 501(c)(3), and rooted in Texas creativity, we proudly spotlight student and emerging filmmakers while providing a vibrant space where stories from every background take root, grow, inspire, and thrive. Through film, we connect global voices with local communities — nurturing the next generation of storytellers and honoring the power of cinematic expression for all.

Located on the western edge of the legendary Piney Woods, Montgomery County — home to vibrant communities such as The Woodlands, Conroe, Shenandoah, Willis, Spring, Tomball, Montgomery, and more — offers more than just scenic beauty. It’s a region deeply rooted in nature, creativity, and connection. The Piney Woods Film Festival celebrates this inspiring landscape, where towering loblollies and southern oaks provide the backdrop for stories that challenge, unite, and inspire. Hosted in Montgomery County, our festival is where Southern charm meets cinematic vision — right here in the heart of Texas’ forested soul.

The festival was founded by filmmakers and storytellers who grew up hiking, camping, and exploring these very woods — some even earning their Eagle Scout badges beneath the pine canopy. Today, their children carry on that tradition, making memories of their own in the same whispering forests. With 25 to over 50 years of experience in film, television, and production, our founders bring both seasoned industry knowledge and a heartfelt connection to the region. That deep-rooted passion for storytelling and place is what inspired the birth of this festival — a space where stories, like trees, are meant to grow strong and reach far.

Steve Berry

Public Relations / Marketing Director

Steve Berry is a community connector, film enthusiast, and proud Woodlands local who believes that great things happen when the right people—and ideas—come together. After moving to Texas 13 years ago, Steve didn’t just settle in…he plugged in. From serving on The Woodlands Chamber Board to three terms on The Woodlands Area Economic Development Council, to currently sitting on the Community Board for Memorial Hermann, he has become deeply rooted in the fabric of The Woodlands and greater Montgomery County.

Alongside his wife of 38 years, Lori, Steve has been an active supporter of local initiatives, sharing a passion for arts, culture, and building a vibrant, connected community. A proud member of George’s Coffee Club, he thrives on conversation, relationships, and the kind of idea-sharing that turns community moments into lasting impact. For Steve, the Piney Woods Film Festival represents something special—a chance to bring people together through storytelling, creativity, and a shared love of film.

A lifelong movie lover, Steve believes films are one of the most powerful ways we understand the world—offering a window into different cultures, perspectives, and possibilities. Whether he’s helping secure sponsorships, growing community involvement, or simply spreading the word, his role is all about connection.

In true Steve fashion, if there’s a conversation to be had, a partnership to be formed, or an idea to be sparked—you’ll likely find him right in the middle of it, helping turn it into something meaningful (and hopefully a little fun along the way).

Because in Steve’s world, everything starts with a conversation—and the best stories begin when people come together.

Brad Parler

Director of Judging

Brad Parler is a media producer and art director with more than 25 years of experience in broadcasting, visual storytelling, and brand development. He has led creative direction for companies and community organizations, building teams and producing content that supports growth and connection. Brad focuses on helping people share their message through clear communication and strong visual identity. He now serves as Director of Judging for the film festival, bringing a producer’s eye, attention to detail, and deep respect for the work of filmmakers.

Justin Woods

Director / Founder

With over two decades of experience in video production, I began my career in 1999 as a cameraman, capturing powerful stories through the lens. My early work included filming Shattered Lives programs, which ignited my passion for storytelling with purpose. I served as Producer, Director, and Editor for Shattered Lives of Montgomery County and Tomball from 2000–2021, helping raise awareness about impaired and distracted driving for over two decades.

During this time, I also worked extensively behind the scenes in theatre and technology. From 1999–2010, I held simultaneous roles with the historic Crighton Theatre, Lone Star College Theatre, and the Lone Star College IT Department, contributing to live productions and technical operations for over a decade.

My career also took me into the oil and gas industry, operating on a drilling rig and in the war room, where I oversaw operations across rigs throughout the continental U.S. In parallel, I served as Community Manager for InnoGames, a leading online gaming and development platform, where I managed all U.S. user-level operations, player engagement, and community relations for a span of four years.

Since 2016, I have been the Video Production and Broadcast Manager at Woodlands Online, leading the production of live high school sports broadcasts—including football, volleyball, basketball, and baseball—and original TV shows such as Nerd News Now, Between the Trees: Business Talk, Woodlands House & Home, The Best You, Taste Buds, Purple Politics, For Reels, Woodlands On-Air, Talking Gearheads, and many more. My experience also includes producing commercials, infomercials, and event coverage throughout The Woodlands, such as the Fourth of July Parade and fireworks.

In the film world, I’ve contributed to multiple feature films, including The Bracelet of Bordeaux, Dark Gift, BorderCross, and most recently, Reunion. My documentary work includes directing and producing Shattered in Real Life, a deep dive into the consequences of distracted and impaired driving.

For the past three years, I’ve served as Lead Video Director for Comicpalooza in Houston, overseeing high-profile panels, live productions, and media content.

Outside of work, I’m an Eagle Scout, having grown up in the Boy Scouts of America—an experience that instilled leadership, service, and a strong work ethic that continues to guide my career.

I’ve been married since 2007 to an amazing woman—an entrepreneur, partner, and best friend—and together we’re raising five incredible children. They are my greatest joy and daily inspiration.

With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for visual composition, I continue to push creative boundaries in filmmaking, live broadcasting, and multimedia production.

Scott Faulk

Student Liason

Scott Faulk is a seasoned video producer and educator with over 25 years of experience shaping the future of visual storytelling. Based in Conroe, Texas, Scott has seamlessly blended creative production with impactful instruction, becoming a respected figure in both the media industry and educational circles.

After earning his Bachelor of Arts in Radio/Television/Film from Sam Houston State University—where he was a President’s Scholarship recipient and Honors Program member—Scott launched his career in the early 2000s with production companies like Hunter Video Productions and Matrix Video Productions. He honed his skills producing promotional, training, and commercial content while managing studio and remote shoots.

His passion for education began in 2003 at A&M Consolidated High School, where he spent 12 years developing award-winning audio video production programs and building a full-service production studio. His efforts extended to higher education, teaching video production at Blinn College, and later continuing his legacy at The Woodlands High School, where he has led the AV department since 2019. Known for fostering real-world learning experiences, Scott has guided students to numerous state and national championships through SkillsUSA, mentoring them in narrative film, commercial work, and broadcast news.

Parallel to his teaching career, Scott has remained active in professional production. As Director of Media Production for Go Local Advertising and current producer for SAF Productions and The Mended Collective, he has managed hundreds of client projects, led editorial teams, and overseen training in cinematography, audio, and lighting. Most recently, he served as an Editor and Consultant for social media content for successful musical artist Jonathan Michael Fleming.

Scott’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. He has served as President of AVACA (Audio Video Production Teachers Association of Texas) and has been a longstanding SkillsUSA Technical Chairman, overseeing regional and state video competitions and mentoring educators across Texas. As a curriculum writer for Conroe ISD, he has helped align AV programs with industry standards and certifications.

A three-time national SkillsUSA Champion Advisor, Adobe Premiere Certified Professional, and frequent guest lecturer at institutions like Rice University and Texas A&M, Scott Faulk continues to push the boundaries of educational media. Through innovation, mentorship, and professional excellence, he is shaping the next generation of storytellers and creators.

Gary Parker

Inspitration / Founder

Gary Parker, With over 50 years of experience in film and video production, Gary Parker is a seasoned professional whose career spans directing, producing, cinematography, and screenwriting. A fixture in the Conroe, Texas, creative community for 29 years, Gary leads Quanah Studios and Quanah Productions, Inc., a full-service production company focused on crafting positive, message-driven motion pictures and documentaries.
Professional Experience

Quanah Productions, Inc.
President and Owner (1989–Present)
Dedicated to producing impactful films and documentaries, Quanah Productions has become a trusted name in positive message-driven storytelling.

Indie Films Studios Film School (IFF)
Co-Founder (2020–Present)
IFF provides real-world, hands-on training in film and television, furthering Gary’s mission to inspire and mentor the next generation of filmmakers.

Dynamic Global Media LLC
President (2016–Present)
A leader in video streaming solutions, delivering innovative content distribution to global audiences.

KVQT Channel 21
Programming Manager (2018–Present)
Overseeing content for an antenna-based TV station broadcasting to over two million people in the Greater Houston area.

Shattered Lives of Montgomery County
Producer/Director/Editor (2000–2021)
Gary contributed two decades of work to this impactful project, raising awareness about distracted and impaired driving.

Other notable roles include leadership positions with Metropolis Media, MyMtvNetwork.com, and Washington Independent News, as well as experience with KTRK-TV, where he managed edited news content.
Education and Training

University of Houston: Communications (1973–1977)
Rice University: Screenwriting (1980–1981)
Los Angeles Valley College: Film School Cinematography (1990)

Feature Films and Documentaries

Gary’s feature film credits include Cindy’s Silence, Reunion: A Shattered Lives Story, and Dead End Diner, among others. His documentary work includes Montgomery County Shattered Lives, In Between Dances, and Conroe, Texas: The First 100 Years. His dedication to impactful storytelling is evident in every project.
Awards and Recognition

Gary’s work has garnered numerous awards, including:

Telly Awards for When Seconds Count and Spirit of 66.
WorldFest Awards for Backstabber and Carousels.
Vision Awards for Shattered Lives and Dead End Diner.
Communicator Awards and Videographer Awards for In Between Dances.

Community Involvement and Memberships

Gary actively contributes to his community, serving on the boards of the Greater Conroe Arts Alliance and The Rotary Club of Lake Conroe. He is also a member of the American Film Institute, American Society of Cinematographers, and the Independent Film & Television Alliance.