By Mitch Holt, Opinion Editor
Students who want to shoot a film can sign up for FilmFest in the Campus Center until noon Sept. 16, and those who sign up will not simply shoot a movie; they will be expected to attend workshops and tutorials prior their filming sessions to get ideas approved and learn how to participate in the event.
FilmFest, founded in the fall of 2004, brings students together in a creative film making competition, coming to a close with an awards ceremony where students can view all the films.
Doug Darby, executive director of FilmFest and creative director at the Adams Center for Teaching Excellence, said that upon completion of the workshop, the production phase will begin.
FilmFest participants must have ideas approved before they begin producing because it will ensure that all entries are eligible for the competition.
Sept. 19-23, the first week of FilmFest, will be designated for preproduction and shooting, and the editing lab will be available beginning Sept. 24.
“FilmFest is not just for JMC majors and movie buffs,” Darby said. “The intent of this event is to give everyone an opportunity to express their faith and insights in a new way.”
Darby also said through FilmFest, students will have a unique experience that encourages hands-on teamwork, technology and a chance to slide their ideas and imagination in front of alumni and industry professionals. This will provide participants access to feedback and networking to which they wouldn’t have had access before FilmFest began last year.
Assisting Darby as student co-chairs are Robyn King and Matt Maxwell and staff member Jonathan Johnson. Darby said that without these dedicated students, FilmFest wouldn’t happen.
“FilmFest is a melting pot of many diverse opinions, cultures and talents pertaining to film,” said Robyn King, co-chair and senior marketing and management major from Newark. “It’s a film exposition in which ACU students can present and market their talents in front of other students and faculty with similar interests.”
King said FilmFest is for anyone and everyone interested in film.
“FilmFest is the result of a lot of prayer and hard work,” Darby said. “Regardless of your discipline or professional goals, having an understanding for visual communication will enhance your ability to compete and excel in the world.”
