Film Studies students showcased their creativity and filmmaking skills through their final projects this semester as part of the South by Southwestmo Film Festival, under the instruction of Mr. Notaro.
For their final assessment, students worked individually or in groups to create a 1–5 minute short film. Projects could be based on an original concept or a recreation of a film studied during the semester. Students were challenged to apply everything they learned in class, including directing techniques, scriptwriting, cinematography, performance, and overall storytelling.
All but one group chose to produce entirely original films, and the results were impressive. The creativity, collaboration, and growth demonstrated throughout the projects exceeded expectations. Both Mr. Notaro and the teachers who volunteered as judges were blown away by the quality, effort, and thoughtful execution of the films.
The Palme d’Notaro for Best Film was awarded to Samantha Parzych, Kayla Sciorilli, and Juliana Acee for their film “Near & Far.”
The runner-up award went to Abby Brewer and Arabella Sawanec for their film “Helpless.”
