And the award goes to . . .

Last weekend, Principia College hosted its 6th annual student film festival. Students gathered outside on the Chapel Green on a balmy Friday night to watch a series of student-made short films.

There were 11 entries with subject matter ranging from profiles of current students to a fake documentary on present-day Cro-Magnon men. The winning film, produced by junior Jamie Eichar and freshman Philip Riley, was full of whimsical charm. It depicted Riley rescuing a fellow College student from a kidnapper. The film featured no speaking, only overblown expressions reminiscent of 1920s silent films and a song composed by Riley. Minor effects were employed such as stop animation and film played backwards.

Film Club co-president Cory McElrea was pleased with this year’s event, and he’s already looking for ways to improve future festivals. “Awarding cash prizes raised the level of competition,” says McElrea. The winning films were selected based on audience vote, and first through third place prize-winners received $250, $100, and $50, respectively. McElrea is considering alternate options for selecting next year’s winners, such as critics brought in from Saint Louis or an official judging panel.

In an effort to improve the quality of filmmaking equipment available to contestants, the Film Club is allocating funds for a new Canon camera and a shoulder rig. “My focus has been on trying to provide the community with ways to share a love of film,” McElrea explains. “To do that, you have to improve the quality of the work being shared.”

(Photo courtesy of Danilo Prates)