Cinematic Arts Students Premiere Original Works at Winter Film Festival

St. Margaret’s Winter Film Festival showcased 30 original short films written, directed, and edited by Middle and Upper School cinematic arts students during the fall semester. The festival was held in Hurlbut Theater with a full house celebrating student creativity and storytelling.

The program featured films spanning multiple genres, including comedy, drama, fantasy, and animation. Following the screenings, guests attended a reception and artist meet-and-greet in the Cloobeck Family Atrium, where audiences enjoyed gourmet popcorn and had the opportunity to engage directly with student filmmakers.

Through the filmmaking process, Middle and Upper School students explored personal and imaginative narratives while developing technical and collaborative skills. The students learned to operate professional film equipment and filmed on location including the St. Margaret’s campus, local beaches, and even Montana to capture winter scenes.

The Winter Film Festival highlighted the depth of student talent and the cinematic arts program’s emphasis on storytelling, craftsmanship, and creative expression. The cinematic arts students worked with extraordinary energy and creativity on the films showcased in the festival. 

“In a world of higher and higher academic expectations, cinematic arts offer a unique and powerful tool for students in creative problem solving, storytelling, diplomacy, and teamwork,” said Karen Bennett, film and media teacher. 

The skills developed in the cinematic arts program extend well beyond the classroom, preparing students for a wide range of future pursuits. Ms. Bennett added, “Our film students are better prepared for the social, academic, and creative challenges ahead because of this experience.”

Family and friends can watch the festival films and vote for the Audience Choice Award at the link below through Sunday, February 1 at 9 p.m. Audience Choice Award winners will be announced on Monday. The winning film’s director will receive a $25 gift card to the Metrolux Theater in San Clemente. For more information and to watch and vote through click here.