WHEELING, W. Va. – Jared Thompson, an associate professor of Digital Media Design, has organized the 48-hour film fest for students since 2015. The event showcases the unique talents of participants through film genres, dialogue, character profiles, and props. Over the years, the event has gained popularity throughout the Ohio Valley. Students have improved their filmmaking skills in every aspect and Thompson aims to increase the event’s popularity to help students gain recognition for their work and create job opportunities. 

The event has shown promise for continued success, with support from partners such as Wheeling Heritage, Peet Holloway, and John Bonassi, who are part of the West Liberty Foundation, provided for the event. The 9th annual 48-hour film festival started on September 13th, 2024. Students randomly selected elements and created short films around what they got. The top two films were “Stay Dead” by Christopher Figaretti, with impressive shots, lighting, and editing, and “The Unknown” by Ella Smith, which created a horrifying atmosphere with its lighting and sound effects.

The films were recognized for their unique elements, and the individuals behind them were honored for their execution of those elements. Smith received the best use of genre award. Her skillful use of lighting and shot composition increased the film’s intensity. Figaretti was awarded for his best use of props. His unique shot placement and movement brought the doll to life, while the doll’s voiceover significantly contributed to the story. Olivia Bernola’s film “Tag. You’re It” was awarded for best use of dialogue, as it helped transition the scene from a calm, ordinary day to a suspenseful thriller. Nokk Ripley’s “Honeybee” was recognized for the best use of character. The character and costume design were perfectly eerie and added with effective lighting.

It was also great to see the high schoolers participate in this opportunity for the Ohio Valley Community to use their techniques to tell a short story. The first-place film was from River High School student Grant Smith and his short film “Silence Of The Forest” Their shot composition went well with the story and was awarded best for the use of props as well for how it was implemented. The second-place winner was “Love Inherited” by Emma Underwood with their comedic and romantic storyline with the best use of character.

The event drew a large and diverse crowd. Attendees included students from both college and high school, as well as local community members. Thompson was particularly moved by the strong support and recognition shown for the student’s creative work, which made the event a truly memorable and heartwarming experience. Thompson anticipated that the students would face numerous challenges during the contest but was amazed by what they had accomplished. The 48-hour film fest allows students to unleash their creativity and produce compelling short films in a tight timeframe. The event’s professional structure creates a learning experience making it an exhilarating and powerful experience for all involved.