The red carpet will be rolled out for the Encinitas Student Film Festival on May 15 at La Paloma Theater.
During the special event, fledgling filmmakers will get the chance to see their short films on the big screen, with an awards ceremony recognizing top films in various categories.
A winning film will be reviewed by Hollywood screenwriter and director Jordan Roberts, who will share his comments at the screening.
Another unique aspect of the festival is that students can take part in a filmmaking symposium from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 23 at the Encinitas Community Center. Roberts, known for his work on “March of the Penguins” and “Around the Bend,” will be among the A-List talent teaching students the art of filmmaking.
There will be workshops covering major filmmaking disciplines. In addition, veteran filmmakers will address the students, and they’ll shoot two scenes with drastically different moods.
“We see this as a way to encourage students’ creativity, empowering them,” said Francine Filsinger, producer of the Encinitas Student Film Festival. She noted about 100 students are expected at the symposium.
The free festival and symposium are open to grades 9-16 in accredited San Diego schools, as well as students in college and universities.
Registration for the symposium will be open until the day of the April 23 event, though earlier registration is encouraged. The deadline to enter films for the festival is May 2. and learn more at www.encinitasstudentfilmfestival.com.
The Encinitas Student Film Festival debuted in 2014, but didn’t take place last year due to a lack of funding. It resumed this year thanks to grant money coming through, according to Filsinger.
Filsinger, who is organizing the festival, said she was blown away by the caliber of student films in 2014.
