SARASOTA (WSNN) – Young filmmakers on the Suncoast are getting their chance to be in the spotlight at the Sarasota Film Festival’s educational night.
For some kids, this is their first time, on the red carpet. Students from elementary school all the way up to high school are showcasing their films on the big screen.
“Walking the red carpet, it’s a real honor, never got to do before,” Rowlett Academy 5th grader Benjamin Lewis said.
During its week of showcasing films, the Sarasota Film Festival reserved an educational evening for the kids, called ‘Hollywood Nights.’
“We rely on children to teach us new and different ways to make films, and they do it without fear, and without malice,” Sarasota Film Festival’s President & Chairman Mark Famigilo said.
It’s an opportunity meant to give the kids a glimpse into the film industry.
“It’s really a giant part of our mission to facilitate education screenings and to grow the young talent, especially here in the Sarasota area,” Sarasota Film Festival’s Managing Director Paul Ratner said.
It was a cool experience for many; many of the boys were wearing sunglasses on the red carpet.
“I get to show off to my friends,” a group of Rowlett 5th grade boys said. “People get to see how creative we are.”
Four films from the K-8 category were showcased Wednesday night at the CMX CinéBistro Siesta Key. The screening also include a special presentation of “The Growing Garden” TV pilot by Jerry Chambless and Nate Jacobs.
Lewis was a part of creating the film ‘Super Fork.’ It’s about a boy who sticks a fork in an outlet, gets super speed, defeats the antagonist, and saves the school.
“It was fun, challenging at points,” Lewis said. “You know, with supersede and what not, hard to create. But, it was really fun and very rewarding.”
As a teacher, Amy Imerman says it’s rewarding to see young pupils get an opportunity to shine.
“I love that the Sarasota Film Festival is something local that the students can be a part of and they can see their movies on the big screen,” Imerman said. “I just think it’s their night of glory. I just love to see it. It’s so memorable, they’re never going to forget this.”
This could be the start of transforming a young talent into a professional filmmaker.
“They really get to be encouraged in the filmmaking and a lot of them go onto college careers in film,” Ratner said.
From the wise words of a 5th grader:
“Movies are great,” Lewis said. “If you feel you have a talent for them, pursue your talent.”
Awards were given out to students with the best films. The festival continues to Friday with the big street party helping benefit the education department.
Throughout the week, the festival is showing a total of 150 films, online and 20 percent in theaters.