2nd Place :: Division A

Acceptance

Metea Valley

Dramatic Narrative

Entry Description

A short film exploring the idea of being average, we follow Sean Campbell, a highschool senior who is nearing his last day of highschool with nothing to show for it. The realization that in societies eyes he is the textbook definition of mediocrity begins to set in, and we see the toll it takes on the psyche.

Judge 1

Positives: interesting premise. some good shots, especially the fast forwards. interesting narrative. good music.

Improvements: lighting. some stilted dialogue in voiceover

Judge 2

Positives: Effect used in walking through the hall sequence was very well done. Captures adolescent angst and ennui well.

Improvements: Uneven quality of lighting in some sequences. Introspective piece admittedly, so the isolation of protaganist in all settings (home, school, work) may be understandable but left wondering if he had any actual interactions with other humans.

Judge 3

Positives: Excellent topic, a film that should have exposure to many teens who feel that "average" is a problem instead of being an "OK" state. Typical of many teens who don't know what they want to do when they graduate from high school. Choice of visuals was excellent to show all aspects of the characters' life...work, home....neighborhood...

Improvements: Hard to find ways to improve this piece. The story might have been enhanced by showing parents and giving the subject's "take" on how they they look at him.