Featured Photo by Jordan Reining

Story by Jordan Reining

Middle Tennessee State University’s Student Programming and Raider Entertainment hosted the 23rd annual student film festival from April 10 to April 11 in the Keathly University Center’s theater. 

Students submit films throughout the semester, and once approved by the festival committee, are added to the lineup. 

“Every year is a little bit different, because the manager gets to pick when it’s gonna be,” said Gracie Sizemore, this year’s and last’s festival organizer.

The film committee begins planning at the beginning of the semester, setting up the festival dates and deadlines for submissions. 

There were 28 films shown between the two days. Those in attendance were able to vote each night on their favorite film.  

Molly Boland, an MTSU alumna, directed “Backwater” with the Women in Film club. 

“I think it’s a great chance for everyone to showcase everything they’ve done throughout the year,” Boland said. 

She won Best Director at last year’s festival and now helps both Women in Film and the Film Guild in their endeavors. 

A reception will be held on Thursday, April 13th at 5 p.m. with an awards ceremony starting at 6 p.m.  

Nominees were announced after the screening on Tuesday in the following categories: Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Cinematography, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay, Best Picture, Best Score, Best Sound Design and Best Sound Mixing.

“Backwater” submitted by Women in Film president, Mak Johnson, had the highest number of nominations in nine of the ten categories. 

The crowd’s favorite film from the two nights will also be announced during the ceremony. 

To contact Lifestyles Editor Destiny Mizell, email [email protected]. For more news, visit www.mtsusidelines.com, or follow us on Facebook at MTSU Sidelines or on Twitter at @Sidelines_News.