GCU Digital Film Student Highlights
Storytelling lies at the heart of the Digital Film department at Grand Canyon University. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves and look at the world through a myriad of lenses. Additionally, the department seeks to instill in its students the importance of ethical filmmaking and proper technique (both in front and behind the camera).
For these reasons, Grand Canyon University’s Digital Film program is dedicated to assisting student projects by providing access to a variety of equipment, locations and facilities.
The five films showcased on this student works page illustrate the diversity of ideas and projects created by Digital Film production students.
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“Allen," co-directed by Caleb Davidson and Ethan Collins, takes a comedic look at how a break-up can negatively impact everyone involved, including the goldfish. The film was completed during one of GCU’s biannual 48 Hour Film Festivals and later was included in the Arizona College Film Showcase.
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“Begin," directed by Nikki Shadden, looks at the hopes, fears and dreams of young creatives, interviewing a filmmaker, musician, artist and photographer. This film won Best Documentary at the 2018 GCU Film Festival and then was included in the first Arizona College Film Showcase (2018). Shadden continues to help young creatives at GCU by participating in panels and speaking with current students.
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“The Composer," directed by Andrew Peterson, uses visual storytelling to show how although our plans may not work out as we had hoped, they work out as they should. Moving the viewer through the difficulties of love while set to an original score, the film calls to mind the classics of silent cinema. “The Composer” won Best of Festival in the 2016 GCU Film Festival.
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The short but effective “The Woods," directed by Isaac O’Farrell, is a thriller set in a camping tent. Proving that what we cannot see is scarier than what we can, O’Farrell showcases a smart selection of shots and sound design. This film was included in the 2020 Arizona College Film Showcase.
These films are the cumulation of many hours of writing, planning, filming and editing (in the case of “Allen,” 48 consecutive hours). Working alongside classmates and friends, these five directors used the techniques taught in the Digital Film production courses and brought their concepts to life through the use of Grand Canyon University’s facilities and equipment.
Grand Canyon University and the Digital Film department are excited to see what you will create. Request information to find out how you can pursue a degree and gain filmmaking experience.