More than a dozen student-made films, ranging from serious documentaries to lighter, comedic tales, will take to the big screen Thursday evening at the Princeton Public Library’s Student Film & Video Festival.
The films, which will be screened at 7 p.m. in the library’s Community Room, represent the work of high school students both in New Jersey and across the nation.
"It’s their creative work," Teen Librarian and event organizer Susan Conlon said. "We’re just lucky we have the facility here."
According to Ms. Conlon, the festival, which is now in its second year, acts as an appropriate forum for both well-seasoned filmmakers and amateurs.
"It gives kids already doing this an avenue to get their work shown, to get some feedback on it," Ms. Conlon said.
"We’re not looking for perfection here," she added. "These films we’re watching are really works in progress."
This year’s 15 films, which range from just under one minute to 20 minutes in length, were chosen by members of the Princeton Teen Film Committee. In addition to library staff, this committee includes local high school students, a film historian and members of The Arts Council of Princeton.
Ms. Conlon said the committee’s selections range from a serious documentary on censorship to a 2½-minute short on a character’s quest for a glass of milk.
"Some of the films are more animated, experimental," she said. "Others are comedies."
According to Ms. Conlon, the films were made either by the students themselves or with the help of a school film teacher.
"Kids are well versed in the visual, graphic medium," Ms. Conlon said. "It’s much more affordable than it once was."
Ms. Conlon noted that the festival has seen considerable growth since last year.
"We got twice as many submissions this year," Ms. Conlon said. "We’ve definitely seen a wider range this year in style."
And although Ms. Conlon described the films as pure entertainment, she framed the event as more than just a screening opportunity.
"It’s not just like the finished product," Ms. Conlon said. "It’s a fun way to spend time with each other."
