Student Film Makers Walk the Red Carpet

It comes as no surprise that a group of River Dell High School seniors received the royal red carpet treatment recently at the 11^th annual Henrick Hudson Film Festival in Montrose, New York. That’s because they were honored at this prestigious event, which showcases the film making talents of high school students in the Tri-State area.     

RDHS Seniors Greg Stengel and David Kleinberg claimed one of the festival’s “Inspiration Awards” for their three minute video. The short documentary was one of more than 100 student submissions from 20+ schools in the following categories:  music, video, animation, documentary, drama, PSA (public service announcement) and comedy.  

The seniors’ video project features last season’s winning streak of the River Dell Hawk’s wrestling team. It also tells the story of its biggest fan, RDHS senior Alex Turchi.    

“We knew we wanted to produce something about sports, and when our wrestling team was doing so well, it was a perfect fit,” explains Stengel. “When we noticed Alex cheering at every game, we wanted people to know more about him and what he has done for the team.”  

“Alex has faced a lot of obstacles in his life but has always had a positive and winning attitude,” adds Kleinberg. “Producing this video helped show how Alex inspired the other guys as the unofficial team mascot, teammate and friend.“ 

Through interviews with the team coach and varsity wrestlers, viewers get to hear how Turchi -- who has Down Syndrome -- has grown physically and socially during the last four years as an influential member of the team. Even more impressive, the production emphasizes how much the team has learned from Turchi.   

The video captured the spirit of the River Dell Wrestling team and the hearts of the judges. To view it, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vzIjG4qh_g 

Another media team –Fluffy Film Productions – claimed an honorable mention in the festival's “Drama” category with their video called “System.” Produced, directed and acted by Eric Fakarzadeh, Dominic Dixon and Monique Mullen, the four minute drama is about two students who are accused of hacking into the school’s SAT system. To view their video, go to  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QZwRQYbNJY 

In Academy Award style, the five students were treated to a limo ride around the Westchester school and were then dropped off to walk the red carpet as bystanders cheered them on. The group was then interviewed by Henrick Hudson High School TV reporters before heading indoors to attend the evening’s screenings.     

Some may think these students have had their “five minutes of fame” by attending this event. But after watching both videos it is clear that they are just beginning their journeys. Most of them will continue to focus on media studies at various colleges.

That said, you may want to remember these names. Who knows, someday you may even see at least one of them holding up the Oscar and thanking River Dell High School for giving them their start.