MUNCIE, Ind. – While the Hollywood award season may be coming to a close, here on campus, it's just getting started. The Frog Baby Film Festival is a celebration of Ball State Student Filmworks throughout the year.
“I think especially in the state of Indiana, student film isn't as focused on as it could be.” Luci Bluto, the President of Frog Baby Film Festival, said. “And Ball State's media department is a great breeding ground for student creativity and media production,” Bluto said.
For many students, this film festival is more than just showcasing the works of fellow Ball State students; it's about coming together and learning to appreciate others' works.
“My biggest dream is to support other student filmmakers. I have plenty of friends who want to pursue film, and the idea of being able to support them on their sets in their productions and having the knowledge and mindset for that type of thing is just a huge aspiration for me,” Bluto said.
Bluto prides herself on being heavily involved on campus, with organizations like Digital Corps, Radiance Cinema, and the Frog Baby Film Festival. Through these experiences, she can strengthen her talents as a media student at Ball State.
“I had the opportunity to work on a short film this semester for radiance, actually,” Bluto said, in reference to radiance cinema.
“And the story was just incredible. It was written by two close friends of mine, and they were pulling from their own personal experiences, and I just learned so much about myself, “ Bluto said.
Experiences like these highlight the collaborative space Ball State creates for its students to connect and bond over their shared love of media.
“As you see these groups or these people that are making films, it is not just one individual.” Bluto said, “While there might be one name listed as director, you're going to see these groups of people that have been working to create this incredible product, and that should encourage you to do the same.”
While many awards will be distributed Saturday evening, that is not the main point of the night.
“We're not looking for you to win an Oscar, we're not even looking for you to win a regional award of some sort, we're looking to recognize students that are going out there and trying to make something,” Bluto said.
Students and staff are welcome to join in on the celebration and attend the annual Frog Baby Film Festival on Saturday, April 4th, at 6 pm in Pruis Hall.
Contact Brianna Baariu with comments at brianna.baariu@bsu.edu
