A celebration of student creativity and talent that gives students a chance to win prizes and have their voices heard in their community.
“Beyond the Peaks” Film festival is a community-based showcase of art made by young filmmakers in the Adirondacks. The festival was created by AdkAction in partnership with Tupper Lake Central School District. The Inaugural Festival took place on May 10, 2019 at The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, NY. Film submissions were accpeted from 50 students representing 7 school districts in the greater Adirondack area.
This event is free and open to the public. Filmmaking is an important artistic discipline that is underrepresented in rural America. We want to create and expand opportunities for young people in the Adirondacks interested in filmmaking or “digital storytelling.” It’s all about giving area youth a platform for creative expression and an opportunity to have their voices heard.
A crowd favorite, “Mountain is Mountain” created by Kristina Khudiakova from Newcomb High School took home the Made in the Adirondacks category. The classic skier vs. snowboarder feud had a surprise ending and superb production quality.
The Open category invited longer films, up to 15 minutes. The winning film was, “The Visitor” created by: Kanatires Barreiro, Autumn Benedict, Sohrenhes George, and Ienonkwahawis from Salmon River High School. The film told the story of how the creator brought the gift of plant medicines to the Bear Clan people.
“You’re a Wizard Harry” by Carley LaRose from Newcomb High School won the Comedy category and featured impressive special effects.
“Lockdown” by Hallie Hurwitz, Elizabeth Hynes, Alibra Rodriguez, Ireland Sample, and Bryn Walsh from Beekmantown High School won the Audience Choice Award for their emotional portrayal of the emotional tole taken by school shootings.
“Don’t be Stupid” created by Lawrence Lobdel from Westport High School won the Public Service Announcement category.
“Back in Time” by Kristina Khudiakova from Newcomb High School took top honors in the Horror/Sci-fi/Fantasy category. A psychological thriller that reminded the audience to pay attention to the people around, even if they aren’t the star of the show.
“50 Years Cemented in Time, The Kathleen Bigrow Story” by Kasandra Sipler from Tupper Lake High School won the Documentary category. The film showcased a local photographer who captured the spirit of the Adirondacks with her prolific portfolio of daily life.
“True Colors,” created by Mackenzie Burnett and William Strack from Tupper Lake High School won the Animation category. The film tackled tough topics like self-acceptance, being different, and letting your authentic self shine.
A famous NYC actor, Sean Weil, best known for his roles in Jessica Jones, Boardwalk Empire, and Law & Order, announced the winner of the Drama category. “Sature,” created by Timofey Valov from Newcomb High School won with a deeply moving film that tacked the difficult topic of suicide. Viewer discretion is advised.
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Help us create and expand opportunities for young people in the Adirondacks interested in filmmaking or “digital storytelling.”
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