Huntington Filmmakers Vie in Locust Valley Festival

Huntington High School filmmakers recently vied in the 20th annual Locust Valley Film Festival. The Blue Devils have participated in the event for many years.

Filmmakers from across Long Island created projects in the animation, comedy, commercial, drama, horror, music video, documentary, public service announcement and trailer categories. The works were judged by industry professionals.

“We had four Huntington films selected for the final screening,” said art teacher Heather Swan, who leads Huntington’s film program.

The films included “Polaroid” by Hennie England, Hannah Boyle, James Hartough and Amyah Escalona in the commercial category; “Vida Coco” by Marcus Argaman and Jude Creegan in the commercial category; “I’m Sorry” by Charlie Stanforth in the drama category and “The Rock Whisperer” by Owen Stevens in the comedy category.

Students from nine high schools submitted 75 separate films covering nine categories for consideration.

Capturing second place for cinematography and first place in the drama category was Charlie Danforth’s film, “I’m Sorry.”

Garnering third place in the commercial category was “Polaroid,” by filmmakers Hennie England, Hannah Boyle, James Hartough and Amyah Escalona.

“I’m so proud of our group,” Ms. England said. “It’s such a great opportunity to be able to see all of the films in the festival. It was really inspiring and I can’t wait to make more films for next year.”

“I was so excited for this experience,” Ms. Boyle said. “It was so inspiring to watch all the films and I’m so proud of our group for our award!”

“I was so surprised when they called us up,” Mr. Hartough said. “I’m so proud of my group and I hope we get another chance to participate in this event again.”

“I was very nervous because I didn’t know if we would win,” Amyah Escalona exclaimed. “The first thing that surprised me was that our video was in the film festival, I was also surprised we got third place. I was very happy for my group and friends that also won. This is my first year and I’m proud of my class for the work they put into and effort.”