Film Production Students of the UPR appear as finalists in an important festival

The short film “What day is it today?” carried out by students of the course COMA 4342 - Film Production II of the Faculty of Communication and Information, in the midst of the pandemic, has been selected as a finalist in the International Academic Film Festival (FACIUNI).

The piece, which will represent Puerto Rico, will be available at the festival page for the public to vote until February 18.

The short was written and directed by student Lizannette Velasco de Jesús. The production team is completed by students Ricardo A. Santana as producer, Angélica T. Maysonet as director of photography, Luis de Jesús Hernández as sound, and Bryan Torres as assistant director.

“The enthusiasm, dedication and creativity of the students is demonstrated in projects like ‘What day is it today?’ The short film was made at a very difficult time of the coronavirus pandemic. COVID-19 in which we had to offer practically all classes remotely. The recognition that FACIUNI gives when choosing the short -among the two finalists from Puerto Rico this year- is a well-deserved achievement. I hope you can see and enjoy it,” said Carlos García Arce, professor of the course taught at the Río Piedras Campus of the University of Puerto Rico (RRP-UPR).

The participating students also showed their enthusiasm. Velasco de Jesús, scriptwriter and director of the piece, expressed that her experience was surprising “in the best possible way.”

“Despite the pandemic and all the complicating factors, the sense of commitment and communication to make the short fit our group from the start. I am extremely grateful. In short, creating and seeing this story grow has been an exciting experience and I hope it will be repeated.” he added.

For his part, Torres stated that he feels very satisfied. “I am proud to have collaborated with a group of talented young people, with the same mission of wanting to create stories that make us feel identified. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my high school and professional career.”

The team’s photographer, Angélica Maysonet, also shared her feelings by stating that “working on this short film was quite a challenge, but one of those that bring out the best in one. In the midst of the pandemic we managed to turn an idea into reality. Seeing our imagination embodied in front of us was a great pleasure. In addition, being part of a team in which each one fulfills their part with passion, dedication and dedication, allowed us to see this as much more than just a job. More than a result of everyone’s work and talent, it was an experience that allowed us to learn, fraternize and create”.

FACIUNI Scholarships

The International University Film Academic Festival (FACIUNI) supports the next generation of filmmakers, with education and opportunities. Is for this that I know invites to participate in the editions of the FACIUNI Becas contest, where the winner will obtain a summer course at one of the most prestigious universities in the United States: the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts.