Hampton City Schools students shine at Virginia Film Festival

Hampton City Schools students are stepping into the spotlight with original short films they wrote, acted in, and produced alongside Hollywood professionals Trent Garrett and Jacob Young. Through the Next Generation Storytellers Hollywood to Hampton initiative, students collaborated with the seasoned actors and producers to bring their creative visions to life—from concept to camera.

Their finished films will be showcased at the Virginia Film Festival, where these emerging filmmakers will have the opportunity to mingle with industry professionals, participate in a special Q&A session, and share their filmmaking journeys with a wider audience.

This exciting experience not only celebrates student creativity and storytelling but also highlights the growing partnership between Hollywood and Hampton in inspiring the next generation of filmmakers. 

The films that will be showcased are below. Come join in on the fun and support our HCS students at the Virginia Film Festival on October 25 at 10:30 a.m. in Charlottesville, VA.

Connecting Calls

A single call can change everything—but for four teenagers grappling with regret, reconciliation may be the hardest connection to make. Written and directed by Madison Newton.

Fading Away

As grief pulls Carmine into a dreamlike world where reality blurs, can her friends reach her before she slips away for good? Written and directed by Suri Williams.

Starting Somewhere

With nothing but a dream and the weight of his past, Tyler Burton is about to find out if starting over is the hardest part—or just the beginning. Written by Antonio Pitts; directed by Sydney Goodley.

Stay Inside

A midnight alert. A locked door. A warning to trust no one. But when the knocking starts, can you keep the door shut? Written and directed by Madysen Dougherty.