Salisbury Students Triumph at Mad Monster Film Festival with Award-Winning Short Film

Salisbury Students Shine at Film Festival with Heartfelt Creation

In the vibrant city of Salisbury, an inspiring tale of creativity and resilience unfolded recently. Students from Henderson Independent School, working collaboratively with the Art & Soul Rowan partnership, showcased their brilliance at the renowned Mad Monster Film Festival in Charlotte. Their short film, “The Horror of Trauma,” resonated with audiences and earned them the award for best script among a competitive pool of 27 films.

The Power of Artistic Expression

Shane Manier, a creative coach and trauma-informed care instructor, played a pivotal role in guiding these budding filmmakers. Manier explained, “Through artistic expression, we explore identity and rewrite the narrative of trauma.” The program combines poetry and art with personal development, allowing students to delve deep into their emotions and experiences.

Initially, the idea of submitting a film to a festival was far from their minds. “We were just looking for a creative outlet,” Manier shared. The class unanimously agreed on making a horror movie, leading to a whirlwind of collaboration that included writing the script, directing, and even handling the effects—all while using minimal resources.

“We had only four weeks, meeting just an hour a week,” Manier recalled. “With all the laughter and fun, we probably only filmed for about 30 minutes!” Despite the limited time and a basic camera, the enthusiasm of the students shone through, resulting in a film that captured both humor and a powerful message.

A Memorable Experience at the Festival

With their film in hand, it was time to enter the festival world! Manier had attended the Mad Monster convention before and decided to submit “The Horror of Trauma.” Thanks to a collaboration with Nazareth Children’s Home, the students received passes to attend the festival, where they mingled with fellow filmmakers and even some celebrities.

The atmosphere was electric as the awards were handed out. “Out of 27 films, we were recognized with the best script award!” the excitement in Manier’s voice was palpable. The support from other filmmakers was heartwarming, with many expressing joy at witnessing the students’ hard work and creativity. “The world sees value in us,” a sentiment echoed by the students as they reveled in their achievement.

Transformative Impact on Students

The journey didn’t just stop with making a film. The experience paved the way for profound changes in the students’ lives. Manier emphasized the importance of self-expression, especially for those who have faced trauma. “When you give kids tools to process their emotions, it’s a huge relief,” she explained. The film project provided a safe space for them to explore their identities and reshape their narratives.

As they engaged in creative activities, students learned to break free from the negative labels they had been given. “It’s about realizing that how they view themselves doesn’t have to be defined by their past experiences,” Manier said. This shift leads to a sense of empowerment and the ability to reclaim their stories, making choices that guide their futures.

Building New Pathways

But the benefits extend even further. Manier highlighted that engaging in the arts is significant for brain development, especially for teenagers navigating intense emotions. “Art fosters new neural pathways in the brain,” she noted, helping students learn to pause and react differently in challenging situations.

As a result, many students have reported improved grades and a decrease in behavioral issues. “We’ve seen teens leave gangs and go on to lead successful lives,” Manier shared, her pride in their achievements evident. Success stories vary from student to student, with some finding their way back to their home schools, a significant milestone in their journeys.

The Future Looks Bright

Looking ahead, Manier is excited about what’s next. The creativity and camaraderie witnessed during this project have set the stage for future endeavors. “Each story deserves its recognition, and I can’t wait to see where their paths lead,” she concluded.

In the heart of Salisbury, the journey of these young filmmakers stands as a testament to the power of art, resilience, and the transformative influence of community support.