Youth Film Showcase | Jarico Films

Youth Film Showcase | Jarico Films for Youth

Doors 2:30PM | Films 3:00PM

The Mighty Niagara Film Fest and Jarico Films for Youth program of outstanding short films.

Prepare to be entertained and inspired as you experience a diverse range of films crafted by these young filmmakers. From thought-provoking dramas to heartwarming comedies, this program showcases the immense talent and unique storytelling perspectives of future young filmmakers. Be part of this remarkable event that celebrates their passion, dedication, and stories.

Program line up:

Speculo – Mercedes Wilson (5 mins)
Two Cowboys a Damsel & Jim – Sydney Sheere (5 mins)
Gone Fishing Along the Okefenokee – Hawkin Paleczny (32 mins)
Vanishing Point – Zoe Ventnor (5 mins)
The Magic 8 Ball 1 & 2 – Jackson & Ali Lupish (8 mins)
NERDMAN – Jarico Films for Youth & Centennial Studios (20 mins)

More info:

Gone Fishing Along the Okefenokee
Canada, 2023. Directed by Hawkin Paleczny. 32 min

Prepare to be captivated by ‘Gone Fishing Along the Okefenokee,’ a compelling short film by youth Indie filmmaker Hawkin Paleczny that seamlessly blends intense action with socially relevant storytelling. This unforgettable cinematic masterpiece delves into the challenges of a young working-class hero battling corporate greed and environmental exploitation, addressing urgent issues of our time. ‘Gone Fishing Along the Okefenokee’ immerses audiences in a thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of job loss, financial insecurity, and mental health struggles, leaving a lasting impact on viewers who crave stories that provoke thought and inspire action. With dynamic characters and visually stunning cinematography, this film delivers an adrenaline rush like no other. Witness an edge-of-your-seat fight scene that demands justice and inspires change, as the story unfolds with thrilling action sequences interwoven with powerful messages.

The Magic 8 Ball 1 & 2
Canada, 2023. Created by Jackson Lupish & Ali Lupish

During the pandemic, Ali and Jackson Lupish crafted “The Magic 8 Ball,” winning hearts at the first-ever solitude short film fest and gaining traction on various online platforms in 2020. Now, in 2023, Jackson aims to create a sequel and turn it into an ongoing series. Proudly presenting the first two chapters of “The Magic 8 Ball” at the film festival, they invite you to embark on a captivating journey filled with mystery, magic, and emotion, setting the stage for an imaginative narrative that transcends boundaries and leaves audiences eager for more.

NeRDMAN of (the Unexplainable Imagination of Reece Fisher)
Canada, 2023. Directed by Erica Sherwood & Jason Lupish in collaboration with Welland Centennial High School Students. 22mins

Inspired by the Oscar Winning film Birdman; NERDMAN was filmed as part of Jarico Films for Youth’s Short Film Bootcamp. 19 aspiring youth actors and filmmakers collaborated with more than 20 professional mentors, embracing technical challenges and fostering camaraderie. NERDMAN stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying unity, growth, and the transformative power of mentorship for future storytellers. NERDMAN is a delightful and hilarious short film about Reece, a high schooler on a mission to finish his movie for the school film festival. When his lead actor’s performance proves disastrous, Reece uncovers a quirky power to render people unconscious. As chaos ensues, he and his team set out on a journey to find a replacement actor, turning the production into a rollercoaster of unpredictable twists.

About Jarico Films for Youth
Jarico Films for Youth is a Niagara based, not-for-profit Film Production company that provides professional learning opportunities for youth to explore their love of filmmaking and acting through workshops, and real-life opportunities in the film industry. Workshops offer practical knowledge to young filmmakers and actors at any stage of their career.

Thank you to our venue partners, Landmark Cinemas.