Celebrating Young Filmmakers
JULY 25, 2024 | OPENING RECEPTION PROGRAM
Opening Remarks
ALEXANDRIA DOUGLAS
FYFF Assistant Director
iMichigan Productions
COLETTE BOYD
Noon & 4 P.M. News Anchor
CBS WNEM TV5
EMCEE
Special Remarks
MAYOR SHELDON NEELEY
Introduction FYFF Featured Films
JUSTIN R. BROWN
8-Time Emmy®Award Winner
FYFF Director
Unseen Heroes: Caregivers in America
The Necklace
Motor City Possum Rescue
iMichigan Productions Legacy Award
RUSSELL WILLIAMS, II
2-Time Academy Award Winner
Introduction FYFF Featured Films
JUSTIN R. BROWN
The Bottle
Health to the Company
The Gold Ones
Talk Back with Filmmakers
COLETTE BOYD
CAITLYN SHAW (HEALTH TO THE COMPANY)
WALLACE HILL V (THE GOLD ONES)
RYAN HOMROCKY (THE BOTTLE)
DONNA ULLRICH
Producer, Board Member, iMichigan Productions
Closing Remarks
JUSTIN R. BROWN
JULY 28, 2024 | CLOSING RECEPTION PROGRAM
Opening Remarks
ALEXANDRIA DOUGLAS
FYFF Assistant Director
iMichigan Productions
Introduction FYFF Special Awards
JUSTIN R. BROWN
8-Time Emmy®Award Winner
FYFF Director
Industry Award
Heart Award
Audience Choice Award
Movie Screening
Closing Remarks
JUSTIN R. BROWN
Alexandria Douglas Assist. Director, FYFF
SCHEDULE
JULY 25, 2024
Opening Reception
Featuring Michigan Filmmakers
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | FIA, 1120 E Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48503
JULY 26, 2024
Finalist Movie Screenings
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Riverfront Conference Center 1 Riverfront Plaza, Flint, MI 48502
JULY 27, 2024
Finalist Movie Screenings
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Gloria Coles Flint Public Library 1026 E Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48503
FYFF Awards View Party
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Ferris Wheel 615 Saginaw St, Flint, MI 48502
JULY 28, 2024
Closing Reception
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | FIA, 1120 E Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48503
TICKETS ARE FREE MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND
JUSTIN R. BROWN Eight-Time Emmy®Award Winner Director, FYFF
On behalf of the Board of Directors, Host Committee and the Executive Planning Committee, it is with extreme pride and pleasure that we welcome you to the 8th Annual Flint Film Festival Awards which serves as the organization’s signature fundraiser for the year!
Thank you for joining us this evening as we celebrate exceptional young filmmakers and pay tribute to their extraordinary achievements.
The9th Annual Flint Youth Film Festival shines a spotlight on filmmakers ages 25 and younger. The festival is designed to educate, celebrate and encourage youth filmmakers by screening officially selected work, encouraging their creative activities, providing informative workshops, and culminating with the Awards Ceremony.
The Flint Youth Film Festival is sponsored by iMichigan Productions, Flint Institute of Arts Museum and Art School, Share Art Genesee, James A. Welch Foundation, A.G. Bishop Charitable Trust, and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. This activity is supported in part by Michigan Arts and Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. There is no way to measure the gratitude we have for all our distinguished corporate sponsors.
Thank you and enjoy!
Justin R. Browns
Justin R. Brown
Award Winning Writer, Director, Director, FYFF
Good Evening,
GREETINGS
ALEXANDRIA DOUGLAS
Assistant Director, FYFF
We’re so grateful for everyone who helped make this evening a success. We are thrilled to be here celebrating phenomenal filmmakers. None of this would have been possible without the help of our sponsors whose generous support allows us to continue our impactful work with aspiring youth in the year ahead.
The heart of what we do is our filmmakers. These young people embrace challenges, see mistakes as opportunities to learn, and persist in the face of setbacks.
We must express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for joining us virtually tonight and consistently supporting the mission. Your help contributes to the continuation of this important work.
Regards
Alexandria Douglas
Alexandria Douglas Assistant Director, FYFF
COLETTE BOYD
Noon & 4 P.M. News Anchor
CBS WNEM TV5
Colette invites you to join her weekdays on TV-5 News at Noon and their News at 4 P.M. She’s excited to give you an afternoon jolt and inspire you!
Colette has worn many ‘hats’ at TV-5 as a reporter, morning, noon & evening anchor since starting at TV-5 in 2013. Colette says her favorite ‘hat’ is highlighting local talent, & movers & shakers in Mid-MI & infusing inspiration & the little extras to make viewers smile and know web are all in this together.
Colette says, “For me it's a perfect mix. I get to do what I love at Noon & 4 P.M. informing viewers & letting them know how to keep their families safe & healthy- then as a hands on mom, enjoy precious time with my little sweethearts, Coliette & Jaeken, after-school, in the evenings, and on weekends.”
To say Colette is a diehard Wolverine is an understatement. She earned her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. The native Detroiter even frequently shouts a random “Go Blue!”. Colette began her broadcast career as an auto show spokesmodel, reporter in Florida, anchor/reporter in Lansing then made the trek to MidMichigan. Colette loves living in the Great Lakes Bay region and feels right at home. She even calls viewers her extended family and always lets you know you are her sweet friend.
When you see Colette out and about she would love for you to say hello. If you have a story idea, or just want to chit-chat, connect with Colette on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
MAYOR SHELDON NEELEY SPECIAL GUEST
SheldonNeeleyisalifelongresidentofFlint.Heisafather,smallbusinessowner,andamanof Godwithanenduringcommitmenttoservinghisneighborsandhiscommunity. BornSeptember20,1969,atHurleyMedicalCenter,NeeleyisthesonofMarvaNeeleyand SamNeeley.HeattendedBuncheElementarySchoolandgraduatedfromFlintNorthernHigh Schoolin1986.Hewentontoearnanassociate’sdegreefromDeltaCommunityCollegeand attendedSaginawValleyStateUniversity.
Hespent27yearsworkingasabroadcastengineerforWJRT-12inFlintandwasthelocalunion presidentfortheNationalAssociationofBroadcastEmployeesandTechniciansCommunicationWorkersofAmericauntil2020.
HealsoworkedasacounselorinFlintCommunitySchoolsfor10yearsandservedas voluntaryCEOoftheFlintInnerCityJuniorGolfLeague,foundedbyhisfather. Hiscommitmenttopublicservicestartedin2002whenhejoinedtheFlintCivilService Commission,aboardthatinvestigatesclaimsofwrongdoingatCityHall.In2005,hewas electedtotheCityCouncil,thefirstAfrican-Americancouncilpersonelectedfromthe6th Ward,araciallydiverseareaservingFlint’scentralwestside.Re-electedin2009and2013, NeeleysuccessfullypassedordinancestocurbtruancyandestablishUniversityAvenueby renamingthemaincorridorbetweentheUniversityofMichigan-FlintandKetteringUniversity. In2014,theresidentsofFlintelectedNeeleytothestateHouseofRepresentativesserving thecity’s34thDistrict.Neeleywonnearly50percentofthevoteagainstapoolofeight Democraticprimarycandidatesandwentontonab91percentofthevoteinthegeneral election.Hewentontowinlandslidere-electionvictoriesin2016and2018.
InthestateHouse,NeeleyfoughtonbehalfoftheresidentsofFlintduringtheFlintWater Crisis—helpingtobringmillionsofdollarsinaidtothecity,andchangingstatelawtorequire residentsbeinformedwheneverharmfulelementsarepresentintheirdrinkingwater.
BOARD MEMBER
DONNA ULLRICH
Producer Co-Founder
iMichigan Productions
Donna Ullrich is an accomplished communications professional with a proven track record in both practice and academia. Her expertise spans public relations, grant writing, and higher education, making her a valuable asset to iMichigan Productions. She has a M.A. in mass communication and a law degree from the University of Detroit. She also has a certification in etiquette and protocol, Donna’s ability to effectively communicate complex ideas, coupled with her experience in managing large-scale projects, has been instrumental in the success of iMichigan initiatives.
Her recognition includes two EMMY nominations (2011, 2012) for iMichigan Productions’ “The Michigan Experience: The American Civil War Years.” I edited a companion photography book on the same subject, published in 2014. I have also authored children's books, including “Oh, My Word” (2018) and “I Knew You’d Understand” (2016), illustrated by UM-Flint art students and faculty and St John Street Story of a Neighborhood (2024) and Home Bittersweet Home (2024).
RUSSELL WILLIAMS, II
Two-Time Academy Award-Winner
Russell Williams, II is a distinguished two-time Oscar winner, celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the film industry. With a career spanning over four decades, Russell has worked on some of the most iconic films and television series, making a lasting impact on the art of sound in cinema.
Russell's journey began with a passion for sound and a dedication to excellence that led him to pursue a career in sound engineering. He earned his first Academy Award for Best Sound for his work on the film "Glory" (1989), followed by a second Oscar for "Dances with Wolves" (1990). His innovative techniques and attention to detail have set new standards in the industry, earning him widespread recognition and respect.
Throughout his career, Russell has collaborated with numerous acclaimed directors and producers, contributing to the success of many notable projects. His expertise has not only enhanced the auditory experience of films but has also played a critical role in storytelling, bringing depth and authenticity to the cinematic experience.
Beyond his work in sound engineering, Russell is a dedicated educator and mentor, sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation of filmmakers. He has taught at several prestigious institutions, inspiring students to pursue their dreams and excel in the field of sound mixing.
Russell Williams' legacy extends beyond his impressive accolades; he is a trailblazer who has shaped the landscape of sound in film, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His commitment to excellence and innovation continues to influence and inspire filmmakers around the world.
FINALISTS
Brocolli Chase - Lake Geneva, WI
Love Don’t Bully - Milwaukee, WI
The Sasquatch Dance - Denver, CO
The Magic Trashcan - Denver, CO
The Night is Darkening - Denver, CO
Blue Butterfly Day - Denver, CO
FINALISTS
16-18 Fiction
Breadwinners! - Savannah, GA
Johnny Jr. - Normandy Park, WA
Delacer - San Francisco, CA
A+ - Denver, CO
Refill - St. John, KS
Nicked Nacks - Spokane Valley, WA
The Necklace - Ann Arbor, MI
Listen to Mom - Ossining, NY
More Than A Player - Pottstown, PA
Motor City Possum Rescue - Troy, MI
Grandfather - Mechanicsburg, PA
FINALISTS
19-21 Fiction
The Letter - Ithaca, NY
I’m Seeing an Invisible Man - Oregon City, OR
Life in Color - Waterford, VA
Laszlo - Goshen, IN
Car Trouble - Snoqualmie, WA
The Carrot Peddler’s LamentTarzana, CA
Porcupine - Chicago, IL
Soliloquy - Las Vegas, NV
The Other Man - Windsor, NY
Magnetic Massacre - Franklin, OH
A Different Voice - Haiku, HI
LEAF Plays the Portland House of
FINALISTS
22-25 Fiction
Chocolate Chip - Luxor, PA
The Winged Detectives - New Haven, CT
Precocious - Boston, MA
The Wasps Nest - Eagan, MN
The Gold Ones - Grand Blanc, MI
Good Grief - Hazelwood, MO
Porter’s - Spring Grove, IL
Down the Drain - Pittsburgh, PA
The Bottle - Macomb, MI
22-25 Non-Fiction
Red - Abington, MA
Make Art, Reese! - North Hills, CA
Grizzly Business - Portland, OR
Pondering Friendship - Laguna
Star Struck - Laguna Beach, CA
Solar Body - Laguna Beach, CA
Forget Me Not - Laguna Beach, CA
FINALISTS
Experimental La Jolla - Seattle, WA
INFRARED - Greenwich, CT
Change of Heart - Houston, TX
Fermata in G Minor - Burien, WA
Nice to Meet You, ArianaAnnadale-on-Hudson, NY
The Photographer - Farmville, VA
Feel the Breeze - Newbury Park, CA
Labyrinth - Deerfield, MA
Tourner - Salt Lake City, UT
We are proud to support the Flint Youth Film Festival, empowering the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We would like to thank all of our Generous Sponsors, Donors and Contributors, Program Speakers, Executive Planning Committee Members, Board of Directors, Staff and Volunteers.
FUNDED BY:
We are proud to support Flint Youth Film Festival
The council is dedicated to ensuring that every citizen and community in Michigan enjoys the civic, economic and educational benefits of arts and culture.
ABOUT US
Founded by Award-winning television producer, Rodney W. Brown, iMP is a non-profit corporation that combines media production with education. iMP’s Flagship program, the Flint Youth Film Festival introduces the art of filmmaking to young filmmakers between the ages of 13 and 25 and provides these young filmmakers with venues for developing their storytelling talent.
FILM APPRECIATION ACADEMY
For ages 13-25, this interactive online curriculum offers younger students the opportunity to watch major motion pictures and explore with the moderator all aspects of film making --- production elements and values, techniques and skills, plots and meaning, expression and voice, as well as career opportunities.
YOUTH MEDIA PROJECT
YMP provides experiential learning opportunities for future filmmakers, to continue preserving the many stories of America's Veterans with the help of these students and offering student workshops at community hubs throughout the city with opportunities to work with professional mentors.
FLINT’S GOT TALENT
Flint’s Got Talent shines a spotlight on young talent ages 13-25, in Flint, Michigan. FGT provides youth with a healthy, positive, and public experience that reinforces their self-worth and strengthen their skills in front of and behind the camera. iMichigan Productions serves as a bridge to media jobs in the 21st Century.
FLINT YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL
The Flint Youth Film Festival introduces the art of filmmaking to young filmmakers under the age of 25. It provides these young filmmakers with venues for developing their storytelling talents as well as opportunities to share creative work with peers, the public and professional filmmakers and screenwriters.
