AirTV Awards review: The best of student film-making

AirTV’s annual awards took place on Tuesday evening at the Macrobert Arts Centre, with an incredible selection of films which saw Through the Darkness, A Quiet Conclusion and Prefer Not to Say claiming numerous awards. Through the Darkness from director Stan Stawowiak, tells the touching story of a girl overcoming her fears to achieve her dreams. The main role of Amelia Prudent was played by Sophia Riederer beautifully. Prudent watches detective shows and longs to be an actress, with a particular stand out scene transforming into a black and white, noir detective series. The 1950’s aesthetic was executed well, with the music and costumes bringing the time period to life. Additionally, a strong script works produces an overall heart-warming and relatable film. It won best director, best script, best editing and best supporting performance for Logan Campbell’s role as Danny Blanchard.Next was A Quiet Conclusion from director Jack Buchanan, who brought astounding cinematography to the screen. So, it’s no surprise it won best cinematography along with best sound, best music and best leading performance for Toni Benedetti. 

It’s a subtle story about a dramatic event: the end of the world. It follows two girls walking through a decayed and destroyed land. I liked the details, between the characters the small interactions as the film continued.The first time I watched it, I felt it was slightly too long, but on reflection, I think it works because you get a real sense of the characters stuck in this nothingness. Overall, it’s an interesting watch.Finally, Prefer Not to Say from director Maili Fraser, won the alumni award and best film. It tells the story of a young person moving to university and going on a journey of gender discovery.The shots were really beautiful throughout the film, especially a close up of the main character Charlir putting on lip-gloss and a dress to see their grandma, which really portrays not feeling comfortable or yourself.Later there is a few shots of Barbie’s and books for girls all these sorts of things you give kids that push a gender stereotype. They throw them away, and begins to feel better.The film tells a really important story, and gives an honest insight to a topic not many people fully understand. The story, the editing, the acting and the cinematography all make it an incredible film and definitely my favourite from the ATVAS.All films are available on the AirTV  YouTube channel now.