Three student films from Allen High School have advanced to the State UIL Film Festival, marking a milestone for the school’s animation program.
“Eggshells,” directed by Raissa Dourado Viana; “Memorias,” directed by Araceli Thompson; and “Unmasked,” directed by Ashley Nguyen, have advanced in the Digital Animation category. Advancing to state places the films among the top six digital animations selected for continued competition.
With three of the six finalist spots in Digital Animation, Allen High School represents half of the state’s finalists in the category.
The state film festival is scheduled for late February and includes three rounds of judging to determine final placements across the state.
The films were submitted earlier this semester as part of the UIL Film Festival competition, including “What Lurks In The Deep,” directed by Trinity Sun, which did not continue to the State level.
Students in Animation 2 and Practicum in Animation spent the fall semester developing their projects in class, focusing on storytelling, technical execution, and post-production.
According to Animation and Advertising teacher Jason Marshall, this year’s submissions represent the strongest body of work the program has produced.
“I think the four animations that we submitted this year are the best we have ever had,” said Jason, Animation and Advertising teacher. “I'm so proud of all of them.”
Memorias
Directed by Araceli Thompson
Watch here: https://youtu.be/3pA3Z-nSWuM?si=9BFBbbErD9XT2Hr4
Araceli, a senior and director and animator of “Memorias,” said her film was inspired by the loss of her grandmother.
“The loss of my grandmother and having to go back to her house to move things out,” said Araceli. “Coming to terms with your grief while moving forward and cherishing the memories and people you have now.”
She explained that creating the film required animation and drawing skills, along with familiarity in editing and sound design. While much of her technical growth came from independent research and tutorials, her coursework at Allen High School helped support the production process.
Unmasked
Directed by Ashley Nguyen
Watch here: https://youtu.be/2CPG9xr6Hn4?si=Spnhz9bmqQE7Cl_U
Ashley, a senior and director of “Unmasked,” said her story stemmed from personal experiences with communication and vulnerability.
“I want the audience to be able to relate to the main characters and understand how unhealthy it can be to hide behind a mask,” said Ashley.
The project incorporated both 3D and 2D animation. Ashley and her team utilized Autodesk Maya for modeling, texturing, rigging, and rendering, then combined elements during the compositing stage. She noted that while the foundation for these skills was developed in class, additional research and experimentation were required to complete the final product.
Eggshells
Directed by Raissa Dourado Viana
Watch here: https://youtu.be/k3JuSUXtt1w?si=tNUJ0dKRN0GF81Lx
Raissa, a senior and director of “Eggshells,” said the concept had been developing since her sophomore year and evolved from a purely comedic idea into a story with greater emotional depth
“For those who unfortunately can relate to being in his position, I hope that this film can serve as catharsis, show that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and that friends are the family you choose,” said Raissa.
The production required knowledge of the 12 principles of animation as well as experience with Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe After Effects, and Adobe Premiere. Raissa said the collaborative environment at Allen High School encouraged students to push beyond expectations and refine their craft.
What Lurks In The Deep
Directed by Trinity Sun
Watch here: https://youtu.be/lY_aM8gf388?si=xu4jFek52ROvgl9z
Trinity, a senior and director, storyboarder, writer, and animator for “What Lurks In The Deep,” drew inspiration from imaginative world building and underwater exploration.
“My main inspiration for What Lurks In The Deep was the video game Subnautica,” said Trinity. “I want people to be inspired by my work, just as I was also inspired by other animators.”
The traditionally animated film required strong drawing, writing, and 2D animation skills. Trinity said she developed her animation foundation through Allen High School’s animation courses, while continuing to build additional skills independently outside of school.
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The advancement of three digital animation films to the state level reflects both the students’ dedication and the continued growth of the animation program at Allen High School. Congratulations to these student directors for advancing to the UIL State Film Festival.