For 11 years, UC Riverside’s Department of Theatre, Film, and Digital Production has supported student filmmakers. On Jan. 15, the 2025 Smartphone Film Festival invited students to submit an original film that was recorded entirely on a smartphone. Taking place in INTS 1128 on Feb. 5, the screening of this year’s films, as well as a vote, Q&A session, and award ceremony, were held. Professor Stu Krieger, a faculty sponsor of the event, has been supporting the festival — and its students — for many years and has witnessed the success of many student films.

“These films just had their premieres at the festival a few weeks ago, so regarding where they go from here, we'll just have to wait and see,” Krieger said. “In past years, some of the films have gone on to be shown at film festivals around the country.”

At its core, the festival serves students as a learning opportunity. Festival Director Kori Chaney, a second-year graduate student in screenwriting, believes that the festival gives students the chance to learn about the rapidly changing industry. She says that filming on a phone gives students a sense of freedom and creativity that is not possible on a traditional camera. Smartphone films have also begun to gain traction professionally.

“It's very useful to know how to film on the phone,” Chaney said. “A few major films right now were filmed on phones. So seeing people do that was, you know, it's relevant.”

The film festival has had great success in its 11 years, with participating students going on to achieve great success in the industry. Nate Hochstetler Ford, the student who founded the festival, has worked as a professional cinematographer for the past seven years, including travel pieces for “National Geographic.” According to Krieger, the important thing to know about filmmaking is that you have to continue to perfect your craft.

“If you want to be a filmmaker, make films,” Krieger said. “TV Series are getting bought; shows are moving from YouTube to HBO because people are producing work — getting it out to the world via social media and other channels and careers are being made. Plus, every time you create work, you're learning, growing, and hopefully getting better to prepare yourself for your next project.”

This year’s Smartphone Film Festival was Krieger’s last year as a faculty sponsor. Assistant Professor of Teaching Christophe Katrib will replace him for future festivals. Students interested in participating in the festival must wait for applications to open in the fall or winter quarter of this coming academic year.

FEATURED PHOTO. The directors of the nominated films sit for a Q&A session.