Local school hosts annual Ryan K. Wilson Memorial Owls Television Network Film Fest
By Samantha Bambino
The Times
It was September 2001, and students at Bensalem High School were just starting to get back into the rhythm of early mornings, lectures and homework after three months of summer bliss. That is, until the entire country was shaken to its core. As everyone struggled to make sense of what unfolded on the morning of the 11th, the BHS community craved a way to pay tribute to all who lost their lives in the tragedy.
Student Ryan K. Wilson knew the perfect way.
Pulling an all-nighter, Wilson edited a touching memorial video at his house, coming to school the next morning with a masterpiece that moved the entire student body. This is just one of many examples of how Wilson, a dedicated Owls Television Network member, went above and beyond when it came to production.
Unfortunately, the 2004 BHS graduate’s life was cut short when he passed away in 2007. To ensure his exemplary work lived on in the walls of his alma mater, Wilson’s family generously set up the Ryan K. Wilson Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded each year to OTN students who share his passion for film.
“His parents asked that we always keep him alive,” said OTN teacher and director C.J. Mills.
BHS has kept its word, working to ensure the current generation of Owls knows his name and all it stands for. To raise money for the award, the school hosted its annual Ryan K. Wilson Memorial OTN Film Fest on April 10, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the scholarship. After paying the affordable $5 ticket fee, students, families, staff and community members packed into the school’s auditorium for an evening of talent.
According to Mills, the film competition is open to all OTN students who enjoy acting in, directing and editing their own independent films. Just as Wilson dabbled in an array of genres, producing everything from documentaries with his brother Jim to comedies that incorporated his sense of humor and ability to do ridiculous stunts, Film Fest entrants are encouraged to explore different areas as well.
This year’s OTN class produced 13 films that were not only shown in the BHS auditorium, but also submitted to Upper Dublin School District’s Greenfield Youth Film Festival and Centennial School District’s Beyond the Lens Film Festival.
After the audience had the chance to enjoy the submissions, the top three were selected by a panel of judges, which Mills said included four teachers and six OTN alumni, most of whom are now professionally involved in film or communications.
In first place was the trio of Victoria Moser, Laura Abele and Destiny Hemsey, whose film “Just One Light” explores the ripple effects of decisions through two girls’ involvement in cyberbullying. Earning second place for “Broke Boys” were Ethan Fan, Sydney Gold, Tommi Haffner, Taylor Haffner, Julia Janzer, Alexis Finazzo, Joe Kass, Zack Bacchus, Jimmy Lee and Tyler Hoang. The film chronicles three broke teenagers looking for a way to make money. Although it seems that robbing a house is the quickest and easiest solution, they find out they couldn’t be more wrong. Kristin Frederick and Emily Cook came in third place for “Confidence,” which follows the journeys of three strong women as they knock down the doors of the sports industry.
Thanks to the support of local sponsors, each winner received a prize. First place was awarded a $120 gift certificate to Texas Roadhouse, while second and third place earned $100 gift certificates to Applebee’s and Carrabba’s Italian Grill (second place got first pick). For Film Fest attendees, Taranova’s Pizza and Philly Pretzel Factory brought discounted pizza and pretzels.
In addition to organizing the Film Fest, Mills helps Wilson’s local legacy live on through An American Celtic Christmas Show, which takes place each December. Now in its seventh year, Mills said more than 100 performers are slated to take the stage this year, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the scholarship. ••
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
