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More than 300 short films will be featured at this year’s Short. Sweet. Film Fest., which takes place Feb. 28-March 3 at Atlas Cinemas Shaker in Cleveland, Ohio. Among the submissions to be featured in this year’s festival will be two films from ����ֱ�� State University digital media production students – “Heart & Sol,” directed by Cassidy DeVol and Laura McCann, and “Powerball” directed by Nick Thaman and Natalie Gilles and produced by Anthony Furiga and Austin Monte.

Scott Hallgren, associate professor of digital media production in ����ֱ�� State’s School of Media and Journalism, has been involved with the film festival for several years and works with the students submitting films for the event. This year, Hallgren also will moderate a panel on sound and music for film, TV and games on March 2, in addition to hosting the film fest’s student screenings at 7:30 p.m. on Thurs, Feb. 29.

“Short. Sweet. is a lovely regional and international festival in Northeast Ohio that provides opportunities for up-and-coming filmmakers and animators,” Hallgren said. “It’s been a joy to be involved with Mike [Suglio, film fest organizer] and his crew over the last few years as a host, creator and educator. And it’s exciting to see our students’ hard work and dedication being recognized.”

Films from ����ֱ�� State alumni will also be featured at Short. Sweet. Film Fest., including:

• “Pygmalion” by Giana Vigliotti, '23
• “Green Humanity” by Garrett Miller, '22
• “The Blacker The Berry” by Glenn Robinson, '22

Digital Media Production Assistant Professor and former adviser for the Flash Film Commission Becky Rolnick, said the students' acceptance into the film fest is indicative of the immense talent coming out of the digital media production program at ����ֱ�� State.

“The student success at the Short. Sweet. Film Fest. highlights the tremendous strength and creativity of our students and program. Film festivals are a measure of success in the industry, and our DMP program is very proud to help our students shape their voices and take their place at the table."