46 International Film In Florence The students of HUF Fall 2024 participate in the main campus 48-Hour Film Festival from Italy. Harding University in Florence (HUF) students demonstrated creativity and resilience while participating in the University’s 48-hour film festival. Despite a six-hour time difference and limited resources, the students created a film that earned recognition among their peers in Searcy. The 48-Hour Film Festival, a favorite among Harding’s creative community, challenged teams to produce short films using assigned genres, objects and characters within two days. For the fall 2024 HUF students, the task was particularly daunting as they balanced classes, travel and a unique set of constraints. “We weren’t in Italy very long by the time we created and submitted our film, so it was largely based on what resources and set pieces we had available,” senior Kinsey Curo said. The students’ film, “Villa-Killa,” was set at Harding’s villa in Scandicci, the home base for the study abroad program. The team used their surroundings to create a compelling story under the guidance of instructor of communication Bryan Hudkins, who oversaw the competition. “They brought up participating in the festival, and I encouraged them to go for it,” Hudkins said. “We made it work, even over Zoom.” The team faced a compressed agenda, as the time difference left them with fewer working hours than groups on Harding’s campus. Still, Hudkins praised their effort. “Within those restrictions, they produced a very emotive short story,” Hudkins said. “I’m incredibly proud of what they accomplished.” Senior Karis Hudkins, the lead actress and assistant producer for “Villa-Killa,” reflected on how the experience strengthened her skills. “The festival forces you to work with others and step outside your comfort zone,” she said. “It’s an amazing opportunity to grow as an artist and learn from others.” Her performance earned her the Best Actress award, a moment Curo described as one of the highlights of the project. “Seeing Karis recognized for her work was the most rewarding part,” Curo said. For Bryan Hudkins, the festival was about more than the final product. “The camaraderie achieved and the creativity displayed under such pressure are remarkable,” he said. “We had a great time, and I’m so proud of what they accomplished.” Though the film did not take home first place, the HUF students were celebrated for their commitment and ingenuity. The Harding students in Searcy noted their admiration for the film’s quality despite the challenges the team faced. “It’s incredible to think how they pulled it together despite everything,” junior Jack Stevenson said. “Their dedication shows what it means to really push through under tough circumstances.” Through their perseverance, the HUF students exemplified the creativity and adaptability that defined Harding’s global programs. Harding’s commitment to fostering artistic collaboration and growth shone across continents. Written by Aja Griffin
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