SMC Alumni Win Best Picture at Statewide Film Fest
The dynamic film duo “This is Dogtown” – otherwise known as SMC alums Will Tracy and Russ Galusha – took home the big prize at the 2011 Little Rock Film Festival’s 48 Hour Film Project awards ceremony. The duo’s winning short, Calimari Sunset Part IV, was one of a record number of entries in the Little Rock portion of a national competition.
To compete, filmmakers had to write, film, edit and score an original five minute film in only two days. “It is grueling, tiring and frustrating,” said Galusha, “but it’s also the most fun you will ever have while being awake for 48 hours.”
The Little Rock Central graduate has partnered with Tracy, a DeWitt High graduate, on other projects, including several while students at UALR. That history, he said, produced a great team experience and a prize-winning entry. “I worked with several of the members of our team on other projects, so we got along well,” Tracy explained. “Now, we’re excited to see how our film does on a national level.”
The finale festival to announce national and international winners, Filmapalooza, is set for March 2 – 5, 2012 near Taos, New Mexico.
Both Tracy and Galusha hope to work together again soon on another film project. In the meantime, Galusha is working with his editor-producer brother Les on a music video. He is also designing a couple of posters for short films. Tracy, meanwhile, is busy as a proud new father to baby girl Quinn.