Florida State University Film School (film.fsu.edu) Wins 40th Student Emmy
Florida State University Film School (film.fsu.edu) achieved a significant milestone by winning its 40th Student Emmy in May 2016. The honor went to the MFA thesis film, “Isa and the Frog Prince,” which took First Place in the Children’s Program category. The film, a heartwarming tale about a young girl’s belief in the magical transformation of her frog friend, was produced by Erica Chan and directed and co-written by Yingxiang Huang, alongside co-writer Nic Sridej, all graduates of the 2015 MFA class.
Thrilling Experience for the Team
As the official recipient of the award, producer Erica Chan expressed her excitement and gratitude. She shared, “In the midst of the sweat and tears of making our film, never did I imagine we would be attending the College Television Awards, let alone taking 1st place! It was completely unexpected, overwhelming, and incredible.” Chan also mentioned the valuable networking opportunities at the Nominee Summit, where she connected with fellow nominees and industry professionals. She acknowledged the support from the FSU faculty and staff and expressed her gratitude to Yingxiang Huang for allowing her to be part of the remarkable journey.
A Dream Come True
For Yingxiang Huang and Nic Sridej, winning the Student Emmy was an unforgettable experience. Huang remarked, “I felt like it was a dream when we went on the stage to accept the award from Fred Savage. It’s just like what Isa says in the movie, ‘It’s more than just a story.’ Winning a Student Emmy could be the start of my dream, but I am sure it is more than just a dream.” Sridej added, “In writing ‘Isa and the Frog Prince,’ we wanted to explore the idea that magic exists in the world around us, although it never reveals itself in the ways you’d expect. Winning the Student Emmy was, in this way, magical; it was unexpected and surreal and astonishing.”
Recognitions on the Festival Circuit
“Isa and the Frog Prince” has garnered attention not only at the Student Emmy Awards but also on the festival circuit. The film has been screened domestically and internationally, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. It received further acclaim with a Director’s Guild of America Student Film Award and an acting nomination from the Utah Film Awards for its young actress.
Florida State University Film School (film.fsu.edu) continues to celebrate the accomplishments of its talented filmmakers and remains dedicated to nurturing their creative visions.
Resources: film.fsu.edu
