Three outstanding films created by Viewpoint film students were showcased at the renowned All American High School Film Festival (AAHFF), with one earning a top award for Best Production Design. The event, which took place from October 17-19 in New York City, is recognized as the world’s largest high school film festival. The festival featured a selection of 700+ films out of 2,600 submissions, with only 200 films nominated for various awards. 

Viewpoint’s films selected for screening included:

• Chronicles of Peter and Sean – Samuel Green ’25 (Documentary)
• How It Should Be – Natalie Yerelekian ’25 (Drama)
• The Backseat – Ben Shore ’25 (Drama)

How It Should Be, written and directed by Natalie Yerelekian ’25, won Best Production Design and was selected for the festival’s exclusive “Best of Fest” showcase, a Saturday evening screening reserved for the top films of the event. The film also earned nominations for Best Drama and Female Rising Star, while The Backseat was nominated for Best Sound Design.

“The audience’s reaction was incredible,” said Monica Hoenig, Film Teacher at Viewpoint School. “To see our students’ work shown in front of hundreds of people and feel the laughter, clapping, and cheering was pure joy. We’re so proud of what our filmmakers are creating and how their work continues to stand out among thousands of submissions from around the world.”

Viewpoint has participated in the AAHFF since 2018 and has received awards for the past three years, a testament to the Viewpoint Film Program’s continued excellence in storytelling, technical skill, and collaboration. The festival also offers students the chance to connect with film schools, industry professionals, and peers.

“It was such a powerful experience for the students,” Hoenig said. “Being there together, seeing their work on the big screen, and celebrating their creativity. It’s something I hope even more of our students can experience in the years ahead.”