Original films by two current students and two December 2024 graduates were shown at the Neumann Inspires Film Festival on April 4 and 5.

Delaney Jack, Ryan Butler, Catherine Fochi, and Ethan Graci got the red-carpet treatment from festival organizers. Their short films – none longer than 11 minutes – were shown on Friday night and again on Saturday morning.

Jack’s Rebound tells the story of her brother, a former professional basketball player. After years of defining himself through the sport, he faces the challenge of rebuilding his identity off the court. The film explores how walking away from a lifelong dream isn’t the end. It’s the start of something new.

In The Weight of Victory by Butler, Jim DiBattista, winner of “The Biggest Loser” season 18, talks about his personal highs and lows after competing in the intense reality show. The film highlights the real side of reality shows and Jim’s difficult struggles and inspirational victories.

Fochi, a 2024 graduate, provides an eye-opening glimpse into the work and passion of animators in her film, Frame by Frame. Her work generates thought about the nature and importance of art.

Graci’s Too Old, another film by a 2024 grad, offers a heartfelt look at the life and adventures of the filmmaker’s 93-year-old grandmother. It reminds us that you’re never too old to live life to the fullest.

The feature attraction of the third Neumann Inspires Film Festival was the world premiere of No Risk, No Gain: The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. The documentary, written and directed by Sara McDermott Jain, captures what it truly means to be a member of the congregation and why - even as vowed, religious life seems to be disappearing - the world needs their legacy now more than ever.

In addition to the documentary, the festival included screenings of 25 original short films, several workshops, and an awards ceremony.