WMS Student’s film “A Reason for Hope” screens online Sat. Nov. 4

8th grade student Mason Mirabile’s film “A Reason for Hope” is an Honorable Mention film from the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest. Mason’s film will be showcased online on Saturday, November 4 at 11 a.m. CDT. Free tickets are available at https://www.oneearthfilmfest.org/contest-honorable-mention-awards-virtual-screening

This is Mason’s third film to be recognized by the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest. In his 5-minute film “A Reason for Hope,” he interviews World Wildlife Fund’s Dan Riley about the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Then he shows a specific example in Arlington by interviewing Discovery Elementary School’s Principal Dr. Erin Healy and the school building’s Lead Architect Wyck Knox. When the school opened, Discovery was the largest net zero school in the country. “Discovery isn’t just helping the environment with all its eco-friendly features,” says Dr. Healy. “It’s also inspiring students to help the environment and make a difference in the world.” Case in point: Mason is a graduate of this elementary school; he is making a difference by educating his audience via environmental films.

“I am a returning director and have enjoyed participating and watching the festival films over the last few years,” wrote Mason in his contest entry. “I think transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is very important and everyone should learn more about it.”

(This text is lightly edited from an email by Lisa Biehle Files, Young Filmmakers Contest Program Director and Digital Media Associate.)