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Corpus Christi 7-Day Film Project inspires next generation of filmmakers

Corpus Christi 7-Day co-founder Heidi Hovda has been part of the competition since the beginning and has seen it grow into a multi-generational event.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Amateur film makers are picking up their cameras for the Corpus Christi 7-Day Film Project

The contest gives cinematographers the chance to write, shoot and edit a film in just the span of a week. 

The contest is in its 16th year; and welcomes fresh local talent who are now following in their parent's filmmaking footsteps.

Corpus Christi 7-Day participant Cameron Zertuche said he appreciates the art of filmmaking and the process that goes into it.

"It's more like creating nothing to something just getting a camera and making something out of that," he said. 

The 15-year-old is continuing a family tradition after his father, who has been a long time competitor in the event.

"He's been doing it for a while, that is what really inspired me to do it, he was the one pushing me to do it, so I thank him," he said. 

Zertuche is leading one of 30 teams competing this year, many of which are fresh faces, including 17-year-old Savannah Hilliard. 

For her, Corpus Christi 7-Day has also become a family affair. 

"My dad had heavy involvement in the early to mid 2000's, and my brother has done it a few times as well," she said. 

Corpus Christi 7-Day co-founder Heidi Hovda has been part of the competition since the beginning and has seen it grow into a multi-generational event.

"I like to think of it as the family that creates together stays together. There is nothing more infectious and exciting for children to see their families have fun, create and put something out into the universe," she said.

Hovda said many of the young film makers use their projects as a way to get into top film schools.

"Even if they don't become big actors, what ends up happening with 7 Day, they got a reel they can take to an agent," she said. "If they want to go to Hollywood, they've got something they can show a producer. I've got the chops, look what I did."

But before they make it that far, qualifying movies will be screened for everyone to see at Alamo Draft House in September.

Like every year, teams will have to use 3 essential elements and each year they are different.  This year they must use a flower as a prop, the name Casey as a character who struggles with flexibility, and the line "You made that look easy" or "You made that look difficult."

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