GROVE CITY, PA – The 5th annual Lux Mea Film Festival dazzled audiences with a star-studded evening of talent, creativity, and community spirit on Friday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m. Drawing a crowd of around 1,000 attendees, this year’s Hollywood-themed celebration delivered a night to remember—complete with a red carpet, a lively awards ceremony, and a magical post-show reception.
Held in the beautifully lit SHAL Atrium, the reception buzzed with excitement. Guests lined up out the door for a taste of the delicious catered food, and the air was filled with the sound of live music, adding an elegant and celebratory vibe to the evening. The entire space was transformed into a scene worthy of Hollywood itself—full of energy, laughter, and anticipation. It was a magical experience that brought together filmmakers, students, faculty, and film lovers in true red-carpet fashion.
In addition to honoring the year’s standout films, the evening included a heartfelt tribute to President McNulty, recognizing his retirement and longstanding support of the arts and creative expression on campus.
This year’s festival featured a wide array of powerful films, with many leaving lasting impressions on audiences and judges alike. The awards ceremony highlighted outstanding achievements across multiple categories, showcasing the diverse talents of student and independent filmmakers.
2025 Lux Mea Film Festival Award Winners:
- Best Production Design: Rook – Contessa DiGuglielmo
- Best Female Actor: Contessa DiGuglielmo – Rook
- Best Male Actor: Caleb Kapusinski – Carry Weight
- Best Cinematography (Documentary): Helene – William Hearn
- Best Cinematography (Narrative): Carry Weight – Kobi Bui
- Best Editing: Helene – William Hearn
- Best Audio Mixing/Editing: Carry Weight – Kobi Bui
- Best Visual SFX: From Your College Dad – Blaise Kilmartin & Greta Paulding
- Best Original Score: Don’t Go Molly Rose – Ian Apel
- Best Director: Rook – Contessa DiGuglielmo
- Best Screenplay: Rook – Contessa DiGuglielmo
- Best Super Short: Spring Break – Gavin Rhodes
- Best Documentary: Helene – William Hearn
- Best Narrative: Rook – Contessa DiGuglielmo
- Audience Favorite: Carry Weight – Kobi Bui
The Lux Mea Film Festival continues to shine as a premier platform for emerging filmmakers, offering a space to inspire, connect, and celebrate the art of storytelling. With this year’s record turnout, electric energy, and a touch of movie magic, the 5th anniversary has set a new standard for the years to come.