TAMPA – A USF Student is sharing Tampa pride with an award winning documentary on Florida State Parks. The film, which features animals and interviews with local unsung heroes, will premiere at the Gasparilla International Film Festival (GIFF) on March 13th.
Alexis Yahre created the short film titled, “Nature’s Secrets: Florida State Parks” to make people aware of the untapped potential these parks have for eco-tourism and community education. She grew up visiting the parks and wanted to share the excitement they offer to people of any age.
The film has already won several awards on the festival circuit, including a nomination for “Best Student Film” and a win for “Best Young Director” at the Cannes World Film Festival. The first theatrical screening will be at GIFF, with others being held across the country over the next year.
“These parks are right in our backyards,” Yahre said. “My new documentary tells our story as a community, and reminds us of the connection we all share.”
“Considering that I made this without a budget or experience, I didn’t expect to see this kind of success. I’m overjoyed that I can be a part of the festival and share a topic that I’m passionate about with the world,” Yahre said.
Yahre is a 21 year-old Senior studying Mass Communications and Broadcast Production at the University of South Florida. She graduates this spring.
Tickets can be purchased from the GIFF website, www.gasparillafilmfestival.com. If you would like more information about the film or Alexis Yahre’s upcoming projects, please call me at (813) 504-0635 or email me at alexis@averent.com