Monarch Film Festival x Filmustage: Empowering the Next Generation

At Filmustage, we’re passionate about empowering the next generation of storytellers by supporting education-focused film initiatives. This year, we proudly supported the inaugural Monarch Film Festival at Mater Dei High School — a showcase of student filmmaking talent, collaboration, and vision. As part of our involvement, Filmustage awarded the Best Screenplay Award at the Honors level with a complimentary one-year subscription to our platform.

The festival was co-founded by Andrew Roberts, Director of Film and Media at Mater Dei, alongside his colleague Kenny Connolly. Together, they created the event as a way to celebrate the talent, dedication, and creativity of their student filmmakers. Across four class levels — Filmmaking I, II, Honors III, and Honors IV — 77 students wrote, produced, edited, and premiered nine original short films, each reflecting their unique voice and collaborative spirit.

Andrew Roberts, a Filmustage Ambassador and seasoned industry professional with over 30 years in entertainment and 17 years in education, emphasized the value of connecting students to real-world tools. He noted that platforms like Filmustage allow him to bridge the ever-evolving professional film industry with the classroom in meaningful and impactful ways — helping students better understand the creative and technical demands of modern filmmaking.

One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the Best Screenplay Award (Honors Level) to senior Ty Bragalone — a standout student in both the Advanced Television Production track and the full four-year filmmaking program. Ty took his concept from idea to completed 15-minute screenplay in just a few weeks, demonstrating a high level of commitment and storytelling instinct. His prize, a one-year Filmustage subscription, is meant to support his next chapter as he continues to grow as a writer and filmmaker.

The success of the festival was felt far beyond the screening room. With backing from sponsors like the New York Film Academy, which awarded $50,000 in scholarships, and the enthusiastic support of families, administrators, and peers, the event exceeded expectations. From red carpet arrivals to professional production values, the festival gave students a genuine taste of the film industry.

The Monarch Film Festival is already gearing up for the future — with more films, expanded school partnerships, and deeper collaboration with sponsors like Filmustage. We’re honored to continue supporting this thriving program and helping students refine their craft with tools designed for modern filmmaking.