Columbia Alums Have Films Showcased During Cannes Film Festival

Campus Communications Staff / May 11, 2023

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The prestigious annual international festival presents important professional opportunities for filmmakers.

At least two Columbia College Chicago alums will have good reason to be in Cannes, France, this May as part of the Festival de Cannes (also known as the Cannes Film Festival).

Trevor Osmond ’14, a Cinema and Television Arts and Semester in LA alum, is co-producer of Black Flies, a film starring Sean Penn that will be competing in the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Festival de Cannes. Departing Seniors, produced by Creative Producing Alum Dashawna Wright ’18 MFA, will be one of seven films given Gala screenings at the Fantastic Pavilion. This new hub for genre offerings from around the world makes its debut this year at Cannes’ Marché du Film and is intended to help newcomers integrate more easily, and more quickly, into the industry.

The Festival de Cannes will be held this year from May 16 to 27. The annual 15-day event is an international “rendezvous,” bringing together those interested in the art and business of film. As an international marketplace, the festival offers opportunities for producers and distributers to make important business deals.

Black Flies tells the story of a young paramedic ‘s first year on the job in New York City. Departing Seniors, a comedy-horror film, focuses on a high-school senior who develops psychic powers after a bullying incident and uses his talents to stop a serial killer.

Having their films showcased during this highly visible international event is a significant opportunity for both filmmakers. Congratulations to Trevor and Dashawana!

Are you a member of the Columbia College Chicago community who is having work featured at Cannes? Let us know.

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