A research grant from Westminster College’s Drinko Center for Undergraduate Research helped a Westminster College senior bring her film idea to life and win a Best in Show award at a fall film contest.

Brittany Marburger, a creative media production major from Evans City, Pa., wrote the short film “The Watchful Eyes” and directed it with junior Madyson Treharne, a creative media production and English double major. The film was entered in Westminster’s fall Titan Film Festival—Thriller Edition. Entries were assessed for storytelling, use of a required prop and creative and technical merit.

“The Watchful Eyes” follows a young boy who sees glimpses of a mysterious figure watching him. As his paranoia grows, he follows the figure into the woods, only to find himself in the hands of a predator.

“Working on ‘The Watchful Eyes’ taught me valuable skills in managing a project from concept to completion, problem solving and collaborating effectively,” said Marburger. These skills, she said, will be useful in any field as they “build flexibility and resourcefulness.”

“I also gained experience in visual storytelling, which has strengthened my ability to communicate ideas clearly and think critically—qualities that will be beneficial in any future role,” she said.

This film marks Marburger’s fourth Titan Film Festival award in three years. Marburger said that with each film, she gains more experience in the production process. Learning outside of a traditional classroom added educational value through creative freedom while balancing goals and deadlines.

“The biggest difference was having to solve problems on the spot and adapt quickly which ultimately made the process feel more rewarding and gave me confidence in my ability to manage projects independently,” said Marburger.

“Brittany is a visionary filmmaker whose creativity shines through in every project she takes on. Her storytelling is both nuanced and compelling, showcasing a rare ability to weave depth and emotion into her work. I can't wait to see what she does after college,” said Dr. Trisha Cowen, associate professor of English. Cowen served as Marburger’s faculty adviser throughout the writing and production process.

“There are so many aspects of filmmaking that require funding which is why having support from Drinko is invaluable,” said Marburger. “Every time I work on a film, I grow a little more, become more organized, more efficient and develop new skills along the way. Winning Best in Show was a great honor and it reinforced my passion for storytelling while motivating me to continue pushing my creative boundaries.”

Westminster’s Drinko Center for Undergraduate Research financially supports undergraduate research through various grants aimed at either the undertaking of research and creative projects at Westminster College or the external presentation and dissemination of research and creative works at conferences.

For more information on the Drinko Center, contact director Dr. Patrick Lackey at ugresearch@westminster.edu.

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