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2026 Short Film Festival
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Thank you to our Critics who provided comments for our filmmakers.
- Tripp Burton
- English/Theatre teacher at Minooka Community High School
- Tom Stajmiger
- Film producer of the Tubi Original vampire horror film "Captive." Director the award-winning short film "Bunker."
- Rachel McCulloch (Warren Theatre Alum)
- Hi all! My name is Rachel McCulloch (she/her) and I am a Director based in Tampa, FL. I graduated from University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point with a B.A. in Drama with a focus in directing in May of 2025. There I expanded my skills in directing, acting, lighting design, and more. I now work for a social media production company where we film comedy skits and work with various entertainers like Nancy Cartwright and Dental Digest! I love supporting the arts and helping the younger generation in pursuing their passions so don't be afraid to reach out, my instagram is @xraileenx <3 (p.s. GBG)
- Ben Kaye
- Ben Kaye is a freelance arts critic in the Chicagoland area, whose work has been featured in the Chicago Reader, Newcity Stage, and The Spool. They are a frequent contributor at cinefile.info, and they review theatrical productions at benkayewords.org.
- Max Tourt (Warren Theatre Alum)
- I'm an actor based in Los Angeles! I have done commercials for Microsoft, Enterprise & smaller brands like Hummingbird Networks & Sunny Creative. I have 15 years experience doing improv comedy where I learned at The Second City Chicago and most recently UCB. I'll never forget my roots though, as a member of Giggles N Bits being taught by the one and only Mr. Miller!
- Nick Mann
- Nick Mann is a screenwriter from rural Illinois whose work reflects the influence of small town American upbringing. Both an EICC and SIU alumni, he studied under the guidance of such industry leaders as Todd Abrams, Pirooz Kaleyah, Wago Kreider, etc. Now a Quad City resident, he spends his days in the cinema community, usually frequenting a boutique cinema in downtown Davenport - The Last Picture House.
- Skylyr Choe (Warren Theatre Alum)
- Way back when, I used to be a student at Warren and heavily involved in the drama club program (I graduated in 2020 rip, but I still love to support the boosters and shows when I can). I also have a BFA in art therapy and am very well versed in the use of artistic mediums for conveying messages and serving as containers for big thoughts and feelings.
- Maximilian Kellerhals (Warren Theatre Alum)
- I am a Warren High School Alum (Class of 2019.) In College I majored in Finance but minored in Film and Studio Art. I have made a couple short films and looking to do more. As a side hobby I review movies and tv shows on my YouTube channel Million Dollar Media. The Pillow.
- Gabi Guevara (Warren Theatre Alum)
- Gabi Guevara is a Mechanical Engineer dedicated to ensuring the world stays supplied with essential paper products. By blending technical engineering expertise with consumer insights, she works "backstage" in the industrial world, focusing on continuous improvements to deliver the highest quality products for everyone. In her downtime, Gabi enjoys watching films, seeing live shows, and reflecting on how her foundational love for building and design first began in the theatre.
- Lee Lee
- I am a retired educator with a passion for supporting young filmmakers and creative learning. As the mother of an emerging filmmaker, I have firsthand experience with the full filmmaking process—from storyboarding and scriptwriting to casting, filming, and editing. I am dedicated to encouraging young creatives to develop their skills, collaborate effectively, and bring their ideas to life through film.
- Braden Whiteside (Warren Theatre Alum)
- Braden is a WTHS alum from the class of 2020 (yeah that one…). After graduating he joined Jacknjellify, an animation studio, as a sound designer on the hit web series 'Battle for Dream Island.’ It has recently became the first ever indie-animated web show to receive widespread distribution in cinemas across America. In his free time, he is a freelancer and avid enjoyer of the arts.
- Jenn Kelly (Warren Theatre Alum)
- Jenn Kelly is a WTHS alumna who was heavily involved in theatre, speech team, and the comedy improv troupe Giggles 'n Bits during high school. She continued speech and theatre for a short time in college and has always had a love for the theatrical arts, creativity, and art in all forms. These days, Jenn spends more time focused on painting and physical art mediums. You can find some of her artwork on Instagram at @goghvans.
- Egi Canie
- Egi Canie is an Albanian-American cinematographer focused on visual storytelling. He studied Film & Digital Media at Loyola University Chicago, where he was named Outstanding Film Student (2024). Since then, he’s worked across feature films and TV, including DP’ing One Step Closer To Hell (2025), bringing a strong eye for lighting, composition, and tone to every project.
- Hart Lang
- Hart Lang is a writer, sceenwriter, event producer and Divinity School Student. His current project is a short film called BUGGY.
