Brendan Bellomo, who graduated in May 2008 from New York University’s Kanbar Institute of Film and Television, Undergraduate Division, in the Tisch School of the Arts, is among the winners of the 36th Annual Student Academy Awards competition. The 2009 winners-12 students in all representing eight colleges and universities-were announced May 18 in Beverly Hills, CA by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The winners participate in a week of industry-related activities and social events, culminating in the awards ceremony on June 13 at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater.
Bellomo’s winning film, Bohemibot, is a Sci-Fi drama combining live-action and CGI. The 25-minute short tells the story of a cyborg harpist, forced to serve as a pilot in the last war on his planet, who struggles to overcome a debilitating injury and the loss of his family. His encounter with a young enemy captive reveals that even the din of war can never silence the voice of the heart. To view the trailer, visit http://bohemibot.com/trailer.htm.
Over 90 students and 80 professionals from around the world volunteered for the film’s cast, art direction, cinematography, costumes, makeup, stunts, sound design, music, and visual effects. Bohemibot was filmed with a grant from the Panavision New Filmmakers Program, which provided a F900 CineAlta for principle photography. Renegade Effects Group generously provided special props and costumes.
Bohemibot is an NYU Tisch School of the Arts Advanced Production and was directed under the supervision of Executive Director of Writing Studies Professor Ezra Sacks and Animation Department Director, and Academy Award Winner, Professor John Canemaker.
While the winners know they will each receive an award, their placement - Gold, Silver, or Bronze - will not be revealed until the June 13 ceremony. Gold Medal winners receive cash grants of $5,000, Silver Medal winners receive $3,000, and Bronze Medal winners receive $2,000.