Righetti High School held its 26th annual film festival featuring more than 20 short films made students in grades nine-12 on May 9.

Students and friends enjoyed the films shown on the gym stage, celebrating all the hard work students put in this year.

Students who helped set up were treated to pizza courtesy of LCAP (Local Control Accountability Plan, and performed karaoke before attendees arrived.

“Every year we showcase all the excellent work created by students,” said Jacob Gustafson, media arts teacher. “I’m so proud of them and the outstanding effort they put into their films.

“We had comedies, horror, documentaries and dramas. It was a great blend of genres and artistic voices.

“Some of the films showcased have already been selected for film festivals including the upcoming Central Coast Film Society Student Showcase. It was a great night for students and a great night for the future of film.”

Students said they found the experience, which has become a school tradition, engaging.

“This is my first film festival, and it exceeded my expectations. The films were better than I thought they would be, and I had lots of fun. I am glad I went,” said freshman Jayden Mendoza.

“It’s an event worth your time where you get to see what other people have been working on and possibly meet people with the same interests as you,’’ said Asher Dedek, an 11 grader.

“There was a lot of variety in the films,” said Samuel Cornejo, a senior. “It was nice seeing all the different ideas and how they executed their ideas on screen.

“This was my fourth and last film festival, and I’m sad that it’s over, but I will be continuing my work at Allan Hancock College and hope to have work in their film festival.’’