By Brayden Walter
Brwalter@lc.edu
Filmmaking is a staple of human creativity, allowing us to capture human emotions, stories, and history across cultures and generations. Each year, dozens of films are dropped into the laps of the masses to consume, but isn’t it only fair to celebrate some of the smaller passion projects that don’t get to grace the silver screen? Luckily for those short films, the Always Late TV Awards stepped in to save the day!
The Always Late TV Awards returned for their third year on the college campus March 22–23, hosting an adventurous film festival at Lewis and Clark Community College’s Hatheway Hall. Showing large variety of short films, providing comedic improv, and presenting some of the cast and crew with awards for their talent and effort poured into their individual works.
Established to support independent filmmakers, the festival unites a vibrant mix of storytellers, film buffs, and professionals from the industry. Over the past two years, submissions have skyrocketed by 304%, with 202 entries from 33 nations this year. The event caters not only to creators but also to movie fans and comedy lovers. Featuring an exceptional combination of film screenings, improv performances, and glamorous events, the Always Late TV Awards stand out as a premier celebration of creativity and dedication.
John Lehr, known for his work in “Friends,” “Jessie,” and “Geico Caveman,” and Carolina Clayton, known for her modeling and improv comic work, co-hosted the event together, bringing a hilarious and uniquely exciting charm to the festival and its various activities.
Some highlights of the weekend included a diverse lineup of independent films from local and global filmmakers, including shorts, features, documentaries, and music videos; two improv shows; a red carpet; and an awards ceremony celebrating the best in independent cinema.
A few feature films to check out:
- “Breasts Not Required:” A groundbreaking documentary by Seth Thompson and Hannah Sullivan exploring personal stories of eight women post-mastectomy, challenging societal norms and shedding light on systemic health issues.
- “Luki & the Lights:” An animated story of resilience by Toby Cochran following a robot navigating life with an ALS diagnosis, highlighting the power of perseverance and hope. The filmmakers behind this heartwarming tale bring a wealth of experience, having worked on “Ratatouille,” “Monsters University,” “Cars,” “Shrek,” and “Antz.”
- “Lemonade Battle:” Directed by 13-year-old Zahra Sophia Layland, this charming comedy follows a group of ambitious young entrepreneurs who take pride in their fresh-squeezed lemonade and meticulously decorated stand. When a competitor claims their prime location, the kids devise a clever plan for revenge. This delightful film showcases youthful ambition and creativity.
- “Dark at the Top of the Stairs:” Directed by Alton, Illinois locals Wyatt Weed and Gayle Gallagher, this thrilling feature follows a man who, after the death of his twin brother, returns to the family house he has inherited. There, he confronts his past, his personal demons, and a ghost. Nominated for multiple awards including Best Feature Film, this local production is in the running for the festival’s biggest prize for feature filmmakers.
To view the winners of the 2025 Always Late TV Awards, visit www.alwayslatetv.com/award-history.
