15th Annual Night at the Oscars Gives Student Filmmakers a Chance to Shine
Night at the Oscars will once again bring a little Hollywood glitz to Buffalo State University with a celebratory event on Sunday, March 12, from 8:00 to midnight in the Campbell Student Union Social Hall.
Conceived and organized by television and film arts (TFA) students who are enrolled in former TFA director and associate professor Jeffrey Hirschberg’s TFA 301: TV and Film Criticism course, the 15th annual Night at the Oscars includes a live viewing of the 95th annual Academy Awards ceremony on a big screen, a presentation of student film awards, and red-carpet interviews. The jazz band Mann Town will perform before the show and during commercial breaks, and catered refreshments will be served.
“We chose the black-and-white theme because it’s elegant and also easy and affordable for decorating and for attendees’ outfits—black, white, or a mixture of both,” said Ashley Matter, a first-year TFA major who is co-chairing Night at the Oscars with Madison “Scout” Chase and Karl Zielezinski. TFA planners will award a “best dressed” award to both a male and female guest.
“Doing this gives me a reason to connect with others who also want to watch the Oscars and try to make some future friends. It’s also a great learning experience for planning events and connecting with others to make an event a reality.”
—Ashley Matter, First-Year TFA Major and Night at the Oscars Co-chair
The annual event also recognizes the work of aspiring student filmmakers. More than 25 students submitted short films for consideration in the Pioneer Awards, which are presented for best director, best actor, best actress, best cinematography, and best editing. In addition, this year, two students will receive the award for best picture and best screenplay. The TFA Academy, composed of TFA faculty, alumni, and industry professionals, serves as judge.
Hirschberg noted that Night at the Oscars is completely student-driven, from booking the entertainment to ordering the refreshments. It’s a terrific way to connect with fellow film lovers.
“I wanted to get involved with Night at the Oscars because, as a commuter, I’m never on campus except to attend my classes,” Matter said. “Doing this gives me a reason to connect with others who also want to watch the Oscars and try to make some future friends. It’s also a great learning experience for planning events and connecting with others to make an event a reality.”
Chase agreed.
“Whether they’re taking on roles such as getting food, making posters, coming up with ideas, or setting up, everyone has put their best foot forward to make this night happen,” Chase said. “I’m so excited to see everyone and to see Night at the Oscars pulled together.”
In years past, only students were admitted free; other guests were charged $10. This year, free admission is extended to everyone.
“Night at the Oscars is always a lot of fun,” Hirschberg said. “We are happy to offer it to the community this year at no charge.”
For more information, please visit the TFA web page.
Updated March 14, 2023
Pioneer Award Winners 2023
Best Editor: Connor Greczyn, No Sleep Till
Best Cinematography: Nick Gerwitz, Siren
Best Actor: Steven Maiseke, Captivating Love
Best Actress: Sarah Waechter, The Bereaved
Best Screenplay: Samantha Greco, The Bereaved
Best Director: Angel Barber, Purge
Best Picture: The Bereaved
