Full Sail Graduates Win Coca-Cola Film Competition, Highlighting University's Industry Ties
Event summary
- Full Sail University graduates Angel Quinapallo and Kylie Shouse won the 2026 Coca-Cola Refreshing Films Grand Prize.
- The winning film, 'Behind the Screens,' utilized Full Sail's Studio V1 virtual production capabilities and was filmed in partnership with Cinemark Theatres.
- The Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program is a 28-year-old initiative partnering with over 65 schools.
- The Cinemark Fan Favorite voting period runs from April 20 to May 10, with a chance to win instant rewards.
The big picture
The Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program provides a valuable platform for emerging filmmakers, and Full Sail University's consistent success within the competition underscores its position as a key training ground for the entertainment industry. This partnership highlights the increasing importance of branded content and the role of educational institutions in fostering the next generation of creative talent. The program's longevity and wide reach (65 schools) suggest a model for other brands seeking to engage with and cultivate future filmmakers.
What we're watching
- Brand Alignment
- The success of Full Sail graduates within the Coca-Cola program suggests a strong alignment between the university's curriculum and industry needs, which could attract further brand partnerships and enhance Full Sail's reputation.
- Virtual Production
- The utilization of virtual production technology in the winning film indicates a growing trend in filmmaking education and a potential competitive advantage for Full Sail in attracting students interested in cutting-edge techniques.
- Fan Engagement
- The Cinemark Fan Favorite voting initiative demonstrates a strategy to broaden audience engagement and leverage user-generated content, which could inform future marketing campaigns for both Coca-Cola and Full Sail.
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