Filmmaker Ani Acopian ‘12 recently took home the grand prize at the first ever GIPHY Film Fest, which celebrated micro-films that tell stories in 18 seconds or less. Chosen from over 900 submissions, Ani’s work, “Washed Up,” was filmed by drone in Reynisfjara, Iceland.
“I think it’s really cool that GIPHY [a database and search engine for GIFs] put on this event since it’s the first of its kind. It’s epic to be a representative,” said Ani. “Video doesn’t need to be long to get across an emotion, concept or story. My main goal is to make work that is eye-catching and different.”
“Washed Up” is not a one-off creation for Ani. She has produced short films for well-known brands, including Red Bull, Chipotle, Snapchat, Budweiser, Samsung, and W Hotels.
“My favorite part about working in the creative industry is that it feels like there are no boundaries,” said Ani. “I don’t have to stick to a linear career path and I’m in control of my own destiny. I work hard and set goals, while not being held down by traditional roles.”
A lifer at Moravian Academy, Ani recounted photography and video classes throughout high school with Upper School teacher Mrs. Lindsay Woodruff, whom she considers to be one of her earliest mentors and supporters.