The Master’s University will be well-represented during the International Christian Film Festival in Orlando, Florida, which is running now through May 4.

TMU’s “The Descent,” a full-length feature film worked on by nearly 60 students from the University, was one of 10 films nominated for best picture.

TMU professor Jefferson Henson is in the running for best cinematography, and Matt Green, the director of TMU’s Cinema & Digital Arts program, was nominated for best screenplay and best director.

“The Descent,” a dramatic thriller set during the events of Revelation 9, also allowed TMU students to work alongside industry professionals. Two such professionals received nominations from the festival — Anthony Tyler Quinn (best screenplay with Green) and Dan Sachoff (Best Supporting Actor).

Green said recently that general oversight is given during filming by professors, but “the students are really the ones who are the boots on the ground,” helping lead the camera department, overseeing the production design, and building the costume for the movie’s “creature.” The movie also had three student producers: Miranda Watson, Mark Hoffman, and Isaac Busenitz. Busenitz also completed every visual effects shot for the film.

As for the Best Picture nomination, Green said, “It’s an honor and a significant step forward for our department to have our film nominated alongside some really big budgeted features.”

You can learn more about TMU’s Cinema & Digital Arts program at masters.edu/cda.