“These kids are not only using the higher-definition cameras, they are using complex cameras, dollies and steadicams,” said Gabour, Grammy-nominated director Jim Gabour, who directs the newly launched digital filmmaking program at Loyola, citing Loyola’s top-flight professional studios and equipment available for student use. “I’m expecting to see some really outrageous stuff coming from them.”

Students in Loyola’s newly launched digital filmmaking program will air 25 films they have created. The only degree of its kind in the region, the new digital filmmaking major at Loyola targets students who wish to learn all aspects of the film business. Six years in the making, the Bachelor of Fine Arts in digital filmmaking at Loyola, one of the year’s most popular majors among incoming students, and launched this semester with official accreditation and nearly double the expected enrollment.

According to Gabour, Loyola’s film program is designed to ensure long-term success by familiarizing students with all aspects of the film business, from digital filmmaking and screenwriting to acting and directing. In collaboration with local craft unions, Loyola is developing courses that cover all of the positions needed on a professional crew, including gaffer, grip, camera, lighting and art production. Students work on cutting-edge equipment, including 10 brand new, state-of-the-art digital filmmaking cameras from Canon. The film program is one of a handful in the country that includes more than minimal business coursework and promises hands-on experience on current film projects.

The event runs from 1 to 4 p.m. in the state-of-the-art Nunemaker Auditorium, located in Loyola’s newly renovated Monroe Hall on Loyola’s main campus, 6363 St. Charles Ave. The event is free and open to the public.