SUU Filmmakers Win Top Prize at Zions Indie Film Fest

Southern Utah University filmmaking students Carson Blickenstaff and Madeline Bradley recently took home First Place in the inaugural Commercial Contest at the Zions Indie Film Fest (ZIFF). In addition to having their individual short films screened at the festival, the duo impressed judges with their creative commercial that captured the festival’s theme: “Gather. Celebrate. Connect.”

After submitting their thesis film Untainted Sky, the pair jumped at the chance to try something new. The commercial follows a man who attends ZIFF after seeing a social media post. As he watches, he imagines himself as the main character in a series of film genres—detective, cowboy, knight—before ultimately being inspired to make his own film.

"I Was Over The Moon"

The one-minute ad, featuring actor Kalen Fernandez, was a passion project for the longtime collaborators. Madeline shared that after a long year of thesis work, the chance to create something fresh was a welcome challenge. Carson recalled getting the call from ZIFF’s co-director Marshall Moore with the good news: “I was over the moon!”

Both students credit their success to the mentorship they’ve received at SUU. Madeline thanked professors Jahanara Saleh and Bill Kershisnik for helping her find her voice as a filmmaker. Carson recognized Troy Edler and Saleh for their influence on his cinematography and storytelling skills.

Their shared love for filmmaking goes beyond technical craft—each sees it as a powerful medium for connection. A press release from SUU stated, “Their win at ZIFF is a testament to the power of storytelling, perseverance, and the connections formed through SUU’s Filmmaking program.”

Planning For The Future

After graduation, Madeline plans to pitch a TV series and eventually pursue teaching, while Carson aims to work on film sets as a cinematographer or first assistant camera. Both emphasized the importance of networking and creating without waiting for permission.

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You can catch a glimpse of their thesis project Untainted Sky during SUU’s 2025 Senior BFA Exhibition at the Southern Utah Museum of Art, March 29–April 25. The full film screens April 19 from 4–10 p.m. at the SUU Auditorium during the inaugural BFA Thesis Film Screening. Learn more about SUU’s Filmmaking program at www.suu.edu/pva/art/film.