Our film series finalists deserve a standing ovation

These 12 filmmakers – including our winner, Taylor Sharp – brought their real North Carolina memories to life in our curated collection of films showcasing diverse, beautiful and inspiring destinations across our state. Be sure to check out these short films (or watch them again!) to find inspiration for your next unforgettable trip to North Carolina.

‘Jacob’s First Mandolin’

A friendly wager on a family fishing trip to Emerald Isle years ago resulted in one boy’s dream come true. That boy, all grown up, turned his dream come true into a career.

Director

Taylor Sharp

‘A Homecoming’

In Rick Bryson’s childhood home, an old photograph of the last living elk in NC shaped his future – a future that included helping reintroduce elk to Cataloochee Valley.

Director

Rick Bryson

‘So Far’

1,175 miles make up the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in North Carolina. And in 2018, Jeff and Debra Rezeli found more than just stunning scenery on the life-altering trek.

Director

Bryan Rierson

‘Center City!’

For Trey Edwards, one weekend enjoying craft beer, local food and art in Charlotte left such a memorable first impression he ended up moving there.

Director

Trey Edwards

‘Next Generation’

A childhood vacation to the NC coast always stood out to Jonathan Applebaum as magical. Today, Jonathan returns with his family and watches a new generation fall in love with the same coast that shaped him years ago.

Director

Jonathan Applebaum

‘Seagrove’

For the visually impaired, art has its limitations – but pottery is a special art form where the sense of touch makes all the difference in the world.

Director

Josh Sliffe

‘In the Rearview’

As two siblings look back on a road trip with their father 20 years ago, they discover their memories have faded. But the feelings they share when returning to these mountains remain the same.

Director

Meagan Massa

‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’

Eternal Polk has watched so many of his daughter’s firsts take place in North Carolina, but a hiking trip to Stone Mountain is one he will never forget.

Director

Eternal Polk

‘The Road to North Carolina’

After a time of uncertainty in his life, Luke Gloeckner was looking for a new place to call home. Thanks to a cross-country road trip, he found a new playground in NC with its inspiring people, places and possibilities.

Director

Luke Gloeckner

‘Making Waves’

Areli Barrera and Leon Grodski Barrera arrived in Durham and turned a bicycle cart into three thriving cafes and an award-winning microroaster. At the heart of it all? Community.

Director

Pilar Timpane

‘Waverider’

Growing up, Bryan Harvey’s greatest joy was surfing on the Outer Banks. Today, he knows there’s only one thing that’s better: teaching his daughter that same passion.

Director

Bryan Harvey

‘Queen of Pisgah’

In her first pro bike race in Pisgah National Forest, Kaysee Armstrong is humbled by the terrain. Four years later and fierce with determination, Kaysee returns for redemption.

Director

Curren Sheldon

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