We are so excited to share that Pink Sync, our original Appalachian sci-fi short film, placed second in Film Fest Knox’s Elev8or Pitch. More than 20 teams entered the competition, each submitting an eight-minute proof-of-concept short film and a one-minute feature pitch. The top eight finalists were selected by an independent committee and invited to participate in a public screening, a live pitch session, and a Q&A with a jury of industry professionals who award three top prizes.
By earning second place, Pink Sync receives a cash prize, mentorship from industry leaders and continued access to the festival’s development network, which positions the project for its next stage of growth as we develop the feature film.
A Story Born in the Smokies
Writer and director Eli Heaton has been visiting the synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains since he was a kid. The moment thousands of fireflies flash in unison has always held a sense of magic. That spark became the foundation of Pink Sync.
The film follows Lizzy, a young woman running her mom’s campground while carrying the emotional weight of her mom’s depression. When alien fireflies begin to body-snatch guests, Lizzy discovers she might be able to use them to her advantage. The story is grounded, character-driven, and deeply Appalachian, but it also builds toward cinematic sci-fi spectacle. This blend is at the heart of what makes Pink Sync so unique.
An Appalachian Sci-Fi Setting
We couldn’t have asked for a better home for this film than Little Arrow Outdoor Resort. The entire production was filmed on-site, and the location gave us everything we needed to bring the world of Pink Sync to life. The campground atmosphere, the wooded trails, the cabins, and the natural beauty of Townsend created a visual identity that feels authentic, immersive, and unmistakably Appalachian. Their hospitality and support went above and beyond, and the film is stronger because of it.
We’re also grateful to Guys With Eats for keeping our crew fueled throughout production and to The Dancing Bean for keeping everyone caffeinated during long nights on set. Their support carried us through two very long days of filming.
Built by the Big Slate Team With Incredible Creative Partners
Pink Sync was shaped by the full force of Big Slate Media and an amazing network of collaborators. Our in-house video production crew and VFX department laid the foundation for the film, and we were supported by some talented freelancers who brought additional expertise and energy to the set.
We are also grateful for the support of Horizon Grip and Lighting, RED Digital Cinema, and Aperture Impact. Their support gave us the tools and technical resources needed to elevate the look of the film and expand what was possible for us.
Our VFX department played a major role in defining the visual identity of Pink Sync. From the glowing fireflies to the otherworldly comet that starts it all, the film relied heavily on visual effects to bring its supernatural elements to life. Having VFX integrated directly into our workflow allowed the team to experiment, iterate, and craft imagery that feels cinematic and grounded in our region.
Film Fest Knox and What Comes Next
Film Fest Knox provided a meaningful opportunity for Pink Sync to reach new audiences and industry eyes. Launched in 2023, the festival has quickly become a cornerstone of the Knoxville arts community. It’s held every fall in downtown Knoxville, with screenings hosted at the Regal Riviera. In addition to three full days of film programming, Film Fest Knox features regional and local filmmaking competitions, workshops, and social events that bring together filmmakers, audiences, and emerging talent from across the Southeast.
The Elev8or Pitch is one of the festival’s anchor events. It pushed our team creatively and helped us articulate the heart of the film with even more clarity. The lineup this year was incredibly strong, and it was an honor to be included among such talented filmmakers. Third place went to Matt Webb and his film Used To Be, while Callie Bacon’s Sleeping Princess took home first place.
Placing second in this competition was an incredible honor and marks an exciting step forward for Pink Sync. As part of this recognition, our team will receive mentorship and participate in the festival’s development network in the coming months, giving us valuable guidance as we move toward feature development. With our team, our partners, and the momentum created at Film Fest Knox, we are energized and ready for what comes next!
Pink Sync Crew
- Written & Directed By: Eli Heaton
- Story By: Eli Heaton & Jess Gutman
- Executive Producer: Jonathan Halley
- Producer: Jessica Burgin
- 1st Assistant Director: Bridget Nagdeman
- Script Supervisor: Leigh Shields
- Production Assistant: Neylan “Nemo” Bright
- Director of Photography: Phillip Bootsma
- 1st AC: Mack Taylor
- 2nd AC/Drone Op: Mathew Wilson
- Art Director: Jess Gutman
- Art Assistant: Aubrey Miller
- Gaffer: Shane Hunter
- Key Grip: Caitlin Roan
- Grip/ Swing: Josh Mangers
- Production Sound Mixer: Kyle Heverly
- Editor/Colorist: Mack Taylor
- VFX: Alan Collins
- Original Score: Eli Heaton and William Wright
- Sound Design/Mix: William Wright
- Cast: Birdy, Amanda Medlin, Greg Congleton, Mason Mecartea, Danny Davis & Xavier Truman
- Special Thanks To: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, Guys with Eats, The Dancing Bean, Horizon Grip and Lighting, Mike and Linda Halley, Annie, Oliver, and Elijah Raby, Landon Underwood, John Thomas Dickson& Nancy Nagdeman