April 7, 2026
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The Flyby Film Festival at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on March 30 began as a night to celebrate student filmmaking. It became a meaningful tribute to creativity, collaboration, and the lasting impact of one student.
Hosted as a joint effort between Unreel Media, The Avion, and Touch-N-Go Productions, this year’s festival was dedicated to the memory of David Guerra, an early member of Unreel whose passion for storytelling helped shape the campus film community and beyond.
“This year has been a meaningful one for our campus community,” said Clayton Laughery, producer of Unreel Media, during opening remarks. “In many ways, this festival reflects that same passionate spirit that was the driving force behind David’s creativity.”
Held in the Student Union, the event brought together student filmmakers, friends, and faculty. Members of Guerra’s family also attended for an evening of short films, trailers, and collaborative projects. Despite a sense of loss, the atmosphere remained joyful.
“Despite everything, this is our chance to celebrate each other,” Laughery said. “That’s the best part of this festival.”
Throughout the night, student films ranged from comedic sketches to deeply personal pieces, showcasing technical skill and a willingness to experiment. Many projects reflected the collaborative spirit Laughery described, one that has grown since Unreel Media’s founding.
“Even at a university centered around aerospace and aviation… there should still be a place for filmmakers,” Laughery said. “A place to tell their wildest stories.”
That vision was evident in the diversity of work presented. Some films leaned into humor and absurdity, drawing laughter from the audience, while others explored introspective themes. Regardless of tone, each piece carried intention and community.
Midway through the event, an unexpected interruption prompted attendees to evacuate the building due to an alleged grease fire. The unexpected pause did little to dampen the evening. Once cleared, the audience returned, and the festival resumed with the same energy, reinforcing the shared enthusiasm that defined the night.
A standout moment was Wish I Was a Bird, directed by Antonio Clark. The film, both whimsical and reminiscent of Pixar's charm, blended humor and imagination. It resonated with the audience, earning laughter and recognition as one of the night’s top films.
Introducing the next chapter of the evening, the festival presented a new honor: the Inspiration Award, created in memory of Guerra. This award recognized individuals who embody the same creativity and collaborative spirit he brought to the organization, ensuring his legacy continues within the community he helped build.
By the end of the night, the purpose of the festival felt clear. It wasn’t just about showcasing films; it was about honoring the people behind them and the big picture we don’t always see.
“In the end, we celebrate the stories we tell, the risks we take, and the moments that remind us why we create,” Laughery said. “But more importantly, we remember the people who helped us along the way. Friends like David.”
Through laughter, reflection, and shared creativity, the Flyby Film Festival proved that even in loss, storytelling has the power to bring people together and keep a legacy alive.
