OUR STORY

Welcome to the Alive Film Challenge. We are Connor and Josh, two filmmakers whose lives were once overshadowed by the struggles of mental health and addiction. After years of battling our own demons, we found strength and purpose through recovery and our shared passion for filmmaking. Now sober, we wanted to create a space where others facing similar challenges could come together, share their stories, and find solace through creative expression.

The Alive Film Challenge is more than just a film competition—it's a community built on empathy, support, and the transformative power of storytelling. We believe every story matters and that through the art of film, individuals can navigate their struggles and emerge stronger. Whether you're a filmmaker, a creative, or someone on a journey of recovery, your story can inspire and uplift others. Join us, share your story, and be part of a movement that turns pain into purpose and struggles into strength. Together, we are alive.

  • CONNOR NELSON || FOUNDER

    Connor is a professional cinematographer in Los Angeles, California. He has worked with my clients such as Forbes, Bloomberg, United, Jockey, and many more. His life wasn’t always like this though. Connor’s journey began on the slopes of Winter Park, Colorado. where he carved out a career as an elite freeskier sponsored by Atomic Skis, Giro, and Winter Park Resort. At 18, Connor's life was changed by the tragic loss of his older brother in a freak mountaineering accident. The loss of his best friend and role model led him down years of depression and darkness that landed him in an inpatient rehab in 2018. After rehab, Connor picked up old hobbies, including photography and video work. Connor decided to leave the comfort of his home and enter film school and move to Chicago.

    Today, Connor shares his journey of healing and hope, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of creativity and the strength within us all. Connor is also the festival director of Winter Park Film Festival.

  • JOSH FINBOW || CO-FOUNDER

Alive Film Challenge

Alive Film Challenge is a filmmaking event focusing on mental health and addiction. It's open to participants worldwide, allowing filmmakers from any corner of the globe to take part. The primary requirement is that your film addresses themes related to mental health or addiction, whether through a documentary, narrative, or animated format. The top three films will be showcased at the prestigious Winter Park Film Festival. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to win a Camera rental package worth over $10,000. The winning film will also receive a $2,000 grant to further support their creative endeavors.

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Strength isn't ignoring your struggles, but facing them head-on, knowing each battle conquered is a step towards healing and resilience.

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- Connor Nelson