Full Sail University Teams Shine as Finalists for Coca-Cola Refreshing Films 2026

The Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program, known for spotlighting emerging filmmakers, has announced its finalists for the year 2026, and it's a remarkable achievement for Full Sail University. Out of three selected teams, two hail from this renowned institution, and they are set to compete for the highly coveted grand prize. This year's selection is a significant milestone, being the first time in nearly a decade that the same university has two teams advancing to this stage.

Celebrating Talented Filmmakers

Katie Pryor, the Coca-Cola Refreshing Films Program Manager, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Full Sail's teams. She stated, "We've been so impressed with the creativity and collaboration from the film crews, and we are confident this is only the beginning of very exciting careers for these filmmakers." Such praise highlights the institution's ability to nurture talent and creativity in the realm of filmmaking.

The finalist teams include a graduate team and an undergraduate team, both of which have put forth innovative projects that showcase their skills. The graduate team is led by Angel Quinapallo, a two-time Full Sail graduate, serving as Writer/Director. Alongside her is Kylie Shouse, a Film 2025 graduate, acting as Producer for their project, "Behind the Screens." This film takes audiences on a journey behind the cinematic curtain, encapsulating the magic that contributes to unforgettable movie experiences.

Meanwhile, the undergraduate team features Film students Brandon Bishop as Writer/Director and Christina Almuina as Producer. Their project, titled "What Makes Them Magic," explores how films resonate in our daily lives, instilling a sense of inspiration long after the credits roll.

Engaging the Audience Through Cinemark Fan Favorite

Coca-Cola Refreshing Films has partnered with Cinemark Theatres to encourage audience participation through an initiative named Cinemark Fan Favorite. This allows movie enthusiasts to engage with the finalist projects. From April 20 to May 10, 2026, audiences across the U.S. can vote daily for their favorite branded spot via cokeurl.com/Cinemark. The winner will enjoy nationwide distribution in Cinemark Theatres, providing a golden opportunity to showcase their work on the big screen.

Full Sail's education director for Visual Arts and Communication, Rick Ramsey, acknowledged Coca-Cola Refreshing Films for recognizing the talent within their student body. He reflected on the value of practical, project-oriented learning that provides students firsthand industry experience. This collaboration allows students and graduates to broaden their network, find visibility, and gain valuable connections in the film industry.

A Unique Learning Experience

The finalists were selected based on the merit of their submission scripts, after which they were given a budget to produce their branded films. Over a six-month period, each team will benefit from mentorship provided by seasoned professionals in the field. Technical partnerships with companies like RED, Nikon, and Company 3 grant access to advanced equipment, including RED V-RAPTOR® cameras and Nikon ZR Cinema Cameras, ensuring high-quality production values.

Both teams will also utilize Full Sail's on-campus virtual production studio, Studio V1, as one of their filming locations. In addition to technical support, marketing professionals will guide the teams in finalizing their branded spots, ensuring that both the artistic and commercial aspects of their projects are well-received.

Key representatives from Coca-Cola, AMC Theatres, and Cinemark have been engaged in supporting the filming processes. Furthermore, AMC has provided filmmakers with gift packages, including movie tickets and promotional materials, to foster creativity and recognize their hard work throughout the filmmaking journey.

The Grand Prize and Recognition

Beyond the fan engagement aspect, the Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program boasts a panel of industry experts known as the Red Ribbon Panel that will ultimately determine the Grand Prize winner and those awarded for Best Music Composition. The Grand Prize winner is set to receive nationwide theatrical distribution through exhibition partners like AMC Theatres and Cinemark, ensuring that their work lights up screens across the country.

About Full Sail University

Founded in 1979, Full Sail University has established itself as a leading institution for those pursuing careers in entertainment media and emerging technologies. With accolades such as being named a "Top Game Design School" by The Princeton Review in 2026 and ranking in MovieMaker magazine's list of "30 Best Film Schools in the U.S. and Canada" in 2025, Full Sail continues to pave the way for its students' success. Offering a diverse array of online and on-campus degree programs in fields like Art & Design, Business, Film & Television, and more, the university boasts over 100,000 graduates whose work has garnered numerous industry awards, including Oscars and Grammys.

About the Coca-Cola Refreshing Films Program

The Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program has been a unique platform for aspiring filmmakers at partnered educational institutions for 28 years. Its mission is to provide emerging talents with real-world opportunities to create captivating content for cinema while advancing their careers in the film industry. With partnerships extending to over 65 schools, the program remains the longest-running branded film initiative in the United States, a testament to its enduring impact on the film community.