New documentary film spearheaded by Pavone “storms” streaming services

A Rising Storm, a new 30-minute documentary for Pavone client Harrisburg University of Science and Technology that exposes how it became a dominant force in collegiate esports in only two years, will be available via worldwide streaming on Amazon video, Apple TV and Google Play after premiering at PAX Online’s 2020 convention September 17.

The intriguing, behind-the-scenes story has already racked up international recognition at film festivals including PopCon International in Indianapolis, Seoul Webfest in South Korea and India’s Pune Short Film Festival.

Pavone conceived the documentary to illustrate the university’s ambitious efforts for its esports program to become a major player in the billion-dollar industry of esports. The agency developed the storyline and coordinated with Emmy Award-winning, Harrisburg-based production company Cowboy Bear Ninja and director Adrian Selkowitz.

“This documentary captures the grit, teamwork, and character it takes to field a national championship esports team,” said Harrisburg University Director of Esports Chad Smeltz. “Everyone involved in the team’s growth knows how hard we’ve worked to build an amazing culture, and we’re thrilled the rest of the world will get to witness that now, too.”

Sam Renner, creative lead for Pavone on A Rising Storm, said, “It’s always exciting as an agency to work in innovative formats, to watch something go from an idea to working with international film festivals, and to see a local brand resonate on an international level. Technology and innovation have leveled the playing field in so many ways, and nowhere is this more true than in higher education and now esports. Harrisburg University is clearly blazing trails in both areas, and Pavone’s ability to build and push that story, coming from our focus on innovation, created the perfect partnership and opportunity.”