Filmmaker Kira Powell has 'Best Eyes' and Best Short Film

ALUMNI VISITS ARE A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO SEE WHERE LIFE MIGHT TAKE THEM, and to remind alumni how far they have come since graduation.

Most recently, Kira Powell (C’06) paid a visit to the School and College campuses, sharing her journey in filmmaking with Principia students.  

After graduating from Principia College, Powell moved to Los Angeles and discovered her love for acting. She was featured in many award-winning commercials and indie films, but after five years, Powell decided she wanted to share her own story. 

Powell started writing Caught in the Mix, a one-woman show reflecting on her childhood—growing up half Black, half Ecuadorian in a majority White community. She was inspired to apply to the American Film Institute (AFI) to expand her one-woman show into a thesis film, Best Eyes. 

“When I went [to AFI], I was able to write and develop my short film, Best Eyes. Now I can use it as proof of concept for a feature,” Powell explained.

As a student, Powell pursued myriad opportunities through classes and clubs. She was involved in Principia Internet Radio and the newscasting team, developing experience in various aspects of media. “There was a lot of diversity here, in terms of what I could learn. That helped me transition into life,” said Powell. 

Powell emphasized how Principia helped her develop her value system. “The way we treat people and the way we want to be treated and respected ... you do that by being your authentic self.” 

College junior Alex Kibbe was moved by her career journey. “Seeing Kira pursue her passion was inspiring. It was a good reminder that your voice has value,” she said.

Best Eyes has already earned notable accolades, including: 

 

57th NAACP Image Awards Nominee–Outstanding Short Form (Live Action) 

2025 AAFCA/LEJA Afro-Latino Short Film Competition–1st Place 

2024 DGA Student Film Awards–Jury Award for Best African American Student Filmmaker 

 

“To be your authentic self, you need to feel safe, and I always felt safe here at Principia,” Powell reflected. “It was a peaceful and nurturing environment for me, and I could be my full self and not be afraid. I’ve carried these things with me throughout my life.”