Orlando, Fla. - Jan 08, 2026 - Coronado Beach Productions, an Orlando-based independent film company with 40 years of film production experience, has announced that its short film “Starstruck” will make its public debut later this month after being accepted into the 20th annual Central Florida Film Festival. This joint project, in association with Carpenter Productions, was written and directed by Les Carpenter and created in the “Capraesque” style of filmmaking.
“‘Starstruck’ being accepted into the Central Florida Film Festival is a huge milestone that wouldn't have been possible without the tireless dedication of our amazing team during filming in Hollywood, California,” said George Ellis, MD, president of Coronado Beach Productions and producer of the film. “We are especially grateful for their creative support and their belief in our vision of creating a ‘feel good’ movie. This award belongs to all of us.”
This announcement is the latest of several accolades Coronado Beach Productions has received. The company’s recent short film “The Eden Trials,” in association with Parallel Lives Pictures and written by filmmaker Stephanie Kirves, has earned five awards to date, including most recently at the New York Movie Awards and the Tampa Bay Underground Film Festival. “The Eden Trials” will also be shown at the Central Florida Film Festival.
“Starstruck” was filmed in Hollywood, California — including on Mt. Lee, home of the iconic Hollywood sign. Les Carpenter served as the film’s writing director, and Dan Stilling served as its photography director. The film centers on a young, struggling actress at a crossroads in her career who finds inspiration from a passing stranger.
The film stars Danielle Hope, Sam Clark, and Ron Rogge. Clark has been nominated for several awards while starring in the hit Australian TV show “Neighbours,” and Rogge has starred in multiple critically acclaimed shows, including “Stranger Things” and “The Man in the High Castle.”
The 20th annual Central Florida Film Festival takes place from January 23rd through 25th, 2026, at Epic Theatres in Mount Dora, Florida. The date and showing time for “Starstruck” has not yet been announced. Tickets for the event will go on sale soon.
For media inquiries or requests for more information on Starstruck, Coronado Beach Productions, or George Ellis, MD, please contact Michael Knauff, Publicist at Otter PR, at michael.knauff@otterpr.com.
About George F. Ellis, MD.
George Ellis, Founder of Coronado Beach Productions, is an American Physician and Urologic Surgeon who is also a writer and filmmaker. He has worked with hospitals and clinics on making movies on surgical procedures and promotional films. His work now focuses on making movies for the general public and showcasing them at various film festivals worldwide. Ellis has been featured in War of Films and many other film festivals, having received numerous awards for the work he and his collaborators have created.
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