Two films with WKU connections are being shown at Louisville’s International Festival of Film on Oct. 9 to 11.

One film, “Double,” was directed by WKU graduate Barry Rowen, who graduated in spring 2014 with a B.A. in film studies.

 “Double” is about a college student adjusting to his new life, while being accused of not being new at all.

Themes of the film include personal identity and the imitation of others. The idea for the film was inspired by Rowen’s personal life, who transferred back-and-forth between WKU and Northern Kentucky University as he was trying to figure out his academic degree.

Rowen, who originally pursued an art degree, said the aspect of storytelling is a big reason he switched to film.

“That’s really what I was drawn to,” Rowen said.

Ted Hovet, professor of English and film studies, had Rowen in several of his classes. He said he was happy the film was picked.

“It’s great for the entire WKU film program to see our students have this kind of success, as well as our faculty,” he said.

The second film, “Leave No Trace,” was directed and written by Travis Newton, assistant professor of film and broadcasting, and produced by Dawn Hall, associate professor of academic support. 

“Leave No Trace” is about a retiring chemistry professor who hopes to hike the Appalachian Trail, despite a last-minute physical indicating he is unfit to hike.

It was filmed in the summer of 2013.

The cast was made up of various professors, including Paul Bush, an associate professor of English, who died in December of a burst heart aneurism.

Newton said Bush was having heart problems prior to his death, but during production of the film his condition seemed fine. His death came suddenly.

“It was a surprise to everybody,” he said

Newton said he created the film because it’s something he likes to do.

“I want to make sure that I’m staying active and still creating some work,” he said. 

Newton said he was excited about his movie being showcased in the film festival.

“It’s great that it’s regional so I can actually attend and see how the audience reacts,” he said.