Unleashing Creativity: A Cinematic Journey with My Students
Recently, my students and I embarked on an extraordinary adventure that not only took us out of the conventional classroom setting but also provided us with an invaluable opportunity to dive headfirst into the world of professional film production. The experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring, as we collaborated with a local production company to bring to life a heartwarming Christmas film titled "The Envelope."
Greg studies his lines one last time before “action”.
Our film centered around a young man's quest to gather funds for a concert with friends, only to stumble upon an envelope on the street containing the exact amount he needed. Instead of seizing the golden opportunity, he chose to locate its rightful owner, a single mother. In a surprising twist of events, he even selflessly handed over his hard-earned savings to ensure the mother and her daughter had a special Christmas.
The journey began with our students taking half a day off from school, transforming the routine into a thrilling field trip to the heart of our local community. Not only did this venture grant us visibility among local business owners, but it also opened doors for collaboration with unexpected partners, including the city police department.
Being on a professional film set was an eye-opener for both myself and my students. Our roles expanded beyond observers, as students took charge of crucial positions such as camera operation, audio handling with top-notch equipment, and script supervision ensuring continuity. The thrill of using cinema-grade cameras and Tentacle audio gear with timecode sync was not just a lesson in film production but a revelation of untapped potential within each student.
Eric makes sure the slate is visible for both cameras.
One of the most exhilarating moments was our collaboration with the city police department, who graciously allowed us to film a pivotal scene in their lobby. This unexpected partnership not only added authenticity to our project but also showcased the power of community collaboration.
Beyond the technical skills acquired, this experience injected a renewed sense of purpose into my teaching. Witnessing the dedication and creativity of my students in a real-world setting reinforced the importance of hands-on learning. Furthermore, our collaboration with local industry professionals and advisory committee members solidified relationships that will undoubtedly open doors for future projects and opportunities.
"The Envelope" wasn't just a film; it was a transformative journey that bridged the gap between the classroom and the professional film industry. As an educator, the experience reminded me of the magic that happens when students are given the chance to unleash their creativity in a real-world context. It's not just about making movies; it's about igniting passion, building connections, and sparking a sense of purpose that will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts and minds of my students for years to come.
A great crew of kids from our Blue Devil Productions class.
Meet the Author, NAME
Josh Dempsey is the video and film teacher at Marietta High School in Marietta, Georgia. Check out his student work at BlueDevilNews.com or on Instagram at BDN_Marietta.
Adam, your resident IB film teacher, wants to help your students walk the talk. How understanding the Big 4 (mise-en-scene, editing, cinematography, and sound design) can transform student analysis and filmmaking.