ASPIRING young Scorceses and Ford-Coppolas living in Hobsons Bay are being given the chance to try their hand at film directing at a new series of workshops.
The Hobsons Bay Short Film project, which got under way last week, will see 12 young locals take a crash course on all aspects of film craft.
The program is run in conjunction with Open Channel, and Marina Popovich from Hobsons Bay Youth Services said it was a first for Hobsons Bay.
“The response was fantastic,” she said. “The young people were really excited about it, even before the sessions started.
“I think that some of them were surprised about the level of detail in the sessions.
“Open Channel is putting a lot of effort into making sure the participants know the basic principles of all aspects of developing a film, so they really go into great depth.
“It’s a genuine opportunity for the young people to develop some real skills.”
Classes are open to local high school students from years seven to 12, and focus on digital technology, story boarding, editing, directing, filming and various technical aspects of film production over four sessions.
Students will end up with an edited short film shot on digital video, which they have created from scratch, taking complete control of the creative process for the entire project.
“The young people are involved in every aspect of film making. The films will be showcased in April as part of the celebrations for Youth Week,” Ms Popovich said.
She said many of the participants wouldn’t have the chance to do a film production or similar course.
“It is quite expensive and it can be hard to find opportunities for courses like this for young people,” she said.
The Hobsons Bay Short Film Project will screen on Saturday, 21 April, at the Altona Theatre, Civic Parade, Altona. For more information call Hobsons Bay Youth Services on 9932 3000.
