Ascot students have worked with a production company to learn about the film industry and to create a great short film about their local library. Eleven young students were supported to make the film by Cube Video, which held two sessions last month.
The Durning Library Trust funded the project, which was organised in partnership with the Royal Borough library service. The project was opened up for 11 to 14 year olds in the Ascot area.
A ‘premiere night’ event was held at Ascot Library on World Book Day, Thursday 7 March. At the event, the students, their family and friends all gathered in attendance to watch the completed film for the first time, as well as a behind the scenes video. In a nod to the Academy Awards, everyone was given an ‘Oscar’ for their contributions, walked up the ‘red carpet’ and gave speeches. Drinks and snacks were served for those in attendance.
The film has now been released on Library service YouTube channel and is available for the public to watch here.
Councillor Joshua Reynolds, Cabinet member for communities and leisure, said: “This has been a fantastic project, allowing local students to gain some real experience of the film industry with qualified professionals. Like everyone, I’m so impressed with the quality of the film they have created, which shows off their imagination, talent and our fantastic library service.
The film and television industry is a significant sector for the Royal Borough, and this project was a great opportunity for our future filmmakers to get involved and build their skills.
“I’d like to thank the Durning Library Trust, which funded this project for the students. It wouldn’t have been possible without them. I’d also like to thank Cube Video who have led the sessions and project, alongside our brilliant library staff.”
The first planning session was hosted by Cube Video. In this session, the students learnt all about different roles within the film and TV industry. This involved learning about different camera angles, lighting, and scripting. They then spent time planning the film they would make, and everyone brought an idea to the table.
In the second session, the students reconvened for a full day of filming. During this time, they each had the opportunity to be in front of the camera and behind it. They each took turns as directors, on lighting and on sound and acting.
Geoffrey Donovan, Chairman of the Durning Library Trust, said: “We’re proud to have supported this initiative, which saw our local students having a chance to make a film. The Ascot Durning Library is a fantastic local asset and it’s great to see young people being engaged in the community and working with the library service.”
The students involved in the project were: Madison Goodwin, Noah Goodwin, Eloise Williams, Alice Webster, Rebecca Sloan, Natalie Gilbert, Louis Allam, Maxsea Young, Charlotte Burks, Rupert Turnbull and Mozes Fernandez.