Young filmmaker Frankie is a film student with Sparks Film School Dorking & Leatherhead
We sat down with Frankie to find out about her experiences as a young filmmaker and Sparks Film School student.
Frankie, on set, shooting a scene with fellow film students
What was your first day at Sparks Film School like? Tell us about your first day joining Sparks as a young filmmaker…
When I first joined Sparks Film School, I was very nervous at first because I didn’t know anyone, and going to a new place I had never been to before. But it was actually really easy to integrate into the lessons, as the teachers were very welcoming, as were the other students. I was able to find my people and my tribe really easily.
What first interested you about filmmaking?
I’m really into shows like Star Trek and Ghostbusters, and I was recently reading I Am Spock by Leonard Nimoy. As he recounts his experiences behind the scenes and making movies, it really made me want to experience that, connecting with other like-minded people and being on a film set. It inspired me to try my first class at Sparks.
Are you interested in making sci-fi films in a future career?
Although I do like science fiction, it’s the connections between the characters that really draw me to it, like the connection between a ship’s crew, rather than the fantastical elements. There is a comedy show called Second City Television from the 70s, is something I’m inspired by, as it’s a bunch of comedy skits focused on people’s relationships, and I really enjoyed it. I’d like to make something like that one day.
How has your filmmaking has developed over your time with Sparks Film School?
Compared to when I started, I have learnt and developed so much, especially with my speaking skills and confidence. As it’s a creative space at Sparks, you have to share your ideas with other people and listen to others. Because of that, I have been able to develop my listening and speaking skills when sharing ideas and working with others.
I have also learnt a lot about the film industry, including small things like the Rule of Thirds (which has helped me with my photography GCSE). I now know so much about different job roles in the industry. Joining Sparks has really expanded my understanding of the industry and what I might be interested in as a possible career.
What has been your favourite Sparks Film School production you have worked on?
Quite recently, we made a film about an apocalypse involving a girl who was outcast into the world and connects with another outcast. It was originally my idea, so I found it really rewarding to explore it, share it with others, hear their opinions and feedback, and bring my vision to life as a team.
Last year, we also made a film where two characters make their town believe a miracle has happened. I found this a really fun film to make because it was a comedy, and I got to work with some of the other groups.
We involved the younger group in the film, which I enjoyed, as I learnt how to integrate others into the filmmaking process. I also enjoyed developing the storyline with new people. They were really happy to be involved, and we all enjoyed supporting each other’s films.
We heard that you also recently helped the younger group as part of your Duke of Edinburgh Award?
I used to be part of the younger group before moving up an age group, but now I get to help out in sessions as part of my Duke of Edinburgh Award. It’s been really great, as I get to teach the younger group and then take those skills into my own group when we make our film. I really enjoy it and it contributes to the Award too.
Do you have any advice for other young filmmakers interested in Sparks Film School?
I’d say that when you join, you might feel nervous and shy, but something my mum always says is: “You can always come up with ideas by yourself, but the way to improve them is to share them with others.”
This is a key part of being part of Sparks Film School, and for those who join, it can really help improve your confidence.
Find out more…
Frankie attends the Sparks Film School weekly filmmaking classes at Sparks Film School Dorking and Leatherhead.
Sparks Film Schools offer weekly filmmaking classes for young filmmakers aged 5-18 at a range of venues across the UK.
If you’d like to take part, you can find your nearest Sparks Film School here >>
