Support Group for film addicts
As a film student, I have come to realise that attending lessons is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to absorbing knowledge about the film world. Our course instructors has always emphasised the importance of exploring beyond the curriculum and doing independent learning. It is only through being diligent and proactive in seeking out additional resources that we can truly expand our horizons and become well-rounded filmmakers. With this mindset, I have embraced the idea of independent learning and am constantly seeking out opportunities to broaden my understanding of cinema, from pushing myself to analyse classic films, as well as studying contemporary trends in the industry. In this way, I believe that I can continue to develop my craft and become a more skilled and knowledgeable filmmaker that can completable with the markets.
As a dedicated film enthusiast, I have found that pursuing my passion for cinema can sometimes be a solitary pursuit. While I have developed a deep love for the art form and an insatiable desire to learn more about it, friends and families around me may not share the same level of enthusiasm for film. This can make it difficult to find others with whom I can discuss and analyse movies, or to share my excitement for new cinematic discoveries.
However, I have never let the isolation discourage me from continuing to learn and grow as a filmmaker. Instead, I have cultivated a set of habits and practices that help me to stay engaged with the film world, even when I am alone. For instance, I read extensively about film theory and criticism, both to expand my knowledge of the craft and to connect with others who share my passion. I also regularly watch movies from a wide variety of genres and countries, seeking out new and challenging works that push me to think differently about the art form.
While it can be difficult to pursue these kinds of activities without a community of fellow film enthusiasts to share them with, I have come to appreciate the value of solitude in the learning process. It is through these quiet moments of reflection and study that I am able to truly absorb and appreciate the nuances of film, and to develop my own voice and perspective as a filmmaker.
Joining the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts has allowed me to connect with a group of like-minded individuals who share my passion for cinema. The sense of community and camaraderie that I have found among my classmates has been a source of inspiration and motivation for me throughout my time at the school.
One of the most exciting developments that emerged from this newfound sense of community was the regular screening series that was organised by two of my classmates, Thom and Kingson. This initiative brought together film students from all different backgrounds, providing a space for us to come together and share our love for movies. The experience of watching films in a group setting was a revelation for me, as it allowed me to see films in a new light and to engage with my peers in a way that was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally rewarding.
As a result of this screening series and other similar events, I have developed close friendships with many of my classmates, and have found a supportive and welcoming community of film enthusiasts with whom I can share my thoughts, ideas, and experiences.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of our regular screening series is the element of surprise and discovery that it brings. We often use a random number generator to select which film we will watch, and this method has led us to explore a wide range of cinematic styles, genres, and eras. Thom's movie database is particularly impressive, featuring many of the most renowned and celebrated films in the history of cinema.
While it can be challenging at times to watch films that we may not be immediately drawn to, the experience of viewing them with our classmates makes it all worthwhile. I have found that watching films with others not only makes the experience more enjoyable, but also helps me to appreciate and understand films in new ways. Even films that I may have found slow or dull when watching alone can become engrossing when viewed with a group.
Another valuable aspect of our screening series is the post-film discussion that we hold. This is a time for us to share our thoughts, insights, and reactions to the film, and to learn from one another's perspectives. I have found these discussions to be incredibly enriching, as they have allowed me to see how different people can interpret and respond to the same film in vastly different ways. This has deepened my understanding of film language and storytelling techniques, and has helped me to become a more discerning and thoughtful content creator.
Overall, I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this group of passionate and knowledgeable film enthusiasts. Our regular screenings and discussions have become a cornerstone of my experience at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and have helped to make my journey as a film student both fulfilling and inspiring. I look forward to continuing to explore the rich and diverse world of cinema with my classmates, and to learning from their insights and perspectives along the way.
