Every year, New Media produces hundreds of projects, but many students outside the program don’t get the chance to see them.
The prompt for this project – “Make the best project you’ve ever created” – is intentionally open-ended, encouraging students to apply everything they’ve learned throughout their time in the program.
“This year is unique because we have four seniors who have taken New Media all 8 semesters and then two more that have taken it 7… so that’s about 35-40 projects leading up to their final project and what will be seen at Best of New Media,” New Media teacher Mr. Steve Douglass said. “This senior class is deeply talented and dedicated. They all got into their choice, stretch, or best fit schools to continue pursuing their love for media.”
Each student approaches their final projects in a unique manner, resulting in a diverse collection of 2-10 minute films. These films cover a variety of themes, techniques, and creative expressions. The range of techniques will showcase each student’s creativity while also providing audiences with a rich and entertaining experience. The final presentations are expected to be engaging and showcase the students’ unique viewpoints and abilities.
In addition to the final projects, the short film, “What You Don’t Know About The Bottom of the Bottle” – directed by Ryder Gamrath from New Media’s New York City trip – will screen from the All-American High School Film Fest three day film challenge which is the #1 student film fest in the world.
Also screening is the 7-day challenge “Mixed Messages” directed by Jillian Duer that was submitted to the Midwest Media Educators Assessment.
One unique aspect of the event is the opportunity to hear from the producers afterwards. During this part of the night, the students talk through their creative process giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at how their work came to life. This gives the audience a better understanding and respect for the enormous amount of work necessary to create something worthy of exhibiting to an audience in the RMA.
This involvement not only enhances the audience’s experience, but also builds a sense of connection and appreciation for the creators’ dedication and artistic journey.
Eight semester New Media student Milana Yanev said, “People should come and see BONM because it showcases some of the incredible work the new media students do throughout the year and allows an insight into different styles, techniques and ideas that young filmmakers come up with.”
Best of New Media has been a tradition at LFHS for over 50 years and is open to the entire school community. It starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 31st and usually runs until about 9:30 p.m. because there’s so much great work to see and celebrate.
