By Anastasia Bouhorikou
Participating in the “On the Road Diaries” short film project was an incredible and transformative experience for me. This journey offered a deep dive into the world of fiction filmmaking, from development all the way to post-production, providing a comprehensive and immersive learning experience.
Right from the start, we delved into the theoretical, practical, and technical aspects of filmmaking. Building on my previous experience, I gained a thorough understanding of the entire filmmaking process. We began with the development stage, where we generated and refined ideas for our short fiction film, laying a strong conceptual foundation. Pre-production involved detailed planning, scripting, and storyboarding, which ensured we had a clear vision and direction for the film. The production stage was thrilling, as we filmed on location and in studio settings, rotating through various crew roles. This hands-on experience significantly enhanced my practical skills. Finally, in post-production, we completed editing, sound design, and other tasks, finalizing the film for exhibition.
One of the most exciting aspects of this project was its experimental nature. We pushed the boundaries of traditional filmmaking, exploring conceptual techniques that blended art and cinema to create a unique narrative. This approach not only expanded our creativity but also helped us develop our artistic and professional identities. Throughout the project, I gained confidence working with actors and learned to communicate effectively through sound and vision. The integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills fostered a holistic understanding of filmmaking.
Teamwork was a fundamental aspect of this journey. From the outset, we were encouraged to collaborate closely, listening to and being influenced by our peers and industry professionals. We applied fundamental filmmaking practices such as directing, producing, cinematography, sound design, and post-production. This collaborative approach helped me develop both creative and organizational skills.
As the project progressed, I began to find my individual voice. We formulated innovative ideas and experimented with alternative filmmaking practices, tailoring our expertise to align with our future career aspirations. This process ensured we had something meaningful to convey to our audience. By the project’s conclusion, I felt a newfound sense of professionalism. We applied our filmmaking knowledge and skills in a collaborative project, established a network of contacts, and promoted our skills to potential employers through our portfolios.
The “On the Road Diaries” short film is now ready for film festivals and exhibitions. It informs and intrigues audiences about climate change, effectively targeting its intended audience. The film integrates technical, practical, and creative modes of filmmaking, supported by a strong theoretical foundation. This project has not only enhanced my storytelling skills but has also provided me with a broader understanding of professional freelance filmmaking. The deliverable stands as a testament to the success of the eARTh program in fostering creativity, environmental consciousness, and professional growth.
