Final Reflection

I learned so much in this class. I have always loved experimental film, but I shied away from it in the past because for some reason I had the understanding that my work as an experimental filmmaker would never go anywhere. I was afraid nobody would get it, nobody would see it, nobody would care. But this class completely changed my perspective on experimental film. I’ve been exposed to new experimental filmmaking practices, exhibition techniques, and overall ways of thinking about film. I’m also beginning to really understand what my strengths and interests are, and have been given the opportunity to expand upon those strengths and interests (ie: sound recording and design), whereas before I took this class, I had no idea what I wanted to focus on or even what I was good at. This class has also forced me to work outside of my comfort zone, putting me in situations where I have to talk to, interact with, and work with so many different people. Every project, presentation, and even the Cucalorus assignment made me nervous because I am an introvert to the extreme and I was afraid I wasn’t going to be able to contribute anything valuable to the group (or in the case of Cucalorus, the event), but every time it turned out better than I had hoped, and I managed to learn something about myself, filmmaking in general, and about the people I was working with.  I thought I always wanted to work alone, but I have grown as a filmmaker because now I see the benefit of working with other people with different talents and ideas, and I am much more open to it. Also, it’s just more fun working with people who also love film. Overall, I’m leaving this class with a better understanding of my talents and interests as a filmmaker, new ideas and filmmaking techniques, an open mind about working with other people, and a much deeper passion for making films that matter to me, all of which I can take with me into my last couple semesters at UNCW and then into the real world.