CREDIT: COURTESY OF ADVANCED FILMMAKING
The festival includes students who helped on the projects from programs like audio post-production and acting for screen and stage.

Fanshawe’s advanced filmmaking (AFM) students are looking to showcase their work to the student body. Each student submits two of their works that they’ve created throughout the school year and all of the films get organized into a three-hour event.

“The festival is kind of a celebration of all the work we’ve done in advanced filmmaking,” said Brandon Grubb, festival director of the First Take Film Festival and Interrobang videographer.

Not only is it a celebration, but it’s also a time to say goodbye as the students as they approach graduation.


“I think it’s very nice because over the last year, we’ve gotten really close with all of our classmates,” said Asiah Prestanski, who’s on the social media team for the event. “We got to watch all of our films come to life and I think it’s super cool to be able to share that with the people that we care about and love.”

The festival includes students who helped on the projects from programs like audio post-production and acting for screen and stage. It gives the opportunity for students to show work that, maybe, they haven’t shared with anyone outside of their classmates.

“Sometimes it’s scary and sometimes it’s exciting [to show your work],” said Prestanski. “I’m excited to show my work because I’m proud of it, but I’m also scared because I know it’s not perfect. I’m still a student, and I’m still learning a bunch.”

Prestanski added that she likes that she’s proud of something that isn’t perfect. She said it means a lot more. And for viewers, this gives you the chance to watch the early films of London’s next big filmmakers.

“London is trying to expand its film background,” said Grubb. “It’s a small event where you get to see local talent and connect with people. It’s a very cool night.”

First Take Film Festival also has something for everyone. With the varying work styles that went into each film, all genres are covered.

One film that is going to be featured was done by María José Montes de Oca Sanchez de la Barquera.

“My story is about Lucy, who is struggling with her mother’s disease,” she said. “During her therapy sessions, she opens up about her relationship and how that has been helping her cope with her troubles. After years of mental diseases running through her family, reality will be hard to tell.”

For Barquera, this marks the end of a year abroad, celebrating with all her new friends and co-workers.

“It makes me very emotional because I will miss everyone. It makes me emotional to say goodbye.”

This film festival allows Fanshawe students to pay it back to the people that support so many events within the school.

“You’re supporting the people around you that you probably see in the hallways all the time,” said Prestanski. “The film and television programs, we are the people that help a lot with showing sporting events. We support you in one way, maybe you can come and support us in another.”

The festival takes place on April 21 in room D1060 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. It’s completely free to attend.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or a movie buff, there’s something for everyone.