Student filmmakers focus on community groups

Talented filmmakers put the spotlight on Reading's business and community groups at the University of Reading's Department of Film, Theatre and Television Spring Showcase.

The event, at Reading Biscuit Factory on Wednesday, 12 March, provided a public platform for a range of student-led commercial and community filmmaking projects.

The showcase featured collaborative works developed through FTT's Commercial and Community Filmmaking module, which has paired students with diverse project partners including The Museum of English Rural Life, Reading Mencap, Berkshire Brigands rugby team, Whitley Community Development Association, and the Reading School of Pharmacy.

Dr Shweta Ghosh, who leads the module, said: "This wonderful showcase celebrated the creative achievements of our students and the meaningful connections they have built with Reading's vibrant community groups and businesses.

"The films and media projects on display represented months of collaborative work that benefits our students' professional development, while also making important local initiatives visible on the big screen."

Building film culture

Projects showcased include "The Absolute Units Podcast" with The Museum of English Rural Life, the community filmmaking project "Perspectives" with Reading Mencap, documentary shorts "Just Another Rugby Team" and "The Beating Heart of Whitley," and video vignettes titled "Bridging the Silence, Unspoken Barriers" designed to enhance undergraduate cultural competence, for the Reading School of Pharmacy.

Ben Morgan, Reading Mencap, said: “It's been a incredible journey and I'm glad that I was able to be a part of it.”

Dr Atta Naqvi, from the University of Reading’s School of Pharmacy, said: “Seeing how filmmaking can bring complex healthcare interactions to life has been eye-opening, and we are eager to work with the Film Department again on future projects that push the boundaries of innovative learning.”

The showcase was part of the wider Cine Connections project, supported by the Vice-Chancellor's Community Fund. The scheme exists to develop a more connected film culture in the Thames Valley region, while building stronger connections between higher education, local government, small businesses, industry and community groups.

Attendees at the free event met with students, project partners, and community participants, learnt about the collaborative filmmaking process, and enjoyed post-event networking drinks. 

The Commercial and Community Filmmaking module at the University of Reading provides students with hands-on experience in creating media projects for real-world clients, developing professional skills while contributing to community initiatives across the Thames Valley region.

The Spring Showcase is supported by the Vice Chancellor's Community Fund, Museums Partnership Reading, and Arts Council England.