aTVfest 2021: Bees keys
From Bryan Cranston to Cynthia Erivo to Laurence Fishburne, the 2021 SCAD aTVfest was a star-studded success. Javivia Leslie discussed her groundbreaking role as Batwoman, Jurnee Smollett shared how she uses her voice as a Time’s Up activist, and Kenan Thompson reflected on being the longest active cast member in the history of Saturday Night Live.
Many of the voices behind this current golden age of television are SCAD alumni. These Bees shared insights from their burgeoning careers during panels at this year’s virtual festival. Here are a few of the most memorable quotes from SCAD alumni at aTVfest.
Madison Hamburg, (B.F.A., film and television, 2014), director and executive producer, Murder on Middle Beach (HBO): “When it comes to making a documentary, the subject matter is not the most important factor. What matters most is you. What is your goal? What story are you trying to tell? How can you use your unique vision to connect with the audience? There will always be a more brutal crime, a more salacious scandal, a better researched climate change film, but there will never be another you.”
Brandon Nelson, (M.F.A., visual effects, 2008; B.F.A., visual effects, 2005), VFX supervisor: “Study and master the art of photography. Everything we do is based around the concept of the moving picture. Know how shutter speeds work. Understand how to use the camera as a component of the story you are trying to tell. Television is a blend between art and science, and the better you understand both, the more seamless and immersive your work will become.”
Cynthia Adarkwa, (B.F.A., dramatic writing, 2012), story editor: “The most important lesson I can give a young writer and storyteller is to embrace the re-writing process. Writers write. Then they edit. Then they write again. Your first draft is never the final draft. You can always improve, so embrace that process. The more comfortable you are in the editing stage, the better your work will be on screen.”
Emily Cardone-Dennis, (M.F.A., film and television, 2014), art department coordinator and production assistant: “Continue to evolve as a creative professional. Never stop learning new skills and look to work with people that will push you to try new things. SCAD has created an environment where you can collaborate with creative individuals form numerous backgrounds. Take advantage of this opportunity and don’t be afraid to explore.”
Marc Casey, (B.F.A., film and television, 2009), underwater cinematographer and assistant camera operator: “Don’t ever give up on your dreams. Write, direct, and shoot your own stuff early. Connect with established filmmakers and work to get on the set as early as possible. Learn something new every day, and look for opportunities to acquire new skills. Understand the importance of set etiquette and how to be a team player, while taking those opportunities to grow as an artist.”
Christian Magby, (B.F.A., performing arts, 2016), actor: “Participate in as many student films at SCAD as you can. Learn how a set works in the real world. The students creating at SCAD are running their sets exactly like we do in the industry. The more you can take advantage of your time at SCAD, the better you will be prepared for your career.”
Zeke Waters, (B.F.A., production design, 2019), set designer: “Television is booming right now, so take advantage of the opportunities around you. That includes your time at SCAD. Say yes to the work that presents itself to you, and collaborate as often as possible. The more well-rounded you are, the more valuable you are on set.”
