Please introduce yourself.
Hi! I am a screenwriting student and media buff trying to start a career in the film and television industry. I love costume design, directing, soundtracks, set design, and writing stories and reviews.
What was the last piece of media you consumed and really enjoyed?
I have been watching “The Last of Us” series as it comes out weekly. The whole show has been absolutely gorgeous but episode 3 has really stuck with me. I know I'm not alone in this because the internet has gone nuts about it, unsurprisingly. The episode is paced so uniquely and so well, you fall in love with the characters in only an hour. Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett have great chemistry and I sobbed like a baby at the end of their story. I would recommend this show to absolutely anyone.
Why do you think studying media is worthwhile?
I definitely don't think studying media in a structured environment is necessary for people going into the industry, in saying this, I am very early on in my journey, so take this with a grain of salt. I have learned far more about media theory from watching youtube videos and talking to experienced people than I have in most of the high school media and English classes I've done. However, I have learnt all practical knowledge (cameras, editing, etc.) whilst making content in or for classes. If you love discussion, analysis and writing essays (like I do), studying media will be a lot of fun. If not, good for you, get experience! Or, my favourite option, get work/experience while studying and get double the knowledge!
How would you describe your relationship with the media?
My relationship with the media has been long and loyal. I joined the “fandom” community quite young and went to my first comic convention in 2013. As soon as I was old enough to be on social media I made fan accounts for my favourite shows or movies. As I've gotten older I realised that the environment online can be pretty toxic but I have kept my attachments to the media I love. In some ways, I am dependent on media, it's how I see the world. When sad things happen in my life, more often than not I feel comfort knowing a character I like has gone through a similar thing. Seeing my experience represented on screen helps me move through and understand the world. Whether that's healthy or not, I’m not sure, but it helps me for now, so I will figure that out later.
What’s one piece of media you always return to?
Doctor Who. It is my favourite show of all time. Mostly just seasons 1-8, because I really dislike Chris Chibnals as a showrunner. I always come back to this show, no matter how I feel, I just chuck on a random episode that I feel like and sit back, relax, and feel calm.
If you were to recommend some media to people, what would it be and why?
First, I’ve got to say my favourite movie, Paddington 2. Its a gorgeous film about found family, facing adversity and marmalade, plus Hugh Grant is in it so that makes it 10x better! Seeing the influence of happiness and kindness on regular people is so beautiful and makes this movie so unique.
Next, is the absolutely incredible Apple TV original, Severance. This series is by Ben Stiller, who also made one of my favourtie movies, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Severance is by far the most suspenseful show ive ever seen, never revealing too much, but enough to bring you back for the next episode.
Next is a youtube channel! “LadyKnighttheBrave”, a wonderful youtuber who discusses media and cultural impacts on said media. My personal favourite videos are the Fleabag deepdive, The Bly Mannor essay and the Happy Death Day video, but all of her videos are unique, in-depth and super engaging.
The last one is a new show on Disney+, Extraordinary. This is a comedy about a world not too different to ours, except everyone has superpowers! This show is so stupid yet so clever. The best example being a cat called Jizzlord, who has a suprisiling fantastic character arc. Pretty hilarious show.
Do you find you prefer one media platform or form over another?
I really enjoy youtube, I spend a lot of time watching video essays and deepdives while studying, cleaning or commuting to school. I also enjoy some streaming services but I couldn’t name one I like better than the other, they all have good and bad shows and movies.
What do you wish the media did more of?
COMPLEX FEMALE CHARACTERS!! and more representation for all underrepresented groups, both in front and behind the camera. :)