Ward Melville HS Alumna Sheds Light On Film Industry

THREE VILLAGE, NY - From Three Village Central School District: Three Village Central School District’s Ward Melville High School art, graphic design and film students learned about the film industry – particularly the Los Angeles sector – when Class of 1991 graduate and current producer Tara Langton conducted a workshop at the school.

During the in-house program, the students viewed Ms. Langton’s short film “Finding Anissa Jones,” which was accepted into the Stella Adler Academy Short + Sweet Film Festival in Hollywood, and engaged in a question and answer session with the independent filmmaker. Ms. Langton explained the path she took to create her film — one that she served as a writer, actor and producer on — and her passion for the craft.

“This event was a great eye opening experience for the students, as they were able to understand the vastness of making a film,” said teacher Stephanie DiLorenzo. “By seeing her film, including the outtakes, the students were able to feel validation for what they are doing in the classroom and it was good for them to get input on the process from a different voice.”

As a follow up to the visit, each student was presented with a tip sheet of advice that Ms. Langton’s team of directors compiled, which included things that they wished they knew when first starting in the industry.

“It was truly helpful to hear from someone in the industry — especially as that someone has the same educational background as each of us,” said junior Jake DePinto. “Knowing how difficult it can be to break through in this industry, her talk was very inspiring and resonated the importance of never giving up on one’s passion and being a strong advocate for your project.”

Photo courtesy of the Three Village Central School District