TV & Film

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

TV & FILM

Benjamin’s TV and film students are visual storytellers. The stories they craft are part of a broader independent school community of artists and innovators who are encouraged to take risks in a collaborative and supportive environment.

These innovative risk-takers hone their skills at both the middle and high school level in state-of-the-art television studios, control rooms, and postproduction areas. Students are empowered through an immersive experience to become effective communicators in a rapidly evolving media landscape. From writing for the screen to producing documentaries and live news broadcasts, students benefit from hands-on instruction in the studio and in the field.

Director of Multimedia Productions Ken Archer says students who have traveled through the middle school multimedia program are well prepared by the time they step foot into his classroom. While Archer can name a multitude of former students who have gone on to achieve success in film schools across the country, senior Devyn Dyett ‘21 stands out for work that is, in Archer's estimation, “second to none.”

Dyett has recently produced two powerful documentaries — one featuring a current Benjamin student’s “triumph over tragedy” — that are nominated for several film awards through the Palm Beach County Film Festival, as well as the Florida Scholastic Press Association. Dyett credits Archer for his mentorship as she continues to undertake new projects.

Devyn Dyett ’21, attending USC’s School for Cinematic Art this fall. “He gives great guidance and technical tips along the way, but makes sure I have the main creative control, which I really appreciate. Media is a form of art, meaning there is no real right or wrong way. Mr. Archer stays up to date on emerging filming techniques and encourages me to try new things,” said Dyett.

Dyett says she has also enjoyed the peer-review process in her Advanced Film Production class.

“The intimacy of the class allows us to get a good look at each other’s work, while not taking constructive criticism personally,” said Dyett.

Dyett, who will be attending USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, said Benjamin’s Alumni Association was invaluable to her as a filmmaker.

“I was able to connect with professional screenwriter and Benjamin alumnus Mark Swift ‘88. Mr. Swift is a writer for big blockbuster movies like Friday the 13th and Freddy vs. Jason. I reached out to him and he gave me very extensive critiques on my script, as well as notes on scriptwriting in general. I was blown away by the guidance he provided and thanked him tremendously. If I did not attend Benjamin, I would not have had that opportunity,” said Dyett.