THE SHOW MUST GO ON

While many film organizations shut up shop during the pandemic, BAFTA kept going in the virtual world and even transferred one its award shows online complete with ‘red carpet’ interviews and acceptance speeches.

Instead of canceling, the creative minds at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts found a way to make the 2020 BAFTA Games Awards go ahead in a different form by connecting presenters, nominees and winners via their home computers.

But that’s not the only way BAFTA kept members engaged, educated and entertained while social distancing rules meant they could not meet up in person.

Screenings went online, Q&As with stars were held on Zoom as were masterclasses and mentoring sessions.

The idea was to retain the community’s sense of togetherness in a time of social distancing and raise spirits at the same time.

Oscar winning actor Matthew McConaughey has begun a new chapter in his life by leaving Hollywood and becoming a teacher.

He has moved back home to Texas and started teaching a film class at his alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin.

It’s part of a new life plan for the star who recently turned 50 and began thinking of ways he could give back to the community which raised him.

One way is with his Script to Screen course in which students study the making of various films from his career and learn the full process in the making of a movie.

Another is through his Just Keep Livin’ foundation which helps failing students in more than 50 schools get back on track with all manners of assistance programs in exercise, nutrition, accountability, discipline and community service.

McConaughey has by no means given up his acting career but has taken on extra responsibilities in the hope of inspiring the next generation to be on the path to their own big achievements.

Matthew's classes were interrupted by the coronavirus crisis. However he is looking forward to resuming them as soon as possible and maybe doing more teaching as part of his new life plan.

—Sandro Monetti