Hallmark production prepares students for film careers

Having the chance to work on a cable network film does not come around often. So, when a Hallmark movie started shooting at the college in December 2022, six student interns took advantage of the opportunity to help with various tasks on set and get advice from experts in the industry.

“Being able to observe professionals in that environment allowed me to see the expected work ethic and attitude while shooting,” said Rebekah Powers, a recent Film & Media Arts graduate who worked as a technical intern for the production’s art department. She said her responsibilities included handling props and set dressing different locations.

Composition & Music Technologies and Theatre Arts students also served as interns on the shoot, according to Assistant Professor of Film & Media Arts Yson DeBlois. In addition, several other students and faculty were able to be background talent on camera.

Campus sites used in the film, titled “A Guide to Murder,” include Lewis Library, West Side, Sunny Gables and Broad Street Apartments.

When the film crew took a break from the 13-day shoot, DeBlois moderated a question-and-answer session on Dec. 6 with some of the movie’s key production members, including Director Haylie Duff.

During the event, crew members offered words of motivation to students who aspire to work in the industry.

“Once you start to network and you really start to find your niche in the film

industry, it takes some time to get there,” said Derek Wiseman, first assistant director. “Don’t give up, no matter how hard.”

“Your career is always going to have highs and lows,” said Jaime Brightbill, actress and production assistant. “Don’t put your self-worth into it. Learn everything. You’ll never stop working.