Lights, Camera, Action: Highlights from the Second Annual Junior School Film Festival

Outstanding Opportunities Riverside Junior SHR Article

The second annual Junior School Film Fest was a resounding success! From suits and sparkles to the red carpet and incredible films debuting on the big screen, it felt like a true night in Hollywood. Following a James Bond theme, students dressed to impress, showcasing their action-packed films to the Shrewsbury community and esteemed guest judges in attendance.

Guests arrived at the event in the early evening, presenting their tickets at registration before making their way down the red carpet and into the Long Court. There were plenty of opportunities for photos with Bond-themed backdrops and props, including a rideable motorcycle and tuk-tuk. Attendees could also pose with a brand new Aston Martin Vanquish centred in Morris Forum, courtesy of our partnership with Motor Field Thailand. The Long Court was lined with numerous food vendors, allowing guests to order dinner and a drink before the show. The Music Department provided upbeat music to accompany the networking hour, with guests enjoying pieces ranging from modern pop and rock to songs from the James Bond movies themselves. As the hour came to a close, guests grabbed their popcorn and headed to Memorial Hall, hoping to secure the best seats, while the student filmmakers prepared backstage for their grand debut. 

Guests settled into their seats as the auditorium buzzed with anticipation. The festival began with lively orchestral and dance performances by Shrewsbury students to excite the crowd, followed by a short film and speech from Phil Stewart, Head of Junior School, that kicked off the night.

“What a start it’s been to this evening. Full of drama, full of comedy… and some questionable acting,” Phil said.

Guest judges, all successful members of the film industry, travelled from around the world to contribute their expertise and carefully select award winners. The judging panel consisted of esteemed actors, cinematographers, directors, producers and writers. Films were judged in seven categories, including Best of Year 4, Best of Year 5 and Best of Year 6, as well as Best Overall Film, Best Soundtrack, Best Voiceover and Best Actor. 

Judges included Adi Alfa, producer, writer and actress, and Eric Myers, film director and cinematographer, who both spent the week at Shrewsbury Riverside hosting acting, and public speaking and special effects makeup workshops. The pair also attended the Junior School Speech Day as guests of honour, where they delivered an inspiring speech for our award winners. Throughout the week, Adi and Eric shared their rich industry knowledge with students, providing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for those who worked with them.

“I’m so impressed, wow. It’s been a pleasure teaching you all and just learning with you all week, you’re incredible,” Adi said. “Parents and teachers, they are a testament to how incredible you guys are. I’m so proud of you all.”

Other judges at the festival were Khun Jaew, Thai director and actor; Rachaphun (Rushey) Phisutsinthop, Post Supervisor at Workpoint Entertainment and Director and Editor at Foodhouse Productions; Niall O’Connor, award-winning cinematographer; and Lyndsey Jackson, senior arts administrator and live event producer, currently serving as Deputy Chief Executive at Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society. 

Inspiration flowed throughout the evening, not just from our highly acclaimed judges but also from the students themselves. They illustrated their unparalleled determination, creativity and passion. The endless possibilities that accompany youth are a refreshing reminder that no matter the age, anything is possible.

“It’s been an honour to be here. What’s best about tonight is you guys brought me back to the first day I made a film. You give me such a passion. Keep up the good work, guys, and be a good storyteller,” Rushey said. 

Videos with words of wisdom submitted by well-known industry professionals were also shown between awards, including Wes Nelson, a popular English music artist and reality TV star. 

“I want you to go all in, have every single egg in that basket, and trust me, it’ll pay off in the future, and you won’t have any regrets,” Wes said.

The evening was a culmination of our students’ hardwork and dedication, a glamorous pinnacle of the multifaceted educational experience we strive to provide. Shrewsbury Riverside encourages ‘whole-self’ development in all students, and filmmaking serves as a way to enrich traditional educational lessons with creativity and skills that are best developed outside the classroom. Individuality, teamwork and self-expression are all important facets of a well-rounded education, and valuable skills were strengthened in students through the filmmaking process.

“There’s a reason we introduced this to the curriculum last year,” Phil Stewart said. “Students working together, solving issues, being resilient and empathetic with each other…Those are all key takeaways,” he added.

A well-rounded educational experience is a top priority at Shrewsbury Bangkok, and the annual Junior Film Festival exemplifies the many unique opportunities provided to students. Through teamwork, creativity, oracy skills and the development of new technical abilities, filmmaking enriches the curriculum in an imaginative manner, providing students with invaluable academic knowledge and, more importantly, life skills to go out into the world as unique individuals capable of making their dreams come true— no matter how big they may be.