Now in its third year of existence, the MSU Cinema Club, a forum that provides students interested in film with the opportunity to help each other, is more or less a mystery to most.
“Many students across our campus love movies as much as I do but maybe don’t realize a club like this exists to support and encourage young filmmakers, screenwriters, directors and actors to come together,” English junior Lindsey Robbins said. “The best part about being in the Cinema Club here is the people I have met and the opportunities that come along.”
In her first year in the club, Robbins wishes she had learned about the club during her freshman year.
However, recognition on such a large campus is hard for a small club to come by.
“It’s a good experience for anyone who’s interested in what film has to offer, and for me hopefully the experiences have just begun,” she said.
Nearly 20 years ago, the MSU Filmmakers Club was founded and eventually buckled because of financial problems and lack of organization. But, Cinema Club member John Versical said, it left some of its charm on campus.
“The MSU Cinema Club has been a great way to bring together students interested in film, whether they are in any major,” the interdisciplinary humanities senior said. “Together we often help each other out on each other’s film projects. Usually, at any given time, there are at least two or three projects going on.”
For telecommunication sophomore Joe Crampton, the club is a great way for talented, interested students to introduce themselves to film at MSU.
“We basically discuss different ways of making films, and we use each other’s film knowledge to produce our own,” Crampton said. “We are always looking for new talent and curious newcomers.”
The club holds meetings at 9 p.m. Tuesdays in B-102 Wells Hall.
“Unfortunately, every year begins with several dozen interested members, but due to lack of publicity, we often hold meetings with less than 10 or so students,” Versical said. “It’s very important that all students interested in film are welcome to attend meetings and find out about us.”
Versical, along with club member Naveen Singh, an English senior, have actually begun producing a short film called “I, Cantaloupe” this year with the help of the club.
“The goal of the club is not to put its name on a project for its own glory, but rather to allow aspiring filmmakers access to the plethora of talent and resources at MSU,” said English senior Alton Pelowski, the chief organizer of the club. “Its success almost entirely depends on the motivation of its members, since if no one has any scripts or ambition, nothing will get done.
“Fortunately, this year’s club has some members who are serious about filmmaking, have written their own scripts and have began filming them.”
