LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — The Los Alamitos High School film department is premiering its fifth annual student short film, titled “Free Trial.” This student-made film will debut June 7 at the Bay Theatre on Main St., with show times disclosed closer to the opening date.
The film team is excited to premiere at an official theater with a red carpet and fancy attire. In previous years, the premiere has been hosted in the LAHS Performing Arts Center. “Free Trial” will be part of a community film festival, shown with middle school and alumni films.
The short film was written by Joey Ito and directed by Abigail Zidonis. They are dedicating immeasurable time to creating the short film and guiding others in the process. The film stars freshman Dutch Stephens, sophomore Jayden Villa, junior Evan Pagan and junior Mason Potter.
Since December, around 100 students have been working on the short film, writing and revising the script. The production is a long process, including working on the script, auditioning and choosing actors, filming and editing. The process is challenging, pushing the students and giving them a unique professional experience.
Mr. Brown, the film teacher at LAHS, has guided the students and assisted in the short film’s production. He is proud of what the class has accomplished and the dedication they have put into the film.
“To do a project of this size is very tough and very impressive, especially at the level at which they do it. We’re super excited to see the end product come June,” Mr. Brown said.
Kyan Whiten, a senior at LAHS, is the director of photography of the short film. He sets up the camera shots, creating the vision of the film.
“It’s a lot of fun. Everyone knows what they need to do workwise, but we’re also having fun while doing it, making jokes and having a great time,” Whiten said.
While the short film requires a lot of work from everyone involved, the team enjoys each other’s company on set and working together.
“Becoming friends with these people and being able to create something that you’re all able to say you’re proud of at the end of the day is really special,” Whiten said.
The short film is still in production, and the team would appreciate student volunteers to appear as extras in scenes filmed on May 20 at the Bay Theatre. If you are interested, please use this link to sign up, contact Mr. Brown at [email protected] or visit room 415. No acting experience is necessary.
