Into Film Clubs
Find out everything you need to know about starting an Into Film Club.
Our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) programme provides young people from all across the UK with a unique opportunity to both help shape our programme and gain a window into the film industry.
Whilst Covid-19 meant that most of our usual discussion sessions and events with them have had to be run online so far, our latest cohort of brilliant members have still certainly made the most of their time, from a Q&A with IMDB CEO and Into Film trustee Col Needham to judging the Scottish Youth Film Festival.
We wanted to honour of all this by inviting members from all 5 regional Councils (England South, England North & Midlands, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) to discuss what inspires them, their aspirations in the film industry and their advice to other young people thinking of getting involved. Discover more about each talented and unique member below, as well why your students might want to get involved as well.
Eoin (17)
Region: Northern Ireland
What is your favourite film/film that's had an impact on you?
My favourite film is Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind. I adore this film, from its inventive cinematography to its ingenious sound design, but my admiration can all be boiled down to this… it's a film about the inner workings of a complex relationship and a deep dive into the psyche of 2 individuals, literally and figuratively. The sci-fi concept merely elevates the film, rather than being the entirety of the film like other stereotypical science fiction tales.
Who is your film industry inspiration?
What inspires me in the film industry is innovation and the filmmakers who have the courage to chase that innovation. Rian Johnson brought back and innovated the ‘Whodunit' with his grandiose film Knives Out. Although, if I had to mention other filmmakers that inspire me, they would be Edgar Wright, Roger Deakins, Martin Scorsese, Charlie Kaufman and Greta Gerwig.
What would your ideal role in the film industry be?
I know it's cliché but I'll work anywhere in the film industry. Just to be on set and be in an environment surrounded with like-minded and passionate collaborators is a dream of mine. Despite this, the complex innerworkings of cinematography, writing, directing and acting have always interested me but I would also like to have a go at everything and gain knowledge on each department.
What does being a member of the YAC mean to you?
It means having a say in the ever-growing and exciting Northern Ireland film industry. Being part of the YAC makes you feel like you are apart of something bigger than yourself and to have influential people properly listen to your opinions and not pass them off just because you're ‘too young and inexperienced'.
What has been your highlight as a member of YAC so far?
There has been so many! If I was forced to pick one at gunpoint, it would be the Q&A with IMDb's founder Col Needham where I was part of the panel Through this opportunity, my self-confidence improved, my confidence with public speaking drastically improved and most importantly, I got to get an honest insight into IMDb, a site which I use almost every day!
What would be your top tip for young people interested in becoming a member of the YAC?
Just go for it. It may seem like a daunting task and you may be shy but trust me, just go for it. Besides, your shyness will immediately cease in your first YAC meeting, with the informal and welcoming environment. Furthermore, the YAC opens so many doors and opportunities in relation to the film industry.
What is your favourite part of Into Film's offer beyond the YAC?
Into Film's ScreenWorks programme grants a multitude of opportunities. I have been involved in many of them including the Story Development Mentorship with Amanda Verlauqe, where I gained priceless insight into the world of screenwriting and even constructing a 24-page screenplay. ScreenWorks is a priceless resource which I recommend to anyone and everyone!
Sohana (14)
Region: The North and Midlands
What is your favourite film/film that's had an impact on you?
One of my favourite films is Dune. I think this movie had phenomenal cinematography and music. I also found the acting amazing. It's a movie I love to get lost in and I think the plot was very different to many other movies I had seen before.
What would your ideal role in the film industry be?
My ideal role would be a producer as I think it's a difficult but engaging role in the industry. However I find all roles in the film industry intriguing and important.
What does being a member of the YAC mean to you?
I have learnt so many things whilst being a member and enjoyed every part of it, and it has really helped me understand the film industry. In my opinion, one of the best parts is how many people I have been able to meet that all have the same passion for film and this industry as I do.
What has been your highlight as a member of YAC so far?
My highlight of being a YAC member has to be all the opportunities I have been given. I have been able to help judge many short films which I have enjoyed and ask a question to Bond producer and Into Film trustee Barbara Broccoli.
What would be your top tip for young people interested in becoming a member of the YAC?
My top tip would be just get involved if you love films and the industry - this is perfect for you as you are provided many opportunities.
Where is your favourite cinema and why?
My favourite cinema is the Vue cinema in the Lowry, I have gone there since i first watched a movie when I was 3 years old. It is always comfortable there as it never gets too busy. However I have always loved the cinema experience no matter which cinema I go to or where.
Mimi, 12
Region: South East
What is your favourite film/film that's had an impact on you?
Back to the Future. I love this film because it feels like a timeless classic that does not age. I've watched the trilogy so many times and each time they just get better.
Who is your film industry inspiration?
I didn't know much initially about Barbara Broccoli but after doing some research and getting the wonderful opportunity to meet her through YAC, I can honestly say she is a true inspiration. Listening to her story and the work she is doing to help the next generation and women in the film industry was very interesting.
What would be your ideal role in the film industry?
My ideal role would be to work within CGI. I love the idea of creating something truly magical onscreen that would make people imaginations ignite.
What does being a member of the YAC mean to you?
I really enjoy being in the meetings where we vote on our favourite short films and are able to give our opinions. These experiences make me feel that my ideas and thoughts are appreciated and considered.
What would be your top tip for young people interested in becoming a member of the YAC?
Make the most of the wonderful opportunities YAC gives you. Completely immerse yourself in the meetings and don't be afraid to take part and give your view.
Where is your favourite cinema and why is it your favourite?
I really enjoy going to a small local cinema in Sittingbourne called 'The New Century Cinema'. It's a really old classic cinema that was opened in 1937. It's definitely not your typical cinema chain.
What is your favourite part of Into Film's offer beyond the YAC?
Before joining the YAC I was part of an Into Film Club and after watching films at school on a Friday evening, I had to write reviews and post them on the Into Film website. I absolutely loved giving my thoughts and opinions on the movies. I won two nation review certificates.
Umberto, 15
Region: Wales
What is your favourite film/film that's had an impact on you?
Usual Suspects.
Who is your film industry inspiration?
Neil Patrick Harris, Matt LeBlanc, Eddie Murphy, Ryan Reynolds.
What would be your ideal role in the film industry?
My ideal role in the film industry would be as an actor.
What does being a member of the YAC mean to you?
It allows me to stay connected with the film industry, and learn how it operates and functions, which hopefully will give me a better chance of finding my ideal job.
What has been your highlight as a member of YAC so far?
So far my highlight as a YAC member has been listening to Barbara Broccoli and Col Needham as they gave me an incredibly important insight into how the film industry (and platforms associated with the film industry) work.
Where is your favourite cinema and why is it your favourite?
My favorite cinema is probably Premier because they have very affordable tickets and very nice seats. It's also right in front of a train station which makes it very accessible.
Aimee, 16
Region: Scotland
What is your favourite film/film that's had an impact on you?
What would be your ideal role in the film industry?
Director of Photography.
What does being a member of the YAC mean to you?
Having the chance to learn in an encouraging environment and have your opinions be validated.
What has been your highlight as a member of YAC so far?
Watching and judging the films for Scottish Youth Film Festival.
What would be your top tip for young people interested in becoming a member of the YAC?
Wear your passion on your sleeve! It may be hard to try something new, but if your love of film is there express it, as everyone there will have that same passion. Most importantly, have fun!
Where is your favourite cinema and why is it your favourite?
Glasgow Film Theatre because it is very accessible for young people with the 15-25 card to see independent films rarely shown at cinema chains.
