Student docs at film fest

A supposedly haunted mental hospital, the struggle of injured athletes on campus, a hockey player with cerebral palsy – all are the focus of student documentaries that will be shown Thursday, April 28, as the culmination of a film production class.

Students have been working all semester on creating interesting and professional documentary.

“In just one semester, they’ve been able to put together some really compelling stories, and many of them had no experience before the class,” said professor Jason Roche, the class instructor. “They’ve gone from not knowing how to set up a camera or edit to being able to write, produce and direct their own films.”

For the final examination, the documentary film production class is hosting a screening of all of the documentaries.

Roche has produced several documentaries himself, including “Stealing Home,” a story about a group of baseball fans who call themselves the Navin Field Grounds Crew and take care of the old Tiger Stadium ball diamond.

Roche also started a documentary at the beginning of the semester to help his students in a hands-on form. It follows Roche as he strives to get back into shape to compete in martial arts. It will be shown at the screening, as well.

“I’m really impressed by what these students have accomplished,” added Roche.

All students, faculty, staff and guests are welcome to attend the free screening. 

It will be held on Thursday, April 28, from 2 to 3:50 p.m. in room 209 of the Commerce and Finance Building.