Representation

 Representation is a HUGE aspect of film, because representing different groups of people, different options, and locations can all allow the audience to not only create a deeper connection with the film itself, but also feel heard in the world of filmmaking. Our film has an interesting selection of representation, and I am here today to talk a little more about it. 

Who is represented in your film?

Our film features four main characters, all of which are high school students. They all have completely different personalities, personas, and elements that make them UNIQUE to one another. For example, one way that we are representing is through different ethnicities. Our four main characters are European, Jamaican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban, representing young teenagers from all across the world. 

Is it fair, stereotypical?

The original ideas for the different personas of our characters were in fact stemed from high school stereotypes. However, in the end, we ensured that it was fair, and that we didn't leech too much onto stereotypes. We ensured that we each got a chance to change some aspects of our character, making sure that even though they followed a grouping of sorts that the audience could understand, it was not stereotypical and MOCKING of anyone. 

How are you challenging representation with your film?

We are challenging representation with our film through inclusion of social issues and other forms of problems that the audience can relate to. A lot of the time, representation is so limited in film, and we wanted to make sure that we really got to branch out in this case. We tied a lot of our characterization with mental health, each main character going through something different in life. This way, our film would not only be able to represent different TYPES of people, but also the different types of lifestyles and problems that people encounter. We include issues like family trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger issues as well. We hope that our inclusion of this ensures a film opening that people can relate to. 

I don't feel that we need to make any edits to improve our characters, and that we have represented to a large group of individuals.