Spotlight: A Passion for Filmmaking
TCF alumnus Ben Stark, class of 2006, found everything he needed at UA to follow his dreams of being a filmmaker. Not only did he receive excellent technical training, but, more importantly, he discovered encouraging instructors, co-workers and classmates.
Name: Benjamin Stark
Major: Telecommunications & Film: Audio/Video Production
Graduation year: August 2006
Current position: Video Editor, Independent Filmmaker (Producing, Screenwriting, Directing)
How has the College helped you in your career:
Not only did I have great teachers with high expectations at UA, but I was also able to get a job at the Center for Public Television & Radio in Reese Phifer, which provided the best kind of on-the-job media training I could ask for. I was heavily encouraged to write and direct short films outside of class and work, and was able to use the Communication College’s equipment and editing facilities a majority of the time.
Best thing about college:
Beyond equipment, research materials and an encouraging environment, the most essential thing I found during my time at college was a group of collaborators I still work with to this day. The cast and crew of both of the feature films I've been fortunate enough to work on have been heavily comprised of University of Alabama alumni.
Best thing, so far, about your career:
In college, so much of the conversation between my peers and myself focused on feature film-making dreams. In 2009, I was fortunate enough to direct my first feature-length screenplay, “The Nocturnal Third.” It is currently in post-production. I also served as producer on the Moundville-based adventure film “A Genesis Found,” set to release on DVD in the spring of 2010.