SFTV students on the Study Abroad Program in Bonn had the extraordinary opportunity to take a trip to the battlefields in Northern France to mark the centenary of the longest battle of World War I.
In September 2017, the Bonn film students traveled to Northern France, to the Meuse-Argonne American cemetery to honor the fallen Americans on the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the biggest battle that the Americans fought during World War 1.
“This trip was significant in remembering those who have sacrificed for our country,” said Glenn Gebhard, Professor, Production Film & Television.
“Following that visit, we walked through the memorial at Verdun, where so many French and German young people lost their lives in that same war, and then to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.
“Seeing the European Community Center, students were reminded that it is only in unity that wars are not necessary.”
The Study Abroad program, where LMU students go to Bonn has been a staple of international film education in LMU’s SFTV. Since the inception of the program in 2003, over 250 SFTV students have studied at our overseas facilities in conjunction with the Academy for International Education in Bonn, Germany.
Having produced hundreds of documentary films which have won innumerable international film festivals, this program is a unique opportunity for film students to understand the importance of non-fiction films and in learning production from an international perspective.
“Studying abroad is a personal experience – you learn a lot about yourself as you gain a sense of adventure and independence,” said Charlie Ozburn (Film Production ’19). Ozburn said that living in Europe for four months was an eye-opening experience that remains the highlight of his time at Loyola Marymount University.
Getting to make a documentary abroad added value to Ozburn’s personal experience. He found the film-making process in Bonn was more spontaneous and creatively liberating compared to that in Los Angeles. “You’re supported in creating your film without the hindrance of all the logistics, permits, and regulations involved in making a film in LA,” he explains.
He also claims that the environment plays a huge part in the filmmaking process. “Living in Germany, you can’t shake the constant awareness of how unique and strange the culture is when compared to our lives in LA. Making a documentary in Europe is your opportunity to explore some of these nuances and more deeply explore those that resonate with you. You have the chance to create a film that reflects your sensibilities and your individuality in a very unique way.”
Nov. 4 is the deadline for applications to the Study Abroad Program in Bonn.
