Townsend

Alriight-- the first day of class at AAU wasn't bad.. wasn't bad at all.

I can't complain about starting off my first class of the week at 3:30 in the afternoon. Photo storyboarding and Super 8mm filmmaking-- so far it's looking as sweet as it sounds. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there were only 15 to 17 students in the class. It's definitely different than sitting in a lecture hall with 30 plus students. It's great. There is no doubt in my mind now that AAU really is more of a hands-on learning environment compared to other film schools. Getting pretty anxious about checking out the Nikkon FM10 35mm SLR, and Kinoflex Super8mm from the equipment facility... (what is all that???)

Since the campus is pretty much a part of the city, getting to your class can get pretty hectic. As exciting as the life can be over here, I really do hope that these traffic conditions won't put any of my tuition to waste!

Speaking of tuition... and well, the enrollment of all the students here, I've been hearing a lot of interesting comments about the massive drop out rate of this school. I believe there was one year with a 60% freshmen drop out rate. This certainly questions my passion for motion pictures and television.

From what I've gradually seen from the beginning, the school isn't ordinary. And it's definitely not going to be an ordinary college experience.

To be honest with you, I can't imagine myself in a better place.






Christopher Nolan shares his memories of Heath Ledger on Newsweek. It really is a wonderful tribute to the young actor. Check it out at: http://www.newsweek.com/id/105580

After reading Nolan's reflections, I can't help but appreciate the strong connection he builds between himself and his production team. It really is what filmmaking is all about-- a responsibility of understanding and appreciating the people you work with. I don't see how filmmaking is possible without it.

I hope the life and extraordinary work of Heath Ledger will always continue to live as a great inspiration to the entertainment community.