Reboot @ KinderUni: Inspiring the next generation of filmmakers
The mission to empower the next generation of filmmakers constituted the leitmotif of the REBOOT project team’s workshop at Vienna's Children's University (Kinder Uni) on July 12, 2024. Targeted at children aged 10 to 12, the initiative formed part of REBOOT’s broader mission to inspire young minds and foster creativity through hands-on learning. The workshop aimed to introduce participants to the art and science of filmmaking, sparking curiosity and potentially igniting future career aspirations in the film industry. It equally sought to educate them about the tools and processes involved, and provide insights into various professions within the industry. Through this hands-on approach, the REBOOT team aimed to empower the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.
Structured into two main phases, the session began with an introductory session led by two film professionals, who guided the children through the essential steps of filmmaking. From pre-production (planning and storyboarding) to post-production (editing and final touches). This phase sparked curiosity and prepared participants for the creative tasks ahead. The children were then divided into three groups, each supervised by a film professional and a researcher, to create their stop-motion films. Using “Legos” to build sets and characters, the young filmmakers explored diverse genres, ranging from horror to suspense and thriller, while maintaining creative control under expert guidance. This hands-on experience allowed them to apply their newfound knowledge and express their unique creative visions.
The workshop culminated in the creation of three unique stop-motion films, each with compelling storylines. These films showcased the children’s creativity, teamwork, and newfound filmmaking skills. Below are the storylines of the short films, which are available for viewers to enjoy:
Structured into two main phases, the session began with an introductory session led by two film professionals, who guided the children through the essential steps of filmmaking. From pre-production (planning and storyboarding) to post-production (editing and final touches). This phase sparked curiosity and prepared participants for the creative tasks ahead. The children were then divided into three groups, each supervised by a film professional and a researcher, to create their stop-motion films. Using “Legos” to build sets and characters, the young filmmakers explored diverse genres, ranging from horror to suspense and thriller, while maintaining creative control under expert guidance. This hands-on experience allowed them to apply their newfound knowledge and express their unique creative visions.
The workshop culminated in the creation of three unique stop-motion films, each with compelling storylines. These films showcased the children’s creativity, teamwork, and newfound filmmaking skills. Below are the storylines of the short films, which are available for viewers to enjoy:
Film 1: The curse of the warriors of Death.
Gertrud takes her dog Bella for a walk in a mysterious forest, unaware it’s haunted. As night falls, eerie sounds fill the air, and she hides in fear, only to witness ghostly spirits performing a chilling sword fight. But when the ghosts spot her, she vanishes without a trace, leaving Bella desperately searching for her beloved owner. A haunting tale of mystery and loss!
Watch the movie
Film 2: Blood night at midnight
Dark secrets unravel when young Jasmine is hurt by a sinister Mr. Smith. Her brave neighbor witnesses it all and calls for help, but things take a shocking turn when the doctor sent to save her poisons and kidnaps her instead! A heart-pounding police search, led by her loyal dog Sniffy, saves the day. Justice is served, love blossoms with her heroic neighbor, and they find their happily ever after. A thrilling ride from terror to triumph!
Watch the movie
Film 3: Lost in the Sea
Lisa and her dog are enjoying a fun day at sea, filming a TikTok on their boat. Afterward, Lisa takes a swim while her dog stays onboard. Suddenly, disaster strikes a fire erupts, and the boat explodes! In a daring leap, her dog jumps into the water just in time. Thankfully, a rescue team spots the explosion and rushes to save them both. A heart-stopping adventure with a happy ending!
Watch the movie
The results of the workshop were nothing short of impressive. Over 25 participants discovered a potential future career in filmmaking, showcasing the power of hands-on learning and early exposure to professional tools and techniques. Through this initiative, the REBOOT project team is nurturing the next generation of European filmmakers, demonstrating that creativity and passion can be ignited at a young age. As these young filmmakers continue to grow, it is hoped that the impact of this experience will resonate throughout their lives, inspiring them to explore their passions and perhaps pursue dreams in the film industry or beyond.
Gertrud takes her dog Bella for a walk in a mysterious forest, unaware it’s haunted. As night falls, eerie sounds fill the air, and she hides in fear, only to witness ghostly spirits performing a chilling sword fight. But when the ghosts spot her, she vanishes without a trace, leaving Bella desperately searching for her beloved owner. A haunting tale of mystery and loss!
Watch the movie
Film 2: Blood night at midnight
Dark secrets unravel when young Jasmine is hurt by a sinister Mr. Smith. Her brave neighbor witnesses it all and calls for help, but things take a shocking turn when the doctor sent to save her poisons and kidnaps her instead! A heart-pounding police search, led by her loyal dog Sniffy, saves the day. Justice is served, love blossoms with her heroic neighbor, and they find their happily ever after. A thrilling ride from terror to triumph!
Watch the movie
Film 3: Lost in the Sea
Lisa and her dog are enjoying a fun day at sea, filming a TikTok on their boat. Afterward, Lisa takes a swim while her dog stays onboard. Suddenly, disaster strikes a fire erupts, and the boat explodes! In a daring leap, her dog jumps into the water just in time. Thankfully, a rescue team spots the explosion and rushes to save them both. A heart-stopping adventure with a happy ending!
Watch the movie
The results of the workshop were nothing short of impressive. Over 25 participants discovered a potential future career in filmmaking, showcasing the power of hands-on learning and early exposure to professional tools and techniques. Through this initiative, the REBOOT project team is nurturing the next generation of European filmmakers, demonstrating that creativity and passion can be ignited at a young age. As these young filmmakers continue to grow, it is hoped that the impact of this experience will resonate throughout their lives, inspiring them to explore their passions and perhaps pursue dreams in the film industry or beyond.
Author: Yves Saint Clair Zogo is a junior lecturer at Erasmus University, Rotterdam – the Netherlands, and a research assistant in the REBOOT project.