Chris Newman

Chris is our Film Production Assistant

Chris comes from a computer tech background studying AVCE ICT at New College, Swindon and enjoyed the broad range of subjects from web design, graphic design, building computers, coding and so on. Alongside ICT Chris studied an A-level in Film Studies, this is where his love for film began. During the course he was exposed to a variety of films he may never of seen if it wasn’t for studying Film, as well as being able to see films in a different light to that which he had previously.

It was during this time Chris started making films with his friends and his new knowledge of directors and cinema started to influence his own personal style of filmmaking. Chris didn't take any courses or training in any aspect of filmmaking until he went to study Film and Video Production at Derby University with little knowledge of real-world filmmaking but masses of enthusiasm. During his time at University he went from being an aspiring writer/director back to his technical roots and focused on cinematography, editing and colour grading. Chris graduated in 2011 with a first-class degree! He brings his fresh knowledge and vast amounts creativity of filmmaking to the Light Films crew.

Behind the Scenes

Off set and out of the office Chris loves nothing more than crawling up in front of the TV and sticking on a film with his friends, watching trailers or reading up on the latest filmmaking equipment. His passion for making films never stops and can usually be found boring his friends with technical jargon and excitement over the latest releases.     Chris also loves travelling although has rarely had the opportunity to do so. His fondest memory is being stuck in New York an extra week with his University lecturers and friends thanks for the Eyjafjallajökull volcano that erupted in 2010 where he met some inspirational and interesting people and since then loves to explore new places and meet new people. But let's really get behind the scenes with Chris, and learn more about him:

What's the best thing about working at Light Films?

"One of the main highlights so far was working on a video project for one of our larger clients. Although the shoot was very cold it was a huge learning experience working alongside Tom and actors within strict guidelines that had us on our toes creatively solving challenges that faced us."

What did you do before working at Light Films?

"Before working for Light Films I studied Film and Video Production at Derby University. I have been making films since I was 16 and during college knew that it was the career path I wished to take. I have worked on a variety of video related projects from short films, music videos, corporate & weddings, so being able to do all of the above at Light Films is a huge bonus."

What is your favourite film?

"I have a number of favourite films that seems to change on a daily basis. Currently my favourite has to be ‘The Fall’ by Tarsem Singh because of its beautiful cinematography, gripping storyline and fantasy theme. The film was shot on 26 locations over 18 countries, that’s the type of film I’d love to be a part of!"

Who is your favourite film character and why?

"When I was growing up, and even to this day, there is one villain that I was petrified of yet secretly adored and that character was Cruella Deville from Disney’s ‘101 Dalmatians’, she was so evil yet unbelievable cool!"

Who is your favourite actor?

"Currently my favourite director is Christopher Nolan because he is at a very strong point within his career and is only going to keep going strong and making fantastic films. However my most inspirational director would be Peter Jackson. Since I first saw ‘Lord of the Rings’ I knew that I want to make a film like it. Also with ‘The Hobbit’ being in production and Peter making production videos he gives a lot to fans of his films, which is both inspirational and educational as a filmmaker."

What are you most looking forward to in 2012?

"In 2012 I am most looking forward to continue learning new skills and being pushed to my creative limits and breaking them. There are a lot of independent films in the pipeline at Light Films that I am very much excited to be a part of and will feel great working on our first feature film that begins filming in February."

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