The Film Department at Mater Dei has undergone many changes and renovations this past year. And with new spaces comes upgraded technology. As the program expands, students and teachers alike are thrilled for new opportunities to create and record. What began as a small program built on passion has grown into a creative space for students to explore their skills in broadcasting, film, or production. 

Over the summer, the Monarch Television (MDTV) and the Film and Media program moved its studio from the former trailers to the 600 wing near the Grotto and the heart of the campus. The relocation provided a bigger space with more advanced technology and brought the program closer to the everyday energy of student life. The move also brought upgrades, including new gear, cameras, and even a new MDTV set. 

“We’ve created a real studio environment that students can use, as opposed to mocking something together that was good enough for as long as we had it,” Director of Film and Media Andrew Roberts said. “This gives students a real chance to express themselves and create in a much more concentric and professional environment.”

The program’s expansion opens possibilities to more experiences and professional connections. These opportunities have inspired students to broaden their horizons and vision. The program’s curriculum now includes more advanced ways of producing, making the production of short films and broadcasting much more efficient. 

“My hope is that as the program grows, we can continue to refine our curriculum,” Roberts said. “[We plan to] expand our corporate partnerships, working with these companies that are supporting us, like Lumix, [and] be able to offer students more professional interactions with filmmakers and manufacturers. [I aim] to really just keep pushing the creative boundaries of what my students can do and really testing those let’s get them shooting more complex work.” 

Students are excited about the new renovations. Senior Matteo Lopez has been a part of the program his entire four years and has witnessed this growth firsthand. 

“When I first joined, [the room] was still kind of small,” Lopez said. “Now there’s more equipment and more interesting projects. I feel like I have room to be more creative, and with more gear, it makes everything easier.”

As the film department evolves, Mater Dei’s student filmmakers are ready to tell stories and capture ideas through their lenses.