On Feb. 6, Clemson University’s Brooks Center for the Performing Arts transformed into a red carpet movie premiere as students, faculty and guests gathered for the debut of “Student Film: The Movie.” The event, which began at 5 p.m., marked a milestone moment for Clemson’s world cinema program, representing its first feature film production.
Led by professor of practice Sam Sokolow, in collaboration with his wife, Julia Fowler, who wrote and directed the film, “Student Film: The Movie” was created as part of an experiential learning program designed to immerse students in the realities of film production. The project brought together students and industry professionals, offering hands-on experience that extended far beyond the classroom.
Students involved in the film described the experience as both professionally formative and deeply personal. Clemson graduate Tyler Herrman, ‘25, who stars as Hudson, told The Tiger that the experience itself was the greatest takeaway.
“Being part of a real movie production, with so many moving parts, was incredible,” Herrman said. “Now I can say I’ve done that, and I’m armed with knowledge and experience I can take with me forever. On a personal level, making a movie together is an insane bonding experience. I made relationships on this project that will last a lifetime.”
Junior world cinema major Emma Hamrick, who co-stars as Sarah Grace, emphasized the persistence required throughout the filmmaking process. “There will always be problems, and there will always be a way they get solved,” Hamrick said. “Filmmaking is not easy, but we do it because we love it.”
From behind the camera, associate director Sharbel Feghali, a senior world cinema major, said the production’s scale set it apart from typical student projects.
“Seeing how all the pieces move on such a big production was unique,” Feghali said. “Being behind the scenes and watching everything come together, I learned a lot.”
Junior world cinema major Gabi Balleza concurred. Balleza said that working in the art department taught her that “there’s no place that you can’t create, or can’t transform into something amazing.” Cole Jersek, a junior world cinema major who worked on the grip and electric crew, said that the experience had given him confidence in the idea of “just jumping in” next time he has an opportunity to work on a movie set. “I think actually working day-in and day-out, long hours, really built up my endurance,” he continued.
Industry professionals involved in the film also highlighted the value of the experience for students preparing to enter the industry. Actor Matthew Settle, whose past work includes “Gossip Girl” and “Band of Brothers,” praised Clemson’s approach to student filmmaking.
“The brilliant thing is that this gives film students at Clemson University credit before they leave school,” Settle said. “Not everybody gets their break, so how genius of the University to help students earn that first credit.”
Lisa Melençon, Ph.D., chair of Clemson’s department of interdisciplinary studies, emphasized that the film would not have been possible without the “vision and passion” of the students involved. That passion was evident throughout the night as students constantly emphasized their love for the world cinema major. In her pre-screening speech, associate director and senior world cinema major Diana Wells called the program “the best thing to ever happen to me.”
Keith Adams Jr., former Clemson running back and student, also spoke about the importance of collaboration. Despite the long days, he said that “interacting with everybody and getting closer with people you’ve just met is such a cool thing to do. They put us in a room with a camera and we’re building chemistry through filming a movie. I’d do this a billion times over.”
Justus Tanner, a senior world cinema major, agrees. “When you have people around you who are passionate about what they do, it’s going to lead to your best work,” he said. “Their talent pushes you to places you didn’t even know you could go.”
The film serves as an homage to the film industry and to educators, mentors and creatives who foster a deep love of cinema. The project celebrates filmmaking as both an art form and a labor of passion, striking a comedic tone as it encourages viewers to pursue creative paths with commitment and curiosity.
For Sokolow, that passion is personal. He shared that his journey into filmmaking and, ultimately, to Clemson, was shaped by his decision to move from New York to South Carolina to follow the woman he loved, Fowler.
“When you do something for love, anything can happen,” Sokolow said.
Fowler echoed that sentiment, explaining that her involvement in the project stemmed from a similar place of trust and commitment. “Love makes you do crazy things,” she said, noting that she agreed to write the script after her husband asked her to take on the role. “Dreams don’t work unless you do.”
Inside the Brooks Center, the audience’s response matched the excitement of the red carpet outside. Laughter and applause filled the theater throughout the screening, creating an atmosphere befitting a Hollywood film premiere.
By the film’s conclusion, the crowd’s enthusiastic applause reflected a shared pride in the collaborative effort behind the production. The audience cheered as their classmates, professors and friends appeared in the credits alongside the industry professionals.
Following the premiere, Sokolow reflected on the moment as he looked out at the audience. “Looking around at all their faces,” he said, “that’s why we do this.”
A key component of the premiere’s professional presentation was the involvement of Cadency, Clemson’s student-run branding agency. Cadency students Jenna Marshall and Marin Sinclair played a key role in conceptualizing the school mascots featured in the film, as well as creating the movie’s logo.
Led by Jackie Herr and Katie Hildebrand, Cadency also ensured that the film’s premiere reflected industry standards, emphasizing the importance of presentation, audience engagement and cohesive branding.
The premiere of “Student Film: The Movie” also marked a turning point for Clemson’s world cinema program as a whole. The program recently secured a second grant, signaling continued institutional support and momentum for future student-led projects.
With plans already underway for the next production, faculty and students alike are eager to build on the success of the premiere. The additional funding will allow the department to expand experiential learning opportunities and further integrate industry-level practices into the film production curriculum.
As Clemson continues to invest in hands-on education and creative collaboration, “Student Film: The Movie” stands as a defining example of what is possible when passion, education and opportunity align. Every day, Sokolow said, was about raising the bar and seeing the students jump over it.
