What started as a passive interest in filmmaking a little over a year ago has blossomed into a raging passion and a new career path for Snyder High School Senior Collin Mitten. He has many credits and achievements to his name, including award-winning actor, senior class president, athletic trainer, and now, he can add film director and producer to his resume.
Last year, Collin gained a great deal of interest in filmmaking and produced a narrative film and a documentary. Theatre Arts Teacher, Clark Reed, said, “This was a learning experience for all of us as we had many more failures than successes, but with failure comes knowledge.”
His work brought him to the film set of SHS Alumni and current ACU film student Brody Jasso, who showed Collin the ropes of organizing and creating a professional level film set. With a bit of encouragement from Mr. Reed, Collin began his journey of producing a professional quality film.
“A student like Collin comes along once every so often, and when you see a special kid like him, you make every effort to nurture and grow his passion,” said Reed.
Collin took his film, Delusions, from start to finish. After developing the idea, he wrote a screenplay, solicited feedback, and adjusted. He researched equipment, found actors, directed, and edited the film. “Collin truly did the work of a true Hollywood producer and director,“ said Reed.
Over eighty people were involved in the project. Friends, family, community members, and students served as actors, background actors, and crew. “It was a collaborative effort. We shot the film at local businesses and restaurants. Students, teachers, and community members volunteered their time, money, and effort to bring my vision to life,” said Mitten.
Patrick Malone, an SHS Alumni of the SHS Drama Department and current Hollywood actor, played a principal role in the film. “Patrick is a huge friend of SHS and a huge fan of the SHS drama department,” said Reed. “We are grateful for his influence and expertise.”
Excitement filled the hallways upon hearing the announcement that the film advanced to the UIL State Finals, a historic event for Snyder High School.
“While shooting the film, we often stayed up until 3 or 4 am. It was exhausting, but advancing to state makes it worthwhile,” said Baylee Green, Second Assistant Director/Producer and SHS Senior. “Seeing filmmaking first hand sparked my interest in film production, especially broadcasting.”
“I feel like all of our work has paid off,” said Isabel Rocha, First Assistant Director/Producer and SHS Junior. “I’m so proud of Collin; he has worked so hard for this.”
Delusions will advance to the State Finals in Austin for a world premiere event on February 23rd. Snyder High School will provide an opportunity for the community to view the film after the contest and will announce details when available.
“The generosity and support of our community, family, and friends that believed in me, a high school student, to make this film - it’s hard to put into words how much this means to me,” said Mitten. “Don’t let people discourage you. Your dream can never be too big.”