‘Trenzas’ student film forges on despite COVID-19
Written by Becca Wolfe, Images courtesy of “Trenzas”
The year 2020 brought forth an assortment of trials and tribulations for everyone in its path. For students, the transition from on-campus to online was anything from easy. However, as creators, we have learned to adapt to these new circumstances.
One department in particular has completely adapted their way of producing content through these pressing times. The film and television department has placed rules and limitations on sets. This includes safety precautions such as limited numbers of people on set, mask enforcement and an overall stricter shooting environment.
That being said, one of the films that has made it through their shooting days and can speak on working during a global pandemic is “Trenzas.” “Trenzas” is the story of a young girl growing up under the expectations set out by her traditional hispanic family. It includes lines such as “too old for kisses,” to show while words can have good intentions they can still impact adolescent minds. The film depicts the impacts of everything we are shown as a young child. “Trenzas” can stand alone from other films just by the dialogue itself — it’s entirely in Spanish.
The producer and writer, Natalie Veater, is a fourth-year film and television student. Veater said she found it surprising and emotional the amount of support gained for this film. When it came to the new COVID-19 procedures, Veater said she found that, as a producer, there were more elements such as preparing each meal in sealed wrapping, maintaining social distance between crew members and providing not only safety for her acts but also reassurance for their parents as well.
As a writer, Veater encourages others to “go back to their roots.” The film is something that Veater is passionate about herself. Another element to the film is that they partnered with an organization called the MAIA IMPACT School in which they raised an estimated $800 for. The MAIA IMPACT School is an organization that works to educate and empower young and indigenous women in Guatemala.
While the film had minimal setbacks with pandemic, the crew was able to finish shooting within one-and-half days. The crew filmed in Denver, Colo. over weeks one and two of the 2021 winter quarter. They had two filming locations and maintained isolation and social distancing while doing so.
Overall, Natalie has only positive things to say about this experience and is extremely grateful for both her actors and crew. To learn more about the film and follow post-production, visit their Indiegogo page.
