Introductory Note
Greetings, my name is Benjamin Cornell and I’ve been studying Film for these past two years. Through Freestyle Academy, I have cultivated my artistic talents and passions for editing, storytelling, cinematography, drawing, graphic design, and animation. Recently, I even got the chance to dabble with guitar. Although the program is amazing and keeps me busy, I have a plethora of other hobbies such as chess, reading, and hanging with friends. I’m all about learning something new every day, and I’m excited to share a few of my favorite film projects!
I believe that these films effectively display my growth and passion for the medium. The first is my most prized film, When Life Gives You Lemonade. It is a short narrative about two highschool boys trying to get into a party at all costs. I worked with a friend, Tyler Buhr, and together we wrote a twelve page screenplay, constructed a shot list, casted, filmed, and edited just between the two of us! On set, we shared the role of director while he operated the boom mic and I executed the cinematography. During my Junior year, I made my first narrative film, Contraband, about a student who starts an underground business where he produces and sells parking passes. I had a lot of struggles with production, but, as a result of working mostly solo, I am extremely proud of what I was able to produce. Finally, I have included a twilight-zone inspired film that I made with a buddy, Max Baler, for my Senior “Zenith” project. While this isn’t my favorite film, it shows my attempt at departing from the comedy genre, and I think it exhibits a heightened level of polish.
I would appreciate feedback on the way I tell stories. By this I mean the story itself, but also the way my editing, cinematography, and pre-production could be improved to more effectively tell my story. Any other feedback is welcome too, of course (feel free to roast me!).
Next year I am going to study philosophy and entrepreneurship at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. I hope to continue making films, whether it be freelance work or personal projects, but at the very least I’ll continue telling stories and playing with art!
Benjamin Cornell
(650) 421 – 5868
Films