More than 55 students from the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and surrounding school districts gained firsthand experience in the growing motion picture industry this summer by learning the process of writing, directing, acting and editing films. The film camp, held at McKinley Middle Academic Magnet School in July, also included teachers.

The final project was an original movie, “UnNerd Of,” the story of a student who learns the perils of popularity and fame. The 30-minute movie was written, directed, produced and edited by students, who also acted in the film. 
 
“UnNerd Of” is an example of the excellent work being produced by the fast-growing Louisiana film community and the partnerships developing with public education as students prepare for high-tech careers in specialized fields.   With the help of local film/TV producer Aaron Williams of Louisiana Arts & Entertainment, students learned about the film process.
 
At the premiere December 10, students arrived at the school in a limousine, walked the red carpet and received Oscar-style statues for their hard work.
 
The event was hosted by actress Debra Wilson, best known for her work on the show “MADtv.”