Embracing Creativity with the MFA in Film and Digital Technology
Students in Chatham’s Master of Fine Arts in Film and Digital Technology (MFAFDT) program are at their root storytellers. While usually behind the scenes of the story, we decided to bring them center-stage to hear their stories, celebrate their works and see what’s in store for the future. Meet Darrian Willis ‘23 and Jamal Deakings ‘23 below!
Darrian Willis, MFAFDT ‘23
(he/him)
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Darrian Willis did not know he wanted to be a filmmaker when he came into his undergraduate program in music at Central State University. Eventually switching to studying broadcast media, he first got his hands on a camera through his professor and mentor Romeo Reese who got him into production jobs during school. A graduate of Chatham’s Master of Fine Arts in Film and Digital Technology (MFAFDT), Reese inspired Willis to pursue the same degree.
“I saw what he was able to do with his degree and all that he knew. Even though he was much older than me, and much more experienced, he took me as a competitor from the day we met. I always appreciated the respect that he gave me and that made me want to follow in his footsteps.”
After spending some time in the field after graduation from his undergrad, Willis decided to seriously pursue filmmaking and enrolled in Chatham’s MFAFDT program last fall. Focusing on documentary-style productions, he has already gained invaluable storytelling skills.
“We’re basically learning how to make our own films and look deeper than the entertainment value of the story. Everything that you’re seeing on screen is an artificial creation with a purpose, to get a reaction from the viewer. You’re learning how to go deeper than just the surface of the film itself.”
Now in his second semester, he has found how much he appreciates the small cohort of his program and the ability to work closely with professors to develop personally interesting projects. Last semester, he had the opportunity to collaborate with classmates on a project called “In Tune,” where he was able to return to his roots as a musician and use clips of himself playing instruments as part of the video.
“I’m in such a different place from where I started, as a music major at Central State. Now several years later, I’m in grad school studying film. When I went to college, I had no camera experience and now I have a greater idea of what I want my outcome to be. The unique perspective alone makes this experience exciting for me.”
After graduation, he hopes to be a filmmaker and teach with the intent to give back some of the knowledge that he has acquired in the program.
“I’m inspired each day by my desire to create and to have something to leave behind for other people to enjoy. If you love being a creator and you love telling stories, then you’ll love Chatham’s MFA film program. It’s at the heart of all we do as filmmakers.”
Jamal Deakings, MFAFDT ‘23
(he/him)
Jamal Deakings has never been one to take it slow. Starting his career as a journalism major at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio he quickly found that the program was not as fast-paced as what he was looking for. After inspiration from a friend, he switched to a major in film production. He quickly became immersed in his work as he began working on the feature film “Unlucky” the next summer, where he discovered his passion for editing. After graduating with honors, he didn’t miss a beat and formed a production company with a former classmate with a mission to give young creatives a platform to express themselves. Simultaneously, he interned at Animal, a company that produces major commercials, and further developed his editing skills. From there, he went on to create his own filmmaking and photography business but still found himself wanting to do more. After some thought, he decided to pursue his MFA in Film and Digital Technology at Chatham.
“I’m just the type of person who once I set my mind on something, I do it. So, when I started looking at grad programs in Pittsburgh, Chatham was super receptive to my questions and application, so I came here. I came to this program to be a better writer because writing is the foundation of making films.”
Now in his second semester at Chatham, he has found that the small cohort and classrooms in the MFAFDT program have allowed him to collaborate, have fun and work closely with professors.
“The program is really dope; the professors have such valuable knowledge. At the same time, this is the first college setting where my professors really want me to succeed. They will really work with you if you have stuff going on in your life and will help you overcome it. They go out of their way to make sure you do well.”
Currently, he is working on a cartoon he has had in the works for a few years and a pitch for a pitch event being hosted through the program. When he’s not in the classroom, he still acts as a filmmaker, spending his energy doing anything that sparks his creativity like jogging or listening to music.
“As a filmmaker you have to embrace it and make making things your lifestyle. I encourage anyone interested in film to continue to educate themselves and have fun. When you do film, it’s best to not overthink it, you want to be like a two-year-old just letting your creativity flow. I like to think of my work as using everything that’s in my mind and getting it all out through creativity.”
After graduation, he has no intent of slowing down and plans to continue his photography and filmmaking business, getting his work into more spaces and being creative in any way possible.
“In Tune,” a video made by Darrian in collaboration with classmates during the Fall 2021 semester.
“Escape Land,” a video made by Jamal in collaboration with Darrian in the Fall 2021 semester.
Curious about exploring Chatham’s Master of Fine Arts in Film and Digital Technology? You can learn explore course highlights, admission requirements, and unique program offerings when you visit our website.