A group of Year 12 Media students had a magical visit to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour last week and caught a behind the scenes glimpse into the world of film making.
After the introduction to the tour our students were ushered into a high security area, where an educational workshop: ‘Script to Screen’ would take place. Ms Williams and Mr Robinson went along too and Ms Williams went on to explain: “We were informed we were part of the privileged few who were allowed to be this close to authentic items from the ‘Harry Potter’ film series, there were colourful mood boards, rails of costumes, shelves full of props, genuine whiteboard models and even a lifelike prosthetic of Fenrir Greyback’s hairy chest!
“Students learnt the processes involved in taking a script from the written word to screen. We were fortunate to see a genuine script from the ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ film. Louis Guinto, Russell Idos and Mr Robinson performed the scene when the children visited Hagrid’s hut. We then looked at how the script is transformed into storyboard – the crucial role they play in the filmmaking process. We were shown the intricate plans of Hagrid’s Hut that are sketched and shown to the director, before they are developed into whiteboard models and finally a finished set! The sheer size of the character Hagrid was brought to life when Hagrid’s giant pants were placed against Francis Boakye – they completely swamped him.
“After the lesson we returned to the tour: We explored Gryffindor common room, the boys’ dormitory, Hagrid’s hut, Potion’s classroom and Professor Umbridge’s office at the Ministry of Magic. As well as Dumbledore’s office and discover never-before-seen treasures. Ambled down the famous cobbles of Diagon Alley. Hopped on board the majestic Hogwart’s Express. The highlight of the trip was a giant model replica of Hogwart’s School with lighting that changed depending on the time of day.
“We saw iconic props from the films, including the Griffin, Harry’s Nimbus 2000 and Hagrid’s motorcycle. We learnt how creatures were brought to life with green screen effects, animatronics and life-sized models. We couldn’t help resist having a go ourselves on green screen effects: driving a flying car and getting to wear the legendary cape as we flew through the busy London streets. We were disappointed to say goodbye but had tremendous trip!
“Besides the fun and excitement of exploring the studio, it was an invaluable opportunity to see the possible career pathways. This inspired the students, to see that there are a host of jobs available in one of Britain’s rapidly growing industries – that is thriving despite the financial uncertainty – this gave the students hope for the future, whether they wanted to become costume designers, scaffolders, make-up artist or caterers; they realised that a career within the film industry was possible and rewarding.“
