Fifteen De Montfort University (DMU) Film Studies students enjoyed a blockbuster of a field trip when they were given the chance to visit the star-studded streets of Hollywood, California.
The third year students, some of whom were also studying Media and Communication BA (Hons), were able to immerse themselves in fan culture, visit a renowned fan convention, and even meet celebrities on the red carpet of a premiere - all in aid of their ‘Audiences and Fandom’ module.
The trip was part of the #DMUglobal programme, which offers students the chance to enjoy an exciting international experience during their studies, where they can network, broaden their horizons and add a global perspective to their degree work.
Michael James, a Film Studies BA (Hons) student, said: “The trip was the perfect opportunity to engage with fans and understand their fan culture.
“Lectures are always useful in terms of learning and researching how these groups come together, but being able to participate gave us students a different level of understanding than we previously had.”
The primary focus of the trip was to visit ‘WonderCon’, an internationally recognised comic book, science fiction and motion picture convention, where fans gather to dress up and celebrate their favoured media productions.
Matthew Jones, lecturer in Cinema and Television History, was amongst the four DMU staff members who joined the students in Hollywood.
He said: “At WonderCon, the students were able to immerse themselves in one specific type of fan community and to experience it first-hand.
“This brings the subject to life in a way that isn't possible on campus and gives them direct experience of the material they have previously only studied theoretically.
“Our extra time in LA allowed them to meet other film and media fans at key pilgrimage sites, such as Disneyland, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, the Paramount Pictures studio tour and the Hollywood Forever cemetery.”
Whilst some activities were planned, the students were also given the opportunity to independently explore Hollywood for themselves.
James Stephens, who also studies Film Studies BA (Hons), said: “On our first night in Hollywood, we witnessed the Furious 7 premiere and managed to get pictures of the entire cast of the film – we even saw a concert performed for free of the soundtrack to the film.
“A few days after, I saw a group of people huddled around a tour bus, so I looked up to see who it was - none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger was talking to the crowd. It was amazing, and seeing a hero of mine is something I'll never forget.
“If other students get offered this chance to go to Hollywood, they should grab it with both hands and with their eyes wide open. It's a once in a lifetime trip to be able to go with your university – and your friends - so make the most of it!”
Posted on Wednesday 6 May 2015