How Our Summer Workshop Became a New Series at Angel Studios
A Summer Tradition in Filmmaking
Every summer, Sneak On The Lot proudly hosts an inspiring gathering of up to 20 dedicated teachers and enthusiastic students in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Our immersive week-long filmmaking workshop has been a staple for 25 years. These workshops are the most effective method for establishing successful filmmaking programs in high schools across the nation.
When participants arrive, many of them are filled with uncertainty and self-doubt about their filmmaking abilities. They come with the hopes of launching new video production programs at their schools or enhancing existing skills. However, by the end of the week, the line between teachers and seasoned professionals blurs. This transformation reflects the collaborative spirit and hard work put in by everyone involved. Over 25 years, we have been fortunate to receive stellar feedback, achieving a perfect 5-star rating.
The Challenge of Organizing
Organizing these workshops is no small feat. The workload is substantial for both facilitators and participants. We work intensely for 12 hours a day, mimicking the demanding hours typical in the film industry. This dedication often far exceeds what most individuals are used to in their regular jobs. Surprisingly, we have never received a single complaint from participants. The enthusiasm surrounding the filmmaking process is infectious. Participants dive in wholeheartedly, matching the dedication of the film professionals.
We ensure that only a select number of film experts join us to guarantee the production's success. The reality is simple: if workshop participants do not give their utmost effort, the entire workshop could fail.
Beyond The Medal: A New Project
In 2023, our summer workshop culminated in the production of a powerful short film titled Beyond The Medal. This project aimed to create a compelling narrative centered around a Medal of Honor story. It draws inspiration from the acclaimed HBO series, Band Of Brothers.
The film was produced in collaboration with Angel Studios. It serves as a proof of concept for a new series we envisioned. The result was an 18-minute film that is action-packed and emotionally resonant, designed to tug at the heartstrings of viewers. If you have a moment, we encourage you to watch the film through the link below.
Rekindling Patriotism Through Storytelling
In today’s rapidly changing world, the spirit of patriotism seems to be diminishing. It is crucial that we work to rekindle it. Beyond The Medal is envisioned as a dramatic, scripted anthology television series. It offers a deeply personal exploration into the lives of America’s military heroes. This series will cover significant conflicts, spanning from the Civil War to modern-day Afghanistan.
Each episode investigates the brave actions of soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airmen awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military accolade. Unlike traditional documentaries that present facts straightforwardly, this series dramatizes the events that precede these heroic deeds. This approach provides richer narratives and emotional portrayals of who these remarkable individuals were—not just a recounting of their actions.
In the spirit of the HBO series, Band of Brothers, Beyond The Medal aims to honor the legacy and bravery of these extraordinary individuals. We strive to ensure that their sacrifices and stories are remembered.
Collaborating with Exceptional Partners
To achieve a high level of accuracy and authenticity in the series, we recognized the need to collaborate with remarkable partners. Our first call was to our friend, Gerald R. Molen—an Oscar-winning producer known for his work on Stephen Spielberg's Schindler's List. His impressive filmography includes iconic titles like Jurassic Park and Minority Report. Gerald is one of the finest producers in the film industry, and his expertise in understanding what it takes to create great films is invaluable.
Next, we partnered with Gary Sinise, an Oscar-nominated actor. Gary has devoted a significant portion of his life to advocating for military personnel and their families through the Gary Sinise Foundation. His Hollywood legacy is remarkable, not just for his acting career, but also for his profound impact on veterans, first responders, and their families. Having Gary on board enhances the credibility of our project and serves as a powerful endorsement for the 20 million veterans and current service members of America’s armed forces.
With the support of the Angel Guild, we have selected the first ten Medal of Honor stories for the inaugural season of Beyond The Medal. Production is set to commence in 2025. We eagerly anticipate sharing the first episodes with audiences, aiming for them to air on Angel.com in the Fall.
Join Us for the Next Workshop
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the dedicated teachers and professionals who joined us in pulling a few all-nighters in the forest. Their tireless efforts helped bring these incredible stories to life on screen.
If you are a teacher or student interested in joining us for the next summer workshop, we invite you to learn more about the experience and participation here: Sneak On The Lot Workshop.
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