The 1920s was the era of silent films and 25 cent movie tickets. Films were limited by the technology available, but what if they had something as simple as a drone camera? What do you think would be possible? A group of students from Ms. Jessica Spinelli’s Drone Operator Preparation class took that what if to the test! The class is entirely focused on students learning to operate drones, from the basics to getting dynamic shots. The class created a video, “Murder,” which was shot entirely with a drone and styled like a 1920s silent film.

The silent film approach was a style born out of the limitations of the time, since audio could not be recorded at the time. It was all about the camera work and what is on screen. If a drone was able to be used back then, it would’ve greatly complimented the style. The drone was used to give movement to the shots, like moving the camera in a circle, or zooming in and out.

The film was made by sophomores Jyan Rhobes Diaz, Daryl Vitiello, and junior Kayla Youseff. Kayla piloted the drone, while Jyan and Daryl acted as two characters. This project had a simple vision, and that is what allowed it to shine best. Even the old style still has its’ own flair. It allows for just as much, if not more, than a production made with more modern forms of presentation!