Name: Ali Kane
Year: Junior, Class of 2013
Hometown: Sturbridge, MA
Campus Involvements: PRIDE, Queer Women’s Group, Stereotypes Campaign Coordinator
Interests: Media Production (primarily film), crafting, food, Audrey Hepburn
HC:What inspired to start the “Accept People, Reject Stereotypes” campaign?
AK:I had seen an image on tumblr with a guy holding a sign with his personal slogan against stereotypes. I bookmarked it, hoping to do something with it in the future. When Laramie Project came around last year, I thought it would be a nice campaign to coincide with it. While last year’s was a success, there were a lot of things I knew could have been improved. Plus, so many people were inspired by it, I knew it wasn’t over. That is what made me go around for a second try this semester. Unfortunately there were some snags in printing, but PRIDE is going to host a major launch for the campaign. I have high hopes.
HC: What is “Hollow Skull Films” and why did you found it?
AK: Hollow Skull is a film production company to foster the education and artistic exploration of young filmmakers. The co-founder/my best friend Alex Hagen had started it without a real focus. However, as his move to California approached, I jumped on board, wanting to make HSF a real company. It took a while to find a true focus. To really define what we are trying to do. We wanted this to be a company that supported people like ourselves. There is no way for young filmmakers to get funding for their projects or get hands-on experience on a professional set. HSF would provide that. Now, we have done four productions since HSF’s establishment, hosted 1 film festival, and multiple spin-off projects (like the HerCampus video). Even though I’m abroad and he’s in Cali, we have all the foundations to keep the company going. Hopefully, by the time I graduate and move out there, we will have enough funds and support to begin our first feature film.
HC: What has your favorite Bentley memory been thus far?
AK:Probably when I won my BUFFY (Bentley University Film Festival) for “Best Director” of “Life is Fine.” It was the first movie I directed and wrote on my own. Alex had won it the year before and it was just really special to be his successor. Plus, all of my good friends were there, many who had been part of the production. That was the moment when I really felt it was “my time” – no longer following Alex around, but able to do things on my own. I think that is what really made our relationship grow as professionals and as friends. It also solidified that film production really was where I wanted to be. I’ve never been more passionate about something and it shows. That is what really counts. The BUFFY was proof that I was recognized for all of that. I couldn’t ask for anything more.