Milan Short Film

ASM Film Masterclass Wraps Production

ASM’s Film Masterclass project has successfully completed production on Our First, an original short film shot entirely on location across Milan. The initiative brought together ASM Film students, professional crew members, and actors in a unique collaboration that bridged classroom learning with real-world filmmaking.

The cast included U.S. television actor Evan Hall (Orange Is the New Black), son of former ASM Director of Admissions Cynthia Hall, who joined the project in a key supporting role. The film’s cinematographer, whose portfolio includes major brand campaigns and music videos for artists such as The Kolors and Negramaro, provided students with invaluable exposure to professional production standards and creative workflows.

We were also delighted to welcome back ASM graduate Olivier Sarrailh (Class of 2018) as the film’s sound designer, mentoring students through the process of sound creation. The cast additionally featured Grade 3 student Oscar Yanev, son of board member Andrew Yanev, whose focus and imagination brought authenticity and emotion to one of the film’s central roles.

Across the four-day shoot, students rotated through camera, lighting, production design, and continuity departments, developing technical skills and a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of filmmaking. The project was made possible through the support of ASM’s Fund for Excellence Program, highlighting how authentic, interdisciplinary experiences can inspire creativity and professional growth.

Post-production is now underway as Our First prepares for festival submission later this year.

Thank you to Project Leader: Paul Rickwood, ASM Film Teacher
for proposing this fantastic opportunity for our students and funded by the Fund for Excellence!