Student Snapshot: Chayse Banks
Chayse Banks
BFA Class of 2020
My name is Chayse Banks (like Chase Bank), and I am an upcoming BFA3 Production major! I currently specialize as a VFX Producer.
Who is your favorite Filmmaker and What is your favorite movie?
My favorite filmmaker is David Fincher because he has a gorgeous understanding of the camera’s perspective and how to utilize that in emotional beat progression. His cinematic aesthetic is so distinct and all his work is dark, psychological thrillers (which are my favorite genre). My favorite film is Whiplash, because I love its use of color and sound editing. Whiplash is the movie that made me want to pursue film as a career.
What are you currently working on?
I am working on VFX Producing two projects set to film in September at the moment. On the side I am learning how to code an app that allows our students to calculate how far off neutral exposure they are based on their camera settings.
What does your typical day look like?
As a student rep, I am often checking in on students most days to assess any concerns to address. Then I typically work on the VFX shows I am producing and help them prep for their shows. I enjoy CG modeling in my free time as well as building miniature lego cities. I am also an avid science documentary watcher.
What has been the best part of film school so far?
For me, it has been being part of this developing community within my class. Over the years we have really gotten to know and love working with one another, and I fully intend to continue keeping up all the relationships ive formed well beyond film school.
Which faculty member has made the greatest impression on you and how?
This is a difficult question because I have gotten so much guidance from many instructors here. I would have to say Jason Maurer has had the greatest impression. My dad passed away right before my orientation into film school, and Jason has always taken the time to check in on me. He gave me the inspiration to forge my own path in life, and courage to be an artist. His support has truly shaped my time at film school.
What do you think someone applying to the program should know about the FSU Film School?
Its never too late to get into film! I made all the projects for my reel in the 4 months before applying to film school. I was going to go into neurobiology at UF, but I applied and now I am so happy to be here.
Favorite Film School Moment?
My favorite film school moment’s are whenever my class yells the seminole chant whenever a professor enters the room.
On a more serious note I was exiting my f3 screening and a woman approached me afterwards and let me know that my film (which was about Postpartum Psychosis), had inspired her to talk about her Postpartum Depression with her son. Knowing I made a story that touched someone is what made this career choice worth it.