Student Snapshot – Camila Bentancur

Introduce yourself briefly and tell me a little bit about your background. Are you an MFA or BFA?
I’m Camila Bentancur, MFA Writer. I was born in Uruguay, studied and worked in films in Brazil, Bolivia and Mexico, and most recently got a Fulbright scholarship to pursue my dreams in the US
Who is your favorite Filmmaker and What is your favorite movie?
The list is long. But Close, Two of us, A Fantastic Woman and I Dream in Another Language are on the top. As a queer Latina myself, I’m a big fan of LGBTQ+ movies that feel genuine and portray a historically silenced group.
What are you currently working on?
Before studying at the College of Motion Picture Arts, I specialized in Narrative for LGBTQ+ Video games. Lately, I’ve been writing more feature-length films and TV pilots. I’m currently working on a lesbian Drama about the displacement of Indigenous communities.
What does your typical day look like?
In the morning, I meet my classmates at the writers’ room simulation, where we develop an episode for a TV show with our professor as the show runner, assigning each of us a role in the process just like it works in the industry. In the afternoon, I work on my notes for the class where we learn how to do coverage, and late at night, I organize screenings and Q&As with famous directors as part of the Hispanic Film Festival that I’m directing this year.
What has been the best part of film school so far?
My professors and classmates. We created a strong bond and I consider them a second family, now that my own is so far away. I know some of the friends I made here will be there for the rest of my life, and for someone who values emotional connections so much, that’s crucial and heart-warming
Which faculty member has made the greatest impression on you and how?
I can’t choose just one. As a woman in a male-dominated field, EmFaye Cobb made me feel safe holding cameras and heavy equipment. Geaux Francois gave me confidence and continuous guidance. Kyle Arrington gave me an authentic perspective of what the industry looks like. I’m grateful that I crossed paths with all of them.
What do you think someone applying to the program should know about the FSU Film School?
For those who want to join, and for all filmmakers in general, be true to your voice and support each other. You’ll meet wonderful human beings and collaborators who will champion your vision, be open and willing to work together, get to know them better, and create unique stories but also good memories
Favorite Film School Moment?
The rotation while we were shooting our first short films was fun. But I’d say the jokes and the laughter in the writers’ room when giving each other feedback will stick in my mind forever. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of writers, honestly
It’s late, you’re at the Film School working on something you need to finish before tomorrow: where are you and who are you with?
I’m probably in the room with the eight of us asking random questions such as “If you had a superpower, what would it be?” as we finish our pages. Or at Gabi’s or Denise’s home collaborating on an episode or pitch