By Christopher Piacentile & Daniel Flores ‘19
Filmmaking or film production is an art learned by those who have a imaginative and artistic mindset to display on the big screens. Not many have taken the time or patience to develop this passion. However, there is one student present in our school that is capable withstand the pressure and stress. That student is an young man named Watson Jones, a current freshmen attending Salesian High School and graduating with the class of ‘22. With the many episodes uploaded virtually every two weeks and future upcoming episodes, Watson Jones has made a name for himself. Given his hardwork and creativeness, Watson Jones has helped put a smile on those dreading the morning announcements. In cooperation with Kevin Dwyer, Chief Director of A.M Salesian, Watson Jones has been able to create and distribute his work.
Below is an exclusive interview I had with Watson Jones, himself where we discuss the overall future and development on his production brand, Watson Jones Productions.
Interviewer
Is it true that Watson Jones Productions is going extinct because of budgetary issues?
Mr. Jones
No. When I make a video I do not profit from it. I only profit from the experience that I gain by creating the films and watching others enjoy my work. It was simply, for comedic purposes, what I want is to take a break and recollect my thoughts to create more films for the school.
Interviewer
How did you get involved in filmography?
Mr. Jones
Well, it started a year ago when I decided to get into the hobby. I was on vacation and my cousins wanted me to record a video of them “fake fighting”. I agreed and I recorded the fight. Later on, I did some editing and added special effects and the rest is history.
Interviewer
What advice do you have for students who may be interested in filmography?
Mr. Jones
I personally believe that no matter what you are working on, you should be creative in it. Think outside of the box, make the ordinary, the unordinary. Work hard at what you love and soon you will prosper in it. That sort of deal.
Interviewer
What motivates you and the Watson Jones Brand?
Mr. Jones
Well, what motivates me overall is seeing other students enjoy my work. They are the main reason, and plus I love making films. The Watson Jones Brand exist because of them, who else would I make it for. In doing this, I hope my efforts are not wasted.
Interviewer
Where does the Watson Jones Brand plan to expand in the future?
I plan to increase film production and create better quality films. However, It can proved to be difficult with school and normal life in the way. That is so far, what I plan to take my brand.
Interviewer
What defines the Watson Jones Brand?
Mr. Jones
The Watson Jones Brand is simply my personal extracurricular activity outside of school. And it is meant to entertain students and most importantly be fun for everyone.
Interviewer
What programs do you use to edit their projects?
Mr. Jones
In making my films in fact, I use multiple video editing programs for my projects. Such as: IMovie, Enlight Videoleap Video Editor, YouStar, KineMaster, Stick Nodes-Animator, and Intro Designer Lite which helps creates intros for my films.
Interviewer
What are your thoughts on the current stage of the filming industry?
Mr. Jones
I don’t have much thought at all. Believe it or not I don’t watch movies [Chuckles]. However, it always intrigued me on how they make movies. I enjoy especially Star Wars and the Marvel movies on their special effects.
Interviewer
When will the next Watson Jones video come about?
Mr. Jones
The next film I plan to release will probably be around January. So please be patient. Since, winter break is almost here I want to take a moment away from producing films and focusing on my family and my schoolwork.
Interviewer
Anything extra?
Mr. Jones
Uh, yea. I want to see my friends and my new brothers in this school to be happy. From that alone is what gives me fulfillment and push me to do more. That is all I have to say.
This exclusive interview with Watson Jones was not only intriguing but heart-warming. In a way, Watson Jones could possibly be the foundation that helps kids get comfortable in their surroundings and show off their talents. Even though Watson Jones is an freshmen, he has shown his courage and devotion into his work, by distributing it to all of Salesian High School. As a result, many from all grades have praised Watson on his work. In fact, his popularity is so high in some have even referred to him as the “King of Salesian” or “Salesian’s Finest”. With Watson Jones determination and example, he will be able to throw this school forward by inspiring others to be like him. This goes to show you, that Watson Jones is an one of a kind and certainly Salesian’s finest.
The Salesian Spectator 