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There’s a common misconception that a student film is inherently inferior to a more commercial production, one that causes many well-crafted works of cinema to go unnoticed due to the people making them not being “professional”. Granted, a student may have neither the resources nor the experience to create something on par with what an established studio may have little difficulty in constructing, but that does not instantly deem their work as something without worth. In fact, a student film can often be more authentic and personal than what’s usually produced by those with prominent careers in the film industry. For proof of this, there is the subject of today’s discussion, the sports drama “Time for a Champion”.
The film revolves around Elena, an introverted, fiercely independent, homeless teenage girl from Mexico, who is adopted by an American family in Pharr, Texas and enrolled into high school, where she struggles with her own personal demons and the constant bullying by her peers for being “different”. The only chance she has at survival, the only way she knows how to survive, is to run. She finds herself running away from her bullies and onto the track, where she catches the attention of her gym teacher who offers her a position on the track team. After some convincing, Elena agrees to join the team, thinking she finds sanctuary from her isolated state by being with others who enjoy doing what she does, run. However, that is not the case. After joining the team, she is faced with even further hardships from her fellow teammates who cast her aside. As Elena continues to excel at running, her teammates attempt to get rid of her. When the team’s plans fail, two of Elena’s teammates leave the team, causing the bullying to end. Elena finally feels like she belongs somewhere in the school, and with the statewide championship around the corner, she never felt happier. However, although Elena finally found a place of her own, she is still isolated as the girl with no friends. With the championship getting closer and closer, Elena must find the faith and courage in order to do what it takes to be a true champion.
“Time for a Champion” was produced by the PSJA Southwest Film Society, a filmmaking group established at PSJA Southwest Early College High School in Pharr, Texas. A prominent faculty member at the high school, Barry Glasser, writes the film and directs alongside Sarvelio Carreon. In addition, the cast is made up of those who were students and faculty at the school during the time of production, with the lead role of Elena going to Sheila Martinez.
“Time for a Champion” is a shining example of the best that student films have to offer. While it may not have the production values of a major motion picture, it nonetheless has the heart and emotional core that makes such films fulfilling experiences. With poignant themes and believable characters that just about anyone can identify with, this is a must watch, and those curious to see how can find the film available for on-demand viewing here.
