Through the Stockade Works Access Youth (SWAY) Initiative, Ellenville Junior/Senior High School students brought the magic of "Back to the Future" to life in a mock film production—gaining real-world experience and networking opportunities with industry professionals!
Guided by Stockade Works professionals, students had a hand in every stage of bringing 1985 to life. They created detailed character mood boards while researching authentic 1980s fashion, hand-painted "Battle of the Bands" banners and homecoming signs to transform their school into Hill Valley High circa 1985, and crafted period-accurate textbooks with brown paper covers personalized with character names and rock band doodles—just like real '80s students would have done!
The SWAY Initiative connects students directly with film professionals including cinematographers, sound mixers, grips, costume designers, and producers who brought years of industry experience. These mentors provided networking opportunities and real-world insights into film industry careers. From script breakdown to the final "action!," students worked as a real film crew—operating professional cameras, managing sound equipment, and directing scenes throughout Ellenville Jr/Sr High School, with the climactic "Battle of the Bands" filmed on the auditorium stage.
Take a blast to the past by watching their mock shoot here: https://tinyurl.com/3p98rss5
Time travel has never looked so good!