CSI-TV’s newest show Student Film Series begins the spring semester with Mohamed Alasri’s Hear Me Out. CSI Today caught up with Alasri, a senior Cinema Studies and Media major, who credits the discipline with the chance to delve deeply into the art of filmmaking, media analysis, and storytelling, to discuss the project, viewable now on CSI-TV.

Inspired by filmmakers such as Peter McKinnon and Christopher Nolan for their creative storytelling, technical expertise, intricate narratives and visual artistry, a few of Alasri’s favorite movies are The Dark Knight, Interstellar, and Blade Runner. Each of these films has left a lasting impression on him with their compelling stories, stunning cinematography, and innovative approaches to filmmaking.

See below the full conversation with student filmmaker Mohamed Alasri:

CSI Today: What was Hear Me Out created for?  Was it for a school project or a freelance project?

Mohamed Alasri: Hear Me Out was created as a school project, specifically as the final assignment for one of my classes. It was a culmination of everything we learned throughout the course, allowing me to show my skills and creative vision.

CSIT: What inspired you to create this film and tell this particular story?

MA: What inspired me to create this film was the struggle I faced in coming up with an idea for films to make. That process itself sparked the concept for the project. It highlighted just how challenging it can be, especially in a school setting, to develop an idea that’s both appropriate and captivating. This journey of trying to find the “perfect” concept became the core of my inspiration, shaping the story and message of the film.

CSIT: What was your favorite part(s) of making the film?

MA: My favorite part of making the film was the creative process of brainstorming ideas, bringing the story to life, and collaborating with others. I also enjoyed the hands-on aspects, like filming and editing, where I could see my vision take shape and evolve. There’s something satisfying about watching all the pieces come together to create a finished product.

CSIT: How do you feel you’ve grown as a filmmaker in your time at CSI?

MA: During my time at CSI, I’ve grown significantly as a filmmaker by improving my skills and mastering various techniques. I’ve become more confident in storytelling, cinematography, and editing. Additionally, I’ve learned how to approach projects more creatively and efficiently, while also gaining a deeper understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of filmmaking.

CSIT: What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers at CSI?

MA: My advice to aspiring filmmakers at CSI is to take the time to find your own path and embrace your unique creative journey. Explore different aspects of cinematography and storytelling to discover what best fits with you. Don’t hesitate to connect with others because collaboration is a powerful tool in filmmaking. Building relationships with peers and professionals can open doors to new opportunities and fresh ideas. Keep learning, experimenting, and growing as both an artist and a storyteller.

CSIT: Anything else we should know as we screen this film?

MA: I’d like to emphasize the importance of connecting with the audience on a personal level. When screening this film, I hoped viewers would relate to the struggles of creativity and the challenges of finding inspiration. It reflects the ups and downs that many of us face in any artistic process, and I want the film to spark conversations about persistence and the beauty of the journey itself.

Check out Hear Me Out below, and be sure to subscribe to CSI-TV for updates on new shows premiering each month.