A Letter to Our FEA Community Regarding Tragic Chapman Student Accident from Interim Department Chair, Adam Moore
Dear FEA Community,
As some of you may have seen, a terrible tragedy occurred on a USC student film production last week when a vehicle tipped over, claiming the life of the Chapman University cinematographer. The USC, Chapman, and greater film communities are deeply saddened, and we stand with them. Your faculty is processing this incident as you all are, and if you would like space to discuss in your classes, please let them know.
We all know that film sets can be inherently dangerous places. In this particular situation, there seem to have been serious lapses of judgement and best safety practices, perhaps made in pursuit of “getting the shot.” As details come forward, we will share them as a means for us in FEA to do better.
For those of you who are producing projects this semester, or who will be in future semesters, you will have a safety review with your faculty member, as well as with our production services staff members. Certain activities in your script might be denied due to explicit exclusions from our insurance carrier.
The reason we prohibit certain activities are for your safety, plain and simple. There are no ulterior motives. We are not trying to inhibit your creativity or censor you in any way. We just want you to stay safe while you’re here, and have a long, successful, and safe career in the industry.
No shot is worth risking your life. No project is more important than your safety. If something on set isn’t safe, don’t do it. Say something. Tell someone. Let’s learn from this tragedy and commit ourselves to a “safety first” mindset, now and throughout your careers.
Please reach out to me if you would like to discuss this situation, or if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Interim Chair, Film & Electronic Arts Department
Assistant Professor & Head of Screenwriting Track
California State University, Long Beach
