A team of students from the University of Portsmouth recently created a short documentary about finding community through the rock music society and we are delighted to showcase it on S&C. By Editor, Sarah Cheverton.
The film, A Leap of Faith: Into Alternative Culture is an impactful journey through the eyes of Faith, president of Portsmouth University’s rock music society, “as she navigates what it means to live authentically, confront mental health challenges, and find community within alternative culture.”
The film is directed and edited by student Daniel Flynn. He told us:
“We made this documentary because we wanted to tell a story that doesn’t often get the spotlight. It’s about the quiet but powerful journey of someone finding identity and community by embracing who they are.
“Faith’s story reflects something a lot of young people feel but rarely say out loud. Standing out can be terrifying, but it’s also how you find the people who truly see you. We wanted to honour that and show that alternative culture isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about connection, survival, and being proud of who you are.
“More than anything, we wanted to send a message to anyone feeling alone: take that leap of faith and put yourself out there, you will find people just like you.”
You can watch the film below, and make sure to head over to YouTube to give it a like and share your thoughts and opinions in the comments. You can also read a behind-the-scenes account of the making of the short documentary here.
Editor’s Review: I watched the film as soon as we received it here at S&C and – as someone who knows nothing about alternative culture, rock music, or navigating Portsmouth as a student new to the city – I found it riveting to watch and incredibly moving. Without giving away too much, A Leap of Faith gives a unique insight into how students in Portsmouth build their own communities, often while facing isolation and mental health issues away from their homes and support networks. It’s also beautifully shot and I never tire of seeing the city through new eyes.
We’re looking forward to seeing more from Daniel and the students in the future.
