Portlandia has launched the careers of multiple students from the UO Cinema Studies Program over the past four years.

Story and photo by Shauna Riedel-Bash

Cinema Studies student interns Laura Brehm and Jordyn Roach enjoy a brief moment on set with Portlandia creator and co-star Fred Armisen.

WE PUT A BIRD ON IT. NOW IT’S ART.

Portlandia, in case you haven’t seen it, is a Peabody, WGA, and Emmy award-winning sketch-comedy series that is set and filmed in Portland, Oregon, starring Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. If 14 Emmy nominations aren’t enough, the production has also distinguished itself as a premier example of giving back to education, building and ensuring the future success of filmmakers in Oregon. Dedicated local producers Kevin Sullivan and David Cress lead the charge in this effort for Sidestreet Entertainment Inc., Lorne Michaels’s production company that produces Portlandia.

Over the past four years, the UO Cinema Studies Program has fostered a close relationship with the production. Producers and crew from Portlandia have given their time to share with students what it’s like to work in the industry
 by speaking at the Cinema Studies Working Filmmakers Series, teaching small workshops, and speaking to students in a variety of classes. “It is important to help develop the next generation of filmmakers,” states producer Kevin Sullivan. “Giving students an opportunity to see how a TV show operates from the ground up is an invaluable insight into understanding production. Some of our past interns have gone on to be industry leaders in Oregon and elsewhere.”

Additionally, many Cinema Studies students obtained their first professional opportunities through the production. So far, more than twenty Cinema Studies students participated in internships on Portlandia, and many now work in the Oregon film industry. “Interning on Portlandia has opened so many doors into the film industry; learning industry structure on set is something that can’t be taught in any book,” says Kendall McClintock, Cinema Studies student intern. Portlandia recently wrapped its sixth season of filming, which included six student interns and multiple alumni working on the production. “UO Cinema Studies continues to provide a team of extremely sharp, motivated, aspiring filmmakers who dive into our unique world of production with boundless energy and enthusiasm. I am once again grateful to Shauna [Riedel-Bash] and the participating students for another amazing season,” says Steve Weisman, production supervisor, Portlandia Season 6.

“It is important to help develop the next generation of

filmmakers.  Giving students an opportunity to see how

a TV show operates from the ground up is an invaluable

insight into understanding production. Some of our past

interns have gone on to be industry leaders in Oregon

and elsewhere.”

Kevin Sullivan

Producer

Portlandia

There is no doubt about the contribution Portlandia is making to the industry in Oregon. “It’s clear producers Kevin and David are committed to not only producing a fantastic show but also to teaching the next generation of up-and-coming filmmakers,” states Shauna Riedel-Bash, who directs internships for the Cinema Studies Program. “Most sets are run like a family, and this family in particular encourages students to jump in and participate, ask questions, and really hone in on their interests and develop new talents,” states Riedel-Bash. “One great example happened this past summer: Fred Armisen reached out to our interns and made sure they knew even he was willing to answer their questions during breaks. It’s not often students have such incredible access to learn at every level in a live production, and we’re thrilled to partner with Portlandia to bring this opportunity to students.”

Don’t forget to support the Cinema Studies students and alumni and watch Portlandia Season 6.