Behind the Lens: Alumni Document History with ‘I Can’t Breathe’
“I Can’t Breathe” is a raw, unflinching documentary featuring previously unseen footage of the events that shaped 2020.
Last month, The Los Angeles Film School welcomed back two alumni, Jeff & Lauren Benjamin, to host a screening for Academy members of their latest film, “I Can’t Breathe.” The film is an intimate portrait of how the tragic death of George Floyd changed the world and sparked a powerful movement that defined a year of unprecedented social upheaval. “I Can’t Breathe” was announced as one of the 97th Academy Awards’ eligible films in the best documentary feature category.
Jeff and Lauren met nearly 15 years ago while on a job on the set of a television show called “Miami Nights.” Their love for each other grew right alongside their curiosity to learn the ins and outs of the film industry, and they both decided to pursue an education in film. Jeff first became involved in social justice issues by following the story of two boys from Chicago, ages 7 & 8, the youngest accused murderers in the United States. Jeff wrote a book, “Juvenile Injustice: The Chicago Story,” on the trial and later found validation from further immersing himself in social justice issues, eventually spending a year volunteering in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake.
Jeff and Lauren took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles. They chose to attend The Los Angeles Film School for its hands-on experience and prime location in the heart of Hollywood, where the pulse of the entertainment industry beats strongest.
“Just being in the heart of LA, where movies were basically invented, helped submerge me in the industry,” said Jeff. “I felt like I was in the center of all the action. I was watching movie magic happen all around me, and I felt a part of it.”
Jeff attended the Cinematography and Film/Video Production program while Lauren began studying in the school’s Entertainment Business degree program. Having graduated from the program with honors, Lauren soon learned that she wanted to start creating, which sparked her drive to head back to The Los Angeles Film School to participate in its Writing for Film & Television program.
“My teachers in both of my programs at The Los Angeles Film School have pushed my creativity and fueled my inspiration,” said Lauren of her time with the school’s instructors. “They were encouraging and provided insightful guidance on evolving my writing.”
“I Can’t Breathe” was inspired by Jeff’s desire to share what he feels was a catalytic and overlooked moment in world history, happening in cities around the globe during the tumultuous summer of 2020. In his words, the murder of George Floyd was one of the greatest travesties in history, a spark that ignited discussions around social injustice all over the world, and it must not be forgotten.
Jeff and Lauren find constant inspiration in working together while raising their family of four children. And they value the time that was spent at The Los Angeles Film School. They still take advantage of many of the school’s alumni opportunities. Specifically, they both credit The Los Angeles Film School’s involvement with the academy as having helped open doors, spawning their creativity, sharpening their industry skills, and providing them with opportune paths to networking, relationships, and jobs.
We love learning about what our alums are working on in the entertainment industry. If you’re an L.A. Film School alum with an upcoming project, tell us about it! Connect with us and send your project details!