The highly anticipated documentary “Studio City Wolverines” has been released, offering a captivating and poignant look into the lives of young students and their community at Harvard-Westlake, a co-ed educational college preparatory school based in Los Angeles.
Directed by “TheSpanishRestaurant,” the documentary provides an intimate portrait of the Studio City high school and a group of their students from 2014, capturing their journeys while triumphs, challenges, and personal growth aid their careers as students.
In 2014, a series of short interviews were filmed of Wolverines; the school mascot is the Wolverine and many faculty, alumni, and students identify as such. What was preserved and brought back to life after ten years serves an incredible look into what high school life was like at the time.
This short documentary goes beyond the typical documentary about a school, it serves as an independent look into what lies in the feelings of high school students. It delves into the dynamics of the school, the individual stories of the students, and the impact of education on their lives and the broader community. Through its lens, viewers witness the raw emotions, the relentless impact of the school, and the social structure the students describe.
Seldom is said about the internalized trouble in the school, and it’s high-time there was investigative journaling done about it. While much of the documentary focuses on the student’s journey through the academic pressure, it also addresses the less visible battles they face in their daily lives. Many Wolverines grapple with issues such as academic pressure, family instability, and mental health challenges. These internalized disturbances are seldom discussed openly, yet they significantly impact the school’s students performance and well-being.
Harvard-Westlake school often does not touch on topics like racism, sexism, homophobia, and more in terms of statements with individual student signings. This documentary does not take a pause and flesh over these important issues, instead it asks the students in these interviews taken in 2014 about the topics. Students responded with a lot of zest and hopes for a better change. We have yet to hear a statement from the school, should they choose to make another documentary as a follow-up or do something else with this piece of film.
“Studio City Wolverines” is more than just a documentary about a school. It is a powerful narrative about dreams, resilience, and the transformative power of narrative. It reminds us all of the importance of community, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of one’s goals, no matter the obstacles. For those seeking an inspiring and heartfelt story, “Studio City Wolverines” is a must-watch. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact of educational establishments on individuals and communities alike. It serves as a poignant reminder of the significance an educational facility can play in shaping young lives and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
“Studio City Wolverines” is now available for streaming on YouTube. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact of schools on individuals and communities alike.
Watch “Studio City Wolverines” on YouTube now and join the journey of these remarkable young students, interviewed in 2014.
Author
Daniel Wolfe