From hysterical Ma’amad videos to thought provoking films, senior Zev Friedberg does it all. As one of the few filmmakers walking around campus, Emery loves to celebrate Friedberg’s talent. He is the epitome of creativity and a role model for every student.
As the school’s favorite creator, Friedberg is no stranger to the Ma’amad spotlight. Starting on the first day of school, Friedberg was the pure genius behind the “Dow Hits the Streets” (DHTS) video, an iconic Emery tradition. At first, it was “nerve-wracking making something with such high expectations,” admits Friedberg. “But, once we started filming, I had the best time.” To no one’s surprise, students and faculty were wiping tears of laughter after the video’s debut. Senior Esther Gordon says it “was one of the funniest DHTS videos I’ve seen in my seven years at Emery!” Friedberg managed to start everyone’s school year with a smile while also proving his sheer brilliance.
Every talented filmmaker has to start somewhere. For Friedberg, producing music videos acted as a gateway into bigger projects. During his freshman year, Friedberg produced a music video for Jay Screw, also known as Jacob Akalou, a senior at Emery. “The video wasn’t very good,” laughs Friedberg. Regardless of the video’s quality, Friedberg “had such a great time filming” and knew he wanted to continue experimenting with film.
Fast forward to four years later, and Friedberg is now producing several short films, his favorite being his senior directed project. The senior directed class is a course exclusive to seniors at Emery. Though “it wasn’t easy fitting the class into [his] schedule,” Friedberg knew he “had to take it.” In years past, the majority of students taking the course wrote or directed an already existing play to present to an audience. Friedberg decided to step outside of the box and do what he knows best: making a movie from scratch. Taking senior directed was “a priceless experience” that allowed the filmmaker to create his “favorite piece yet.” Along with creating a film, Friedberg also appreciated “making the most important connection” he’s experienced during high school with Mrs. Jennifer Bauer-Conley (JBC). He values “her continuous confidence” in his talents and her ability to always push Friedberg “in the right direction.”
Looking back, one of the greatest pieces of advice Friedberg can offer young filmmakers is getting more experience in front of the camera. Though it can feel awkward to act when you know it’s not your strong suit, “waiting for people to volunteer as actors in your films can prevent you from getting valuable experience,” shares Friedberg. It’s also important for aspiring artists to have patience with their creations. There have been films where Friedberg has spent over 150 hours editing. To regain inspiration, Friedberg turns back to one of his favorite quotes by artist Tyler, the Creator: “Patience is relevant depending on what you care about.” When you love what you do, “spending long hours filming and editing is undoubtedly worth it,” says Friedberg.
Don’t be surprised if you see a Zev Friedberg production on your TV screen in the coming years as there’s no question he will keep pursuing film. “Going into a creative field comes with risk, but I have to pursue what I love,” admits Friedberg. Emery will be losing a priceless talent when the filmmaker graduates, but the legacy he leaves behind will be one that keeps giving. He has shown the entire student body that it’s not too early to start doing what you love. All you have to do is “take the initiative.”
