Press release– Kearny School District is proud to celebrate the creative achievements of two Kearny High School seniors, Aurora Latona and Jasmine Viera, whose original short film, “The Usual Please,” earned a prestigious Judges Award at the Hudson County Teen Arts festival.
The students began developing the project in the fall, creating a deeply moving narrative centered around a devoted elderly couple, Murray and Anet, who visit Mr. Geez diner in Lyndhurst every day to share their usual breakfast. When Anet passes away, a heartbroken Murray continues to visit the diner alone, occasionally ordering his late wife’s favorite meal to go as he copes with his loss. The heart of the film highlights the profound impact of community compassion, as their regular waitress, Carmen, secretly pays for the extra food out of her own pocket and covers for Murray when a new waitress, Jane, attempts to charge him.
Under the instruction of KHS broadcasting instructor Mr. Ryan Miller, the students bring this touching vision to life on location in Lyndhurst. Latona serves as the director and cinematographer, while Viera takes on the lead acting role. The production also features KHS student Deeana Vinan alongside local theater actors Robert Strauch and Melissa Broder.
“We are very proud of these young filmmakers and their remarkable creative accomplishments. To see our students pursue their unique passions with such dedication and walk away with top regional honors is an exceptional achievement,” Superintendent of Schools Flora Encarnacao said. “This award is a true reflection of the talent we foster here at Kearny High School, as well as the passion of our faculty who consistently provide the tools and outlets for students to express themselves and their creativity.”
The high school’s TV and broadcasting program allows students to gain hands-on experience in all aspects of production, from scriptwriting to filming and editing.
“Guiding and mentoring these students as they brought their vision to life has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Mr. Miller. “Our goal is always to provide the foundation for students to confidently take on regional opportunities like the Teen Arts Festival, preparing them to pursue a career in the arts with real-world experience.”
To celebrate the project, the high school hosted “The Usual Please” short film premiere and senior ceremony. The event gathered family, friends, faculty, and local cast members to debut the film and honor the two seniors, who served as the heart and soul of the broadcasting program for three years by filming and capturing their peers at dance, band, musical, play, and athletic performances. The ceremony featured remarks from Miller, District Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts Kathleen Astrella, and the student filmmakers, alongside a surprise tribute video created by those closest to them.
The film, credited to Latona and Viera, is available to view online on YouTube at https://youtu.be/4CBtBQTCavQ.
