Cinematic Portrayals
By Marlo Drexler | Student Life | Dec 15, 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) — Students at Stanton College Preparatory School see films as more than entertainment. Film often shapes people’s self-perceptions and who they aspire to be. Through the characters they watch, they find parts of their identity, whether through courage, humor, or determination. These connections reveal how films mirror real life in meaningful ways. For certain students, these reflections go even deeper, offering emotional guidance during difficult times.
“A person can see themselves in a certain character, and their problems could be reflected through the character’s circumstances,” sophomore Aurya Phommasing said. “It can help them deal with emotions in their life, like grief.”
When students see their own struggles and hopes reflected on screen, it helps them feel understood. Films and television shows offer a platform for individuals to process their emotions, explore personal growth, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
“I connect to Musa from [ “Winx Club,” an animated series about teenage fairies balancing everyday life and magical challenges,] because I am very connected to music, and my past life has been difficult just like hers,” sophomore Noah Esteban said.
Others connect to characters in more lighthearted ways, recognizing traits or quirks they share. These similarities help them form personal connections, which make the viewing experience more meaningful. For them, these moments of recognition bring joy and a sense of belonging within the stories they love.
“I see myself in Pinkie Pie from [“My Little Pony,” an animated series following the adventures of a studious unicorn and her friends.] because every day is a party for me,” freshman Alessandra Fernandez said.
For other students, their connections with film and television characters influence them artistically, using what they see on screen to shape their own artistic interests. The emotions and imagery in their favorite films often guide how they write, paint, or approach other forms of expression.
“Characters in film influence my art style by inspiring the motions, colors, and personalities I express through my own creative work,” senior Kacie Po said.
Whether through emotional connection or creative influence, film and television continue to shape how students at Stanton see themselves and the world around them. For Stanton students, the screen is more than a source of entertainment; it’s a reflection of their own stories.