There’s a large emphasis today on chasing the dreams and aspirations of life. From complex and difficult dreams, like becoming a successful musician, to things as seemingly simple as getting married and having two and a half kids, the chase is encouraged just the same.
Current Northwestern student and editor of the Beacon sports section Jordan Dykstra did just that. It took him far beyond the comfort of small town Iowa. He landed himself in New Orleans.
Dykstra was asked this spring to work on the production set of upcoming film “Beyond Deceit” and jumped on the opportunity. It was something that he had dreamed of doing.
His passion for movies was sparked at a very young age and he was finally going to get a shot to work in the industry that he has valued throughout his life.
“I’ve been in love with movies as long as I’ve been able to remember,” Dykstra said. “‘Star Wars’ and ‘Jurassic Park’ consumed my childhood.”
Through connections made during a summer internship in Los Angles, Dykstra was offered a month-long position to work onset with the film.
“Of course, I wasn’t going to say no, no matter what,” Dykstra said.
Dykstra started his position immediately after traveling to New Orleans in mid-March and embraced his role quickly.
While some of his job could seem a bit tedious, others are vital and very important to production.
“My role is assistant to the producers – Ellen Wander and Chris Brown (not the singer),” Dykstra said. “I’m in charge of all their paperwork, needs and so on throughout the production. I’ve also had to do a lot of grocery shopping for cast members.”
During his time in New Orleans, Dykstra has had the opportunity to get to know some actors offset.
“The best part of my journey apart from being in set and seeing everything unfold, has probably been going out to dinner with cast members,” Dykstra said. “Being able to talk to a legend and a personal hero like Al Pacino. Those are things I’ll never forget.”
Dykstra plans to return for graduation in May following his time filming in New Orleans.
