There’s no doubt where his sporting allegiance lies. He has such a deep love for the yellow and black colors that he decided to pay tribute to his beloved club. Shay Levert, a graduate of the Bachelor’s program in Audiovisual Communication, is directing the documentary “120” on the history of Club Atlético Peñarol, which will premiere on September 28. "I am grateful for my degree, because the education I received at ORT goes beyond the audiovisual field," says the graduate.
- When did you come up with the idea of making a documentary about Peñarol?
- We started this process more than three years ago. At the time, Peñarol wasn't exactly at the top of its game, but from the very beginning, I sought to combine my two passions: film and Peñarol.
- What will the course be called, and how long will it last?
- The title is "120" (marking the institution's 120th anniversary, including its predecessor, CURCC), and it will run between 75 and 85 minutes.
- What is the documentary about?
- This film tells the story of Peñarol from its founding to the present day, including the most recent Copa Libertadores and the club’s latest developments. It’s a film that tells the story in a lively, engaging way, allowing us to relive it through a lens that will move older fans and captivate younger ones.
- Who will be the main subjects of the documentary?
- The main protagonists are the Peñarol jersey, its heroic exploits, and the club itself.
- When will it be released?
- September 28, the date on which the institution celebrates its 120th anniversary. We are currently finalizing the details.
- Are there any other students or graduates from Universidad ORT Uruguay with you?
- Yes, almost everyone on the team went to college.
- What do you feel your degree has contributed to your work on a documentary?
- A great deal. I am deeply grateful to my field of study, because the education I received at ORT goes beyond the audiovisual arts; there are wonderful professors from whom I learned fundamental lessons; I can’t forget Prof. Ana Solari—who advised me to study audiovisual arts when I was leaning toward another field—and Prof. Pablo Ferré, who guided me on the path to my first short film.
- What would you highlight about the program?
- Throughout my studies, I made friends who will be friends for life (at least I hope so), and part of that group is now my team at Polonio Films.
- Why did you decide to start the production company Polonio Films?
- Polonio Films is a film and advertising production company. Founded in 2010, it has been developing corporate content, feature films, fiction, and documentaries since its very first day. Polonio brings together successful audiovisual professionals who seek to create a dynamic narrative style, focusing the viewer’s attention on the story. The project itself has been in the works for over three years. A point came when it was essential to establish a production company. Polonio is pursuing a new style of filmmaking; those who know me understand what I mean, and those who don’t can watch the film “120” or meet us in person.
- What does your work at the Jewish Community of Uruguay entail?
- I am the Director of Communications.
- What were your previous jobs?
- I have worked in various roles at several production companies, ranging from casting assistant to director.
Interview published in July 2011