Have you seen those ads for the MasterClass videos? They’re all over YouTube and the production value is clearly impressive but perhaps you haven’t seen one that matched your interests. Well, that’s all about to change now that Cool Carll teaches Student Ministry in this MasterClass parody.
Yes, it’s a MasterClass parody
Obviously, this isn’t a serious masterclass, I doubt that MasterClass would make one this niche or with such an unknown figure (feel free to prove me wrong masterclass). But still, there are a couple of things we can learn from this parody.
What can we learn from this content of this parody?
A good parody or satire exaggerates a real issue and pokes fun at the group. Generally, I think parody is best when it’s directed back at the creator rather than at outsiders.
This seems to be the case here and we can see from the references to various recreational activities, cultural references and church youth specific ideas (lockins). It shows how student’s ministry can end up focused on recreation and being “cool” over spiritual development.
Not that we can’t have fun, do recreational activities AND grow spiritually, but if the focus of a masterclass was only the recreation side, then that’s worrying. Perhaps we should examine our own activities this way.
What can we learn from the video production of this parody?
In terms of production, they manage to nail the Masterclass lighting and scene style very well. With a classic three point lighting and black backdrop as well as second camera to the side.
This style clearly now has some cultural resonance and could be used for a similar parody video announcement (perhaps for a catechism or new disciple course?).
It also shows how achievable high quality video is without a hollywood budget. Admittedly it’s not exactly as high standard and I’m sure some video creators and people with great attention to detail can identify some missing details. Regardless, the point is that we can achieve a lot, with a small budget.
What do you think of Cool Carll’s Student Ministry MasterClass?
Did this video resonate with you? Could you relate to any of the issues he mentioned?
image from Cool Carll’s parody video
Blessing Mpofu says
So funny but also so helpful, thanks Cool Carll and Chris.