Guide On

Guide On is the story of a young woman’s quest to be extraordinary, inspired by true events.

On her first day of basic training, Halle Varro, a young Army recruit, stands out among her peers as she competes to be the guidon bearer. Halle’s attitude of defiance and winning at all costs puts her in Drill Sergeant Mallett’s crosshairs. Can Halle rise to the challenge and become the first female guidon bearer?

  • Tara Donovan
    Producer
  • Paige Compton
    Director
  • Paige Compton
    Writer
  • Shawntelle Lee Cuevas
    Key Cast
    "Halle Varro"
  • Chiara Maya
    Key Cast
    "DS Mallett"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes 45 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 14, 2020
  • Production Budget:
    40,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - AFI
Director Biography - Paige Compton

Paige Compton is a recent graduate of the American Film Institute Conservatory, with an MFA in Film Directing. During her time in the U.S. Army, she held the title of Visual Information Equipment Operator/Maintainer (25R) and cross-trained into Graphic Design and Photography. The last four years of her military service were spent as an Audiovisual Director for the offices of the 44th President and VP of the United States.

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Director Statement

This story is inspired by an event that happened to me while I was attending Basic Combat Training for the US Army at Fort Jackson, SC. It came to me last year during a class at AFI and I knew that it was a story that deserved to be translated into film. I really strived to capture the essence of the driven, determined spirit of the modern woman; while also introducing a tone of the Army that most have never seen. I hope you enjoy the journey!