Core Program

Overview

Each participant in the Core Program shoots and edits an individual, non-fiction film related to a personal human rights issue. Through the process of making these films, our youth are supported in engaging with their own lives in a unique way, and in experiencing the catharsis of an informal, but powerful, art therapy structure.

Method

A key element to our method lies in the atmosphere of trust and confidence created within the program. Prior to working with the youth, all trainers experience first hand the self-exploratory focus of the program by creating their own film. By discussing their personal lives, trauma and development with students, Reel Lives trainers break down the walls that exist in traditional teacher and student roles, and encourage trust, honesty and investment from each participant.

Skills Training

Through professionally led training and workshops, Reel Lives’ participants develop a foundation of skills for employment in the media sector. Through our job placement initiative and production house, all our graduates have the opportunity to participate in paid media-making work and internships.

Since Reel Lives’ inception in June 2010, our students have produced over 60 films.

Outreach & Impact

Since 2010, our films have been screened at the following locations / events:

• The American Folk Art Museum
• Do It Your Damn Self! Film Festival
• New York University
• The New School
• Rutgers University
• The Paley Center for Media
• The Nitehawk Cinema
• The Polo Grounds Community Center in partnership with LitWorld
• Manhattan International Night & Day High School
• Talent Unlimited High School
• Baruch College Campus High School
• Manhattan International High School
• City-As High School
• PS 35
• PS 751
• Facing History High School
• Bellview High School

Check out our Press page for more info on Reel Lives’ reach.

If you are interested in screening or programming any of our Reel Lives films, please contact Leah Sapin at leah@reel-lives.org

Apply Now

Are you or someone you know interested in documentary filmmaking? Do you have a story you want to share with the world? Fill in our ‎Reel Lives application for a chance to be part of our next class.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about the application process.