Page 2 – NYFA

NYFA Alum Pierre Marais Joins ‘Sunset Boulevard’ Revival on Broadway

Congratulations to 2-Year Conservatory in Musical Theatre alum Pierre Marais, who is set to be part of the ensemble cast in the upcoming Broadway revival of Sunset Boulevard! The iconic production will open on October 20, 2024, at the St. James Theatre in New York City. Marais, known for his roles in shows such as Aladdin, Dancing Queen, West Side Story, Rock of Ages, and As Apple Pie, will play the role of Sammy in this highly anticipated revival directed by Jamie Lloyd.

NYFA Alum Pierre Marais Joins ‘Sunset Boulevard’ Revival on Broadway

The latest revival of Sunset Boulevard stars Nicole Scherzinger (formerly of The Pussycat Dolls) as Norma Desmond, with Tom Francis as Joe Gillis, Grace Hodgett-Young as Betty Schaeffer, and David Thaxton as Max Von Mayerling. The musical, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton, revisits the story of a jaded movie star (Desmond) and her complex relationship with a struggling screenwriter (Gillis). The production, which is also a stripped-down, minimalist version of the traditional show, promises to give audiences a fresh take on a classic.

*Nicole Scherzinger reveals shock at being asked to play ‘older’ Norma Desmond*

“I *am* big. It’s the *pictures* that got small.” – Norma Desmond, Sunset Boulevard

The History of the Iconic ‘Sunset Boulevard’ Story

The inspiration for the title ‘Sunset Boulevard’ is the California street by the same name. Going through Pacific Coast Highway to Figueroa Street in Downtown Los Angeles, and passing through the legendary Beverly Hills and the Sunset Strip, the street symbolizes the allure and glamour of Hollywood. This reflects the story of the classic film and subsequent stage production.

Known for its compelling portrayal of Hollywood’s bygone era and its critique of the film industry, audiences first were exposed to the story of Sunset Boulevard in the 1950 film directed by Billy Wilder. The classic American film noir starred Gloria Swanson as Norma Desmond and William Holden as Joe Gillis. Swanson’s own filmography was used to inspire the character of Desmond, with many photographs of her own Hollywood career in the background throughout the film.

*Movie Spotlight: “Sunset Boulevard”: A look at a Hollywood classic.*

The film received eleven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, and won three, including Best Writing, Story, and Screenplay. The film is often cited as one of the greatest films in American cinema and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the U.S. Library of Congress in 1989. Decades after hitting the silver screen, the production premiered in London’s West End at the Adelphi Theatre on July 12, 1993. Patti LuPone (Evita, Oliver!, Anything Goes, and Company) starred as Norma Desmond.

*Twenty Years Later, Patti LuPone Performs Sunset Boulevard in London | Playbill*

In 1994, the show first opened on Broadway at the Minskoff Theatre. NYFA Guest Speaker Glenn Close, known for her versatile roles in Fatal Attraction, The Wife, The Stepford Wives, and 101 Dalmations, starred as Norma Desmond. The production won multiple awards, including the Tony for Best Musical. In 2017, Close reprised the role again at the Palace Theatre in New York.

*See Glenn Close as Norma Desmond in Her Return to Sunset Boulevard | Playbill*

In 2023, there was another West End revival (also starring Scherzinger and directed by Jamie Lloyd) that won multiple Olivier Awards and received critical acclaim.

Develop Your Inner Performer at NYFA

Located in New York City, a central hub for musical theatre, NYFA’s musical theatre programs offer students extraordinary exposure to the theatre, TV, and film communities. These intensive programs allow students to strengthen their skills in voice, dance, and performance. During long-term programs, students may also have the chance to participate in fully-produced main-stage musicals, new works series, and industry showcases.

Ready to learn more about the musical theatre programs at NYFA? Request more information from our admissions team today!

NYFA Los Angeles Holds an Immersive Crane Workshop

This July, NYFA’s Cinematography department held a hands-on Crane Workshop for MFA Cinematography students. In this immersive workshop, students worked directly with this essential filmmaking tool, a 32-foot telescoping crane from Chapman-Leonard. Led by Cinematographer Jacek Laskus, ASC, PSC, the workshop enabled students to learn directly from a leading industry expert. The experience was invaluable for students learning the mechanics and creative possibilities of using sophisticated film equipment.

“This is a very important workshop for the MFA Cinematography students, as they have a chance to learn to use a remote head and operate the camera using the wheels. Building this skill opens up additional opportunities for them to work as a camera operator on bigger, more complex shoots, either with a remote head or a traditional geared head,” said Mike Williamson, Associate Chair of Cinematography at NYFA’s Los Angeles campus. “As cinematographers, learning to use a large crane arm is also going to unlock a huge range of possibilities for camera movement.”

Behind The Scenes in an Immersive Crane Workshop at NYFA Los Angeles

The Crane Workshop has long been a highlight of the MFA Cinematography third semester. Upon joining the program in 2015, Department Chair Anthony B. Richmond ASC, BSC redesigned this course to incorporate several of the bigger, more complex tools that students will find on major productions.

This course has become a cornerstone of the program, giving the MFA Cinematography students a unique experience to prepare them for the professional world. Through this immersion, students can understand the impact of camera movements on storytelling.

In this workshop led by Laskus, students were introduced to using a crane to tell compelling visual stories.

“Their instructor Jacek Laskus ASC, PSC has been guiding the students and helping them design their shots, and they’ve been working to execute their ideas with a high level of precision,” described Williamson. “The workshop runs all week, so each student has also had experience with the different crew positions needed to execute a crane shot. We’re grateful to our friends at Chapman-Leonard and Geo Film Group for their support in getting this gear into the students’ hands.”

The Importance of Cranes in Filmmaking and Cinematography

In filmmaking and cinematography, cranes are used to achieve a variety of dynamic and visually compelling shots. Cranes allow filmmakers to move the camera smoothly in multiple directions, providing the ability to capture unique angles and perspectives. In the industry, cranes are often used for increasing the scope of your establishing shots. Crane shots are often used for establishing shots, and introducing the setting of a scene. They can capture large sets, massive crowds, and dramatic landscapes, providing a bird’s eye view.

Overall, NYFA’s crane workshop is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience that combines technical training with creative exploration, preparing students for the demands of the film industry.

Cinematographer Jacek Laskus, ASC, PSC

Jacek Laskus, ASC, PSC, is a distinguished cinematographer celebrated for his extensive and influential career in film. A member of both the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) and the Polish Society of Cinematographers (PSC), Laskus has made significant contributions as a cinematographer, camera operator, and director.

Throughout his career, Laskus has worked on a diverse array of projects, demonstrating his versatility and expertise. He was twice nominated for an ASC Award for Best Cinematography in TV Pilot/Movie of the Week and worked with directors including Robert Altman, Jonathan Demme, Donald Petrie Sr., Michael Pressman, and Michael Lindsay-Hogg. Notable works in his cinematography portfolio include Parting Glances (1986), The Guardian (2001), and The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial (1988), as well as New Jack City (1991, 2nd unit work), Love & Other Drugs (2010) and The Exorcist III (1990).

Laskus was inducted into the ASC in 2000, marking a significant milestone in his career. Recently, he expanded his creative horizons by directing Picnic and a Little Mutiny, collaborating with Jack McDonald as the director of photography. This project highlights his continued commitment to exploring new facets of filmmaking. Beyond his work on set, Laskus is known for sharing his insights and expertise through interviews and discussions about cinematography. His contributions to the field have earned him respect and recognition within the film industry, solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.

Master the Art and Craft of Cinematography at NYFA

At NYFA, we offer a dynamic, hands-on approach to learning that immerses you in the world of film and cinematography. From day one of our MFA program in Cinematography, students dive into intensive practical training with professional equipment, including industry-standard film and digital cinema cameras, lighting, and grip packages. The program covers various aspects of filmmaking, including narrative storytelling, screenwriting, directing, editing, producing, and post-production sound design. With courses led by industry-experienced faculty, students gain real-world experience through numerous projects, helping them to continue to develop a robust portfolio and reel.

Don’t just learn about cinematography—live it. Apply to NYFA and start your journey towards becoming a cinematographer today!

NYFA Alum Eve Hewson Stars in ‘The Perfect Couple’ Alongside Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber

NYFA alum Eve Hewson is starring in the new Netflix series The Perfect Couple, an upcoming American mystery drama that will air on September 5th. Based on a 2018 novel of the same name by Elin Hilderbrand, the show is a six-part series. Susanne Bier, known for The Undoing and Bird Box, is set to direct. Hewson graduated from the 4-week Acting for Film workshop at NYFA New York.

NYFA Alum Eve Hewson Stars in ‘The Perfect Couple’ Alongside Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber

The Perfect Couple revolves around the character of Amelia Sacks, played by Hewson. Amelia, who is about to marry into the affluent Winbury family of Nantucket, finds her wedding upside down when the event is overshadowed by a murder investigation. The series has an all-star cast that includes Nicole Kidman as Greer Garrison Winbury, novelist and the groom’s mother, Liev Schreiber as Tag Winbury, the groom’s father, Dakota Fanning as Abby Winbury, the sister-in-law, and Billy Howle as Benji Winbury, the groom. Filming took place in Massachusetts, including locations like Nantucket and Cape Cod.

Eve Hewson on Screen

One of Eve Hewson’s earliest appearances was opposite Sean Penn and Frances McDormand in the film This Must Be the Place (2011). She followed with a role in NYFA Guest Speaker Steven Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies (2015), and played the lead in The Script’s music video “For The First Time.” Hewson also starred in the romantic comedy, Enough Said (2013), Robin Hood (2018), the BBC’s adaptation of Eleanor Catton’s novel The Luminaries (2020), the Netflix limited series Behind Her Eyes (2021), and Flora and Son (2023).

*Eve Hewson opposite her on-screen beau, Billy Howle* via Tudum

One of Hewson’s most memorable roles is the four-time Emmy-nominated series Bad Sisters (2022) from Apple TV. The hit first season helped ensure greenlighting season two of the series, which picks up where the sisters left off.

Develop Your Acting and Audition Skills at NYFA

Acting for Film programs at NYFA offers practical, hands-on training where students engage in intensive screen acting. Through projects and exercises, students gain real-world experience and build their confidence in front of the camera. Depending on the program, students may have performance opportunities such as live monologue presentations, recorded scenes, and participation in industry showcases to build a professional reel. Acting for Film students may also collaborate with peers in the filmmaking department on short films.

Ready to learn more about pursuing goals in acting at NYFA? Explore our programs or request more information from our admissions team today!

NYFA & Sony Music Video Collaboration Is The Official Selection at Sidewalk Film Festival

We’re thrilled to share that the groundbreaking music video “Country Song II” by The Thing, created in collaboration with Sony and Cooke Optics, has been selected for the Sidewalk Film Festival!

NYFA Students, Faculty, and Alums Partner with Sony and Cooke Optics on The Thing’s “Country Song II” Music Video

This project, featuring Brooklyn’s own music artists Jack Bradley, Michael Carter, Lucas Ebeling, and Zane Acord, was brought to life by a dedicated team of NYFA students, alums, and faculty. Using cutting-edge Sony cameras and Cooke Optics gear, we captured stunning visuals that truly showcased The Thing’s incredible talent.

NYFA & Sony Music Video Collaboration Is The Official Selection at Sidewalk Film Festival

Back in October 2023, NYFA students, alumni, and faculty joined forces to create a professional music video. Now, the Brooklyn-based music group is headed to the Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham, Alabama. Selected as part of the “Shorts: Music Videos” category, the collaboration piece will screen on August 24, 2024 at the Alabama School of Fine Arts. Tickets can be purchased on the Sidewalk Film Festival website.

The band features Jack Bradley and Michael Carter on guitar, Lucas Ebeling on drums, and Zane Acord as the frontman, handling vocals and bass.

“Getting the opportunity to work on this project was such a joy for me,” said Ben Rummans at the time of the collaboration. Rummans, an alum of NYFA’s 1-Year Certificate in Filmmaking program, was the co-director of the music video. “Having the chance to collaborate with titans of the industry like Sony and Cooke was such a great experience, and reuniting with my NYFA friends, mentors, and classmates made the experience that much better,” said Rummans. “I’m especially happy that we got to work with such a talented band, The Thing; uplifting local artists is a goal toward which we should always strive.”

Filmed by Piero Basso, AIC, and Chair of the Cinematography Department at NYFA’s New York City campus, the filming took place at the production space Zero Space Brooklyn. The official selection is just one of many recent film festival achievements in the NYFA community.

Create Your Own Films at NYFA

NYFA students have a lot of opportunities to get involved with fellow peers on creative projects. Our hands-on curriculum is designed for students to create their own short films and performances, enabling them to build practical, real-life creative skills. NYFA also offers resources such as our film festival department and an expansive alumni network.

NYFA’s Film Festival Department

NYFA’s Film Festival Department, run by Crickett Rumley, is an additional pillar of support for students.

The Film Festival Department supports matriculated students and alums of NYFA’s long-term programs. The department helps students:

Evaluate if a film will be competitive in the film festival world
Create a submission strategy
Craft a list of festivals to submit to and attend
Learn how to save money on entry fees
Develop festival deliverables (EPKs, trailers, and social media assets)
Learn how to avoid low-value film festivals, scams, and fake awards

Students and alums who have worked with the Film Festival Department have been selected by the Sundance Film Festival, the BFI London Film Festival, as well as the American Pavilion at Cannes. Please note that working with the department is offered to students and recent alumni in long-term programs with films made in NYFA courses.

NYFA’s Alumni Network

After graduating from NYFA, students in long-term programs can enroll in our international alumni network, providing access to professionals in the film, television, and entertainment industries. The network helps students connect with other alumni and opportunities, read the latest alumni success stories, and build vital relationships.

Students can also stay up to date with the latest film festival successes from students and alumni. From screening at Cannes to Tribeca, NYFA’s alums continue to wow us with their determination, creativity, and drive.

Getting Started at New York Film Academy

Want to bring your dream of submitting to film festivals to fruition? Learn more about enrolling in a long-term filmmaking program at New York Film Academy today! Prospective students can also submit a request information form to connect with an admissions representative.

NYFA Summer Camps at the Beijing Film Academy

New York Film Academy’s Summer Camps for Teens & Kids returns to in-person learning at the Beijing Film Academy this August 2024. Students from across China gather for a week of hands-on learning, exploring their creativity and honing their filmmaking skills.

Dr. Joy Zhu, NYFA’s Executive Vice President for the China Region, inspires students with a speech about the unique opportunities available at the camp. Guided by experienced NYFA instructors, students develop their abilities in directing, screenwriting, camera operation, and editing while forming connections with peers who share their passion for storytelling. The camp concludes with a graduation ceremony where students showcase their short films. This experience celebrates the talent of young filmmakers and reinforces NYFA’s commitment to global education.

Acting for Film 1-Semester Program & Workshops in Italy Running This Fall

Beginning September 22, 2024, NYFA’s campus in the historic city of Florence, Italy will offer credit-bearing semester-length programs and short-term workshops in Acting for Film. These programs are designed to be hands-on and intensive.

At NYFA’s Florence campus, you’ll be immersed in a unique cross-cultural experience with other creative individuals from around the world while challenging yourself in a hands-on, intensive environment. The program and workshops provide a strong foundation in acting techniques, voice, movement, and filmmaking essentials. This comprehensive approach helps students, whether new to acting or looking to brush up on their skills, build confidence and expertise in front of the camera.

Acting for Film 1-Semester Program & Workshops in Italy: What You’ll Learn

In NYFA’s hands-on Acting for Film programs, students learn the fundamentals of acting and how to apply them to the screen. Through on-camera exercises and film shoots, students learn to strengthen their audition skills and how to apply new techniques to elaborate scene work. A few examples of exercises students complete include:

How to create and deliver a monologue.
How to break down your inhibitions to bring multiple dimensions to a role through voice and movement exercises.
How to deliver a scene by acting out scenes from published screenplays and through improv techniques.

Please note that classes are taught in English, and designed for students fluent in the language. Non-native speakers may need to demonstrate their proficiency or participate in NYFA’s English language programs.

Available Acting for Film Programs and Workshops

The acting program and workshops available in Fall 2024 include:

Click any of the above links to learn more, or feel free to reach out to our admissions team for information! To see all NYFA Florence programs, visit our program dates and tuition page.

Who Should Apply

NYFA’s Acting for Film 1-Semester program & short-term workshops in Italy are ideal for a diverse group of students with a passion for film and acting. The programs explore the art and craft of visual storytelling and are ideal for students looking to immerse themselves in an intensive, creative environment. In our experience, there are a range of individuals who would benefit from attending, including:

Study Abroad Students

Students who wish to earn college credits* while experiencing life in a culturally rich and historic city like Florence are a great fit for NYFA programs. The study abroad program is designed to provide a unique educational experience in a creative global setting.

Working Professionals

It’s never too late to pursue your passion! At NYFA Florence, working professionals interested in acting can learn new skills while exploring an international city. Classes are taught by experienced industry professionals who actively work in their respective fields, providing students with valuable insights and ample networking possibilities with their peers.

Gap Year Students

High school graduates who want to take a break before entering college can attend NYFA programs and workshops. Students who want to experience a different culture can get a taste of being out on their own before making a long-term commitment to a school or discipline.

About Studying in Florence

Italy’s enduring beauty and mesmerizing landscapes have long inspired artists, poets, and dreamers. From the rolling hills of Tuscany, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, to the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, where vibrant cliffside villages overlook the sparkling Mediterranean, the country provides an ideal canvas for creative expression. Landmarks like Rome’s Colosseum, the exquisite Duomo in Florence, and the romantic canals of Venice all contribute to Italy’s unrivaled charm, making it the perfect setting for some of the most iconic films.

Florence is renowned for its rich cultural and artistic heritage. The NYFA campus is located in a historic building near Piazza Santa Croce, providing an inspiring backdrop for creative work. The city itself, with its art, architecture, and history, serves as a living classroom for students

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NYFA • Visual & Performing Arts College (@newyorkfilmacademy)

In an Instagram Q&A with Diana Santi, Head of NYFA Florence, Diana discussed Florence’s cultural infusion and our hands-on industry approach in Europe – a must-watch if you are considering joining NYFA in Florence!

“It’s fascinating because the city inspired artists for centuries, and the students here can feel it. It’s a magical place,” she said.

Find Your Acting for Film Program at NYFA

NYFA Florence has a range of programs for prospective students to explore! In addition to our programs in Italy, NYFA has similar study abroad programs at other campuses, including a semester-long program at NYFA Australia that is concentrated over ten weeks. NYFA also offers the possibility to learn acting for film from anywhere through a variety of online acting for film workshops.

*Students interested in receiving transfer credits as part of their studies with NYFA should confirm the credit policies with their academic institution as the acceptance of transfer credits is always governed by the receiving school.

NYFA makes no representation that credits awarded by NYFA will be accepted or applied toward the completion of any degree or certificate program by any other postsecondary institution.

To learn if your school has a specific articulation agreement with the Florence campus, please email us at studyabroad@nyfa.edu.

NYFA Alum Jasmine M. Blow Interns for Upcoming Ryan Murphy Show

Jasmine M. Blow, an alum of the New York Film Academy’s (NYFA) MFA Feature Track Filmmaking Program in Los Angeles, recently had the incredible opportunity to intern on a Ryan Murphy TV production. In a recent interview with NYFA, Jasmine shared her experience on the show, the lessons she learned, and the excitement of working behind the scenes on a major Hollywood project.

NYFA Alum Jasmine M. Blow Interns for Upcoming Ryan Murphy Show

Landing an internship on a Ryan Murphy production was a dream come true for Jasmine. With the guidance of her NYFA instructor, Lee Gordon, and encouragement from the head of the Career and Alumni Services Barbara Weintraub, Jasmine polished her resume and quickly secured an interview.

“I’ve always been a fan of his work from American Horror Story to Ratched and, of course, Pose. I HAD to be a part of his latest work,” Jasmine shared. A few short hours after submitting her application, she received an email from Maria, the Production Coordinator, inviting her to interview.

Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life

From communicating with the 1st ADs and Assistant Coordinator to distributing script sides and call sheets, Jasmine experienced the unique rhythm of a production environment. “The production was very much a ‘hurry up and wait’ scenario,” she explained. She enjoyed the flow of tasks and appreciated the opportunities to learn on the job, including file/record keeping, coordinating travel, and even making some unusual pickups—like a wig for a certain NFL player and taxidermy.

One of the most memorable aspects of the internship was the supportive environment, especially working in an office with a majority of women. The camaraderie and bonding, including learning sign language from a colleague named George, made the experience even more special. “The guys in the office were great as well. Doug, George, I love you much! LOL,” Jasmine added.

Jasmine’s Journey to NYFA

Jasmine credits her time at NYFA for preparing her for the demanding nature of a professional set. “I think what I took from NYFA was the level of communication needed to make such a massive ship run effectively as smoothly as possible,” she says, likening a production to a ship where every role, big or small, is crucial. The experience honed her skills in people management, multitasking, and asking the right questions—valuable lessons she carries forward in her burgeoning career.

Jasmine, originally from Santa Ana, California, now resides in Burbank. During the pandemic in January 2021, she decided to refine her skills by enrolling at NYFA. The comprehensive MFA Filmmaking program offered her the chance to delve deep into directing, screenwriting, and production design, her favorite subjects. “I’ve always been a creative, a storyteller, and wanted the formal education to refine those skills I already had and take my creativity to the next level,” she reflected.

Jasmine’s journey from NYFA to interning on a Ryan Murphy production is a testament to her dedication and passion for filmmaking. Her story is an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers, showcasing that with the right education, opportunities, and attitude, dreams can become a reality. And as Jasmine aptly puts it, no job is too small in making the production “ship” stay afloat.

Congratulations on all of your hard work, Jasmine!

Get Hands-on Experience at NYFA

At NYFA, students get hands-on experience creating films from their first day of class. This experiential and immersive approach allows students to gain practical skills by writing, directing, shooting, and editing their own films, as well as working on their classmates’ projects. This method helps students build a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process through real-world experience.

Ready to learn more about the NYFA experience? Request more information today!

NYFA Hosts Beijing Film Academy for Co-Production Workshop

From July 8-17, 2024, the New York Film Academy (NYFA) welcomed graduate students and faculty from the Beijing Film Academy to its Los Angeles campus for an immersive co-production workshop. This initiative underscores NYFA’s commitment to fostering global educational exchange and providing hands-on film training.

Graduate students and faculty from the Beijing Film Academy at the NYFA Los Angeles campus for a Co-Production Workshop.

The workshop covered key areas of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and post-production, culminating in the production of a short film. This successful partnership, which originated in 2015 and resumed this year, highlights the creative synergy between American and Chinese filmmakers. The workshop and partnership reinforce NYFA’s dedication to advancing the art of visual storytelling through cross-cultural collaboration in film education.

MFA in Producing Alum Helen Sun Wins at One Earth Film Festival

Helen Sun, a recent MFA in Producing graduate of the New York Film Academy, and fellow filmmaking student Laura Malatos, tied for the Sally Stovall Award for Creativity in the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest for their short film Throwaway Living. With a prize of $1,000, this top award will be shared with Bohdana Bihdan, a student filmmaker studying in Plymouth, England, who won for her film Ocean Monologue. The contest is a part of the Chicago-based One Earth Film Festival, currently in its 11th year.

About Helen Sun’s and Laura Malatos’ Throwaway Living

Throwaway Living is a 4-minute film that portrays a 1950s housewife praising the convenience of plastic products, such as disposable plates, plastic-wrapped sandwiches, and disposable diapers. The story takes a twist when she receives an ominous phone call from the future, warning her about plastic.

In their submission, Sun and Malatos explained, “Our short film ‘Throwaway Living’ is a farcical satire, inspired by real post-war advertisements that heavily pushed plastic as the new way of living. Looking back on them through the lens of today’s plastic pollution catastrophe, they are both absurd and frightening. We made this film to emphasize this tragically pivotal corporation-driven push while shining a light on the current plastic crisis. . . . But as with most of our work, we wanted to package this heavy topic into colorful entertainment and dark comedy to invite more people into this conversation.”

Throwaway Living will also receive an Environmental Action Award of $500 from Beyond Plastics. Each winner will also receive a matching gift of $500 to donate to a non-profit that aligns with the theme of their film. Sun and Malatos split their donation between the Plastic Pollution Coalition and Beyond Plastics.

The One Earth Young Filmmakers’ Content

The One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest invites students aged 8 to 25 to create a 3- to 8-minute environmental film that inspires action or change. Animated or stop-motion films must be at least 45 seconds long. The annual submission deadline is June 25. Starting in January 2025, a jury of 31 film and environmental experts will evaluate the submissions. Learn more about the jury and reserve tickets here. The call for entries for the 2025 contest will open soon on Film Freeway.

Reserve tickets at tinyurl.com/yfc24awards.

Over the past year, the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest received 400 submissions from 55 countries and 36 U.S. states. Winners include representatives from Australia, Brazil, India, Indonesia, Poland, and the United Kingdom. The Global Award Celebration will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 22, at the Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago or virtually anywhere in the world. A special screening will also be available for those in the Asia/Pacific region. Adam Joel of Aggressively Compassionate will host the event, introducing the winners before their films are premiered.

Submitting to Environmental Film Festivals

Film festivals with an environmental theme play a crucial role in raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and inspiring action on environmental issues. Here are a few film festivals where aspiring filmmakers can submit their environmental films to!

Environmental Film Festival in DC (DCEFF)
Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Nevada City, California
Planet in Focus Environmental Film Festival in Toronto
Colorado Environmental Film Festival (CEFF) in Golden, Colorado
Frome International Climate Film Festival in Frome, England
Environmental Film Festival Australia
UK Green Film Festival

These festivals provide platforms for filmmakers to showcase their work on environmental topics and for audiences to engage with pressing ecological issues through the medium of film. Please note that this is not an all-encompassing list, and some festivals may have specific requirements for submission.

NYFA students can learn more about the film festival submission process by working with our Film Festival Department. To learn more about attending NYFA, request more information today!