On February 27, 2025, the New York Film Academy proudly co-presented the North American Premiere of “My Teacher and Me” with Xiamen University. This documentary explores how education can break the cycle of poverty, highlighting the transformative impact of learning on individuals in China.
The event brought together Prof. Xiaohong Li, Deputy Dean of the School of Film at XMU, and Wanyu Liu, Deputy Director of the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange at XMU, alongside Dan Mackler, Senior Vice President/CSO/Dean of NYFA Los Angeles, and Dr. Joy Zhu, NYFA Executive Vice President for the China region. Representatives from the Education Office, Chinese Consulate in Los Angeles, also attended, underscoring the importance of global collaboration in film education.
Beyond the screening, the visit deepened the partnership between NYFA and Xiamen University. The delegation toured NYFA’s Los Angeles campus and the Universal Studios backlot, engaging in meaningful discussions on future academic and cultural initiatives. This exchange further strengthened ties between the two institutions, laying the groundwork for new opportunities in education and filmmaking.
In an inspiring and thought-provoking guest speaker event, renowned actor Andre Royo visited the New York Film Academy (NYFA) at the New York City campus to offer students and faculty insight into the world of acting, storytelling, and the entertainment industry. Best known for his compelling portrayal of Bubbles in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire, Royo’s career spans a wide array of television and film roles including shows like Empire, The Path, and How to Make It in America. He is currently venturing into directing and producing.
During his visit, Royo discussed his journey in Hollywood and the experiences that have shaped his career with moderator Darren Dean, NYFA instructor and award-winning Producer, Writer, and Director. Royo talked candidly about his iconic role as Bubbles in The Wire, a character that has left an indelible mark on television history. Royo spoke passionately about the importance of portraying characters with depth, authenticity, and empathy, especially those who are often marginalized or overlooked in mainstream media.
The Wire became a show that helped break through stereotypes and reach a broader audience due to the empathetic and humanizing portrayals of the characters. Royo said that “It became the show that became a social message – if you care about your community, you care about politics, you care about the disenfranchised, then you had to watch The Wire. . . It became a social political show that was a must see for everybody.”
Andre Royo Q&A with faculty member Darren Dean
NYFA students were able to ask questions and Royo took the time to offer invaluable advice to the next generation of aspiring filmmakers, actors, and storytellers. Royo encouraged students to take risks and step outside of their comfort zone. “The only way you learn is to not be afraid to fall. Go out there and leap and take chances,” he urged. He advised students that trusting your team, trusting the collaborative process, and being humble will lead you to become a great filmmaker. “You have to allow magic to happen and to trust your fellow artists.”
Andre Royo’s guest speaker event at the New York Film Academy was a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity, persistence, and passion in the world of entertainment. For NYFA students, it was an important opportunity to learn from one of the most respected actors of his generation.
On February 7, the New York Film Academy (NYFA) welcomed a delegation from the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) to its New York campus. CSCSE, a public institution under China’s Ministry of Education, has long provided comprehensive services for overseas students, returnees, and international students in China while promoting global educational exchange and cooperation.
During their visit, the delegation experienced NYFA’s immersive, hands-on approach to film, media, and performing arts education through a filmmaking class overview, a live musical theater performance, and a photography demonstration. Discussions between CSCSE and NYFA explored potential opportunities for student exchanges and cultural collaboration. The delegation praised NYFA’s dynamic learning environment and its strong support for international students.
NYFA remains committed to expanding global partnerships, enriching students’ educational experiences, and fostering cultural understanding through the arts.
As the clock winds down on 2024 and ushers in a brand new year, now is the perfect time to take stock of our accomplishments.
New York Film Academy (NYFA) alums, students, faculty, and staff continue to amaze us – their collective achievements are no less impressive than what we set out to achieve this year! To recognize these successes, let’s toast one final time with this engaging infographic, which reveals NYFA’s triumphant highlights from the past 12 months!
Meet Pakistani-American writer and director Bob Ahmed, an alum of NYFA’s short-term filmmaking workshop. We recently caught up with Bob to discuss his career and latest project.
1.Congratulations on your success, Bob. Let’s start with your award-winning short, Tikkun Olam, which you wrote and directed.
Tikkun Olam is really close to my heart. It’s about a young boy in D.C. who sees a homeless veteran on the streets and decides to do something small yet powerful to help him regain his dignity.
I moved to D.C. a few years ago, and I remember being struck by the number of homeless people I walked by every day. There was this one moment, though, when my brother saw a homeless man lying unconscious in the street while people just walked by. It really shook me – because I was one of those people who walked by every day. Around that time, I also read an inspiring book, To Heal A Fractured World, which explains the concept of Tikkun Olam—healing the world by helping others beyond your own circle. That was the spark for the film. In 2021, it was recognized by the California State Assembly as “a groundbreaking film” and is now streaming on Amazon Prime.
2. Now you’re working on a new feature film, Adam’s Fire. What is that about?
Adam’s Fire is about a young boy named Adam who is seeking revenge after his mother is killed. But as he forms an unexpected bond with a brave girl and finds spiritual guidance from a wise neighbor, his world is turned upside down. He has to choose between vengeance and something that challenges everything he thought he believed in. It’s a story of growth, self-discovery, and the power of human connection. I feel that the journey Adam goes on reflects the internal battles we face.
3.The film is shot at a beautiful farm in West Virginia. How did you choose this particular location?
I was actually scouting locations in the mountains of Virginia when I got completely lost. My phone died, and I had no reception, so I just kept driving until I stumbled upon this incredible, fairytale-like farm surrounded by misty mountains.
And there, standing like something out of a timeless story, was a fifth-generation, dashing, farm owner – a man whose presence seemed to embody the spirit of the land.
I got out of my car, walked up to him and said, “Hi, I’m a filmmaker, and I want to film a movie here.” And instead of being thrown off the property, he welcomed me in with genuine warmth.
That moment with this farm owner was more than just a chance encounter. It felt like a scene straight out of the story we were trying to tell. The way he carried himself – his kindness towards a stranger, hospitality, and the pride he took in his land – showed a quiet heroism we often overlook. To me, he represented the unsung American heroes that most people don’t know about.
Oh, and it wasn’t until later that I realized I wasn’t even in Virginia at all – I had somehow ended up in a different state altogether – this was West Virginia!
4.What do you hope the audience will take away from the film?
I hope that Adam’s Fire can spark something in people. It’s about trauma, healing, and the power of connection across cultures. I’ve never seen a film explore these themes quite like this before. My goal is for the audience to walk away feeling inspired, thoughtful, and maybe even a little healed.
5.Tell us a bit about working with the actors.
Working with our actors was such a rewarding experience. One of our leads, Chris Alvarez, is a former Navy SEAL, and he had this incredible dedication that rubbed off on all of us. One morning, I showed up five minutes late for our 5:30 AM call time, and Chris didn’t hesitate to discreetly give me an inspiring talk on why being on time is so important – not just for you, but for everyone around you. He taught me that punctuality is a way of respecting the team. From that point on, I made it my mission to arrive before 5:30 AM. On one occasion, I even got there before Chris did! It’s funny how those little moments can teach you so much about discipline and respect.
6.Where are you and your team in the process? What are the next steps?
We’re in the final stages of post-production and hoping to release the movie later this year. This film comes from our teams’ hearts, and I’m especially excited to share it with the NYFA community.
7.Before we let you go, can you tell us how NYFA influenced your film career?
Before going to NYFA, I thought success was all about individual accomplishments. But when I got there, I quickly realized that success isn’t just about personal goals—it’s about connecting with others and having a purpose that’s bigger than yourself. NYFA taught me the importance of community, of working together and creating with others who share the same passion. That lesson has stayed with me ever since.
NYFA wishes Bob all the best as he takes his new project out into the world.
On November 4, 2024, the New York Film Academy’s New York City campus hosted students and faculty from Shanghai Normal University (SHNU) for a one-week documentary filmmaking workshop, Seeing New York. The special program was launched with a signing ceremony between leaders of both institutions, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their ongoing collaboration.
Throughout the week, SHNU students explored the art of documentary filmmaking under the guidance of NYFA faculty, immersing themselves in New York’s vibrant culture and learning NYFA’s signature hands-on approach to storytelling. The workshop concluded with a graduation ceremony where students showcased their completed works, celebrating a week of creative growth and cross-cultural exchange.
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
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Eve Hewson in The Perfect Couple via People
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’sBridge 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.
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