AFTER SCHOOL
Reel Works offers free, after school filmmaking programs for NYC teens. Each lab provides mentorship from professional filmmakers and hands-on experience in storytelling, production, and editing. Explore our programs below and take the next step in your creative journey.
Upcoming Programs
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Doc Lab
Intro to Documentary Filmmaking
A hands-on workshop where NYC high school students (ages 13–19) learn the fundamentals of documentary filmmaking — from concept to final cut. Students will create and premiere their own original short films.Eligibility: NYC-based high school students, ages 13–19
Schedule: Mondays & Tuesdays, 4:30–6:30 PM
Dates: October 2025 – May 2026 -
Narrative Lab
Narrative Filmmaking Lab
Write, direct, and premiere your own original short film in a supportive, collaborative environment.Eligibility: NYC-based high school students (ages 14–19) with prior filmmaking experience
Schedule: Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:30–6:30 PM
Dates: January – May 2026
Watch student films
See what Reel Works students create! Watch short films made in our after school programs and get inspired to start your own journey. Watch the films today
Chidiogo Igboekwe, Narrative Fellows Alumni
“As a director, I learned how to advocate for myself and my creative vision. With my mentor’s guidance, I realized the importance of listening to feedback while also standing firm and explaining why certain ideas mattered to me. That experience taught me how to communicate my perspective clearly and collaborate while still championing my vision.”
