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
The Doc Lab is a free, seven-month filmmaking workshop that pairs NYC teens 1:1 with professional filmmaker-mentors to tell their stories and have their voices heard.
WHEN: Mondays and Tuesdays • 4:30 - 6:30pm • October 28, 2026 - May 25, 2027
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Fall Supported Lab
The Reel Works Fall Supported Lab is a FREE week-long experimental filmmaking intensive that provides community, support, and resources for neurodivergent NYC students as they explore storytelling through filmmaking.
WHEN: Mondays & Tuesdays • 10:00 am - 3:00 pm • October 26, 2026 - January 26, 2027
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling
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Narrative Fellows
Reel Works Narrative Fellows Program is a free intensive training program for talented young artists 17-21 to specialize in a filmmaking discipline and build a portfolio for college and career success.
Applicants must provide past examples of their work.
WHEN: Wednesdays & Thursdays •
4:30 - 6:30pm • January 7, 2026 - June 26, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 29
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Narrative Lab
The Narrative Lab is a free filmmaking workshop that pairs youth filmmakers 1:1 with professional mentors. Each filmmaker will write, produce, direct, and edit a short 5-7 minute fiction film.
WHEN: Wednesdays & Thursdays •
4:30 - 6:30pm • December 2, 2026 - June 18, 2027
APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 1
Film School Friday
Film School Friday is Reel Works' weekly gathering for NYC teen filmmakers. Every week looks different: talks with industry pros, hands-on workshops, screenings, or events led by our Youth Ambassadors.
You don't need to be in a Reel Works program to join. If you're curious about filmmaking, this is your space to connect with other young storytellers, build real skills, and get inspired.
Film School Friday
A space to learn, create, and connect.
Film School Friday is a weekly drop-in at Reel Works where young filmmakers come together for hands-on support, skill-building, and community.
Are You a Media Professional?
Reel Works pairs NYC teens with professional filmmakers for one-on-one mentoring. Mentors provide weekly guidance in storytelling, production, and career exploration—helping young filmmakers take the next step in their creative journey.
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.
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.”
Interested in After School Opportunities?
Fill out our short interest survey to get updates on Reel Works programs and applications.
Questions? Email mariam@reelworks.org for more information or assistance.