Brooklyn Youth Tell Their Story: Reel Works and Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice Partner on Transformative Filmmaking Program

In a powerful collaboration between Reel Works in Schools and the Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice, thirteen young Black filmmakers from Brooklyn are creating change through cinema. This innovative program empowers justice-impacted youth with professional filmmaking skills while amplifying vital stories from their community.

Empowering Youth Through Film Education

Through intensive hands-on training, these emerging creators are learning every aspect of film production. From scriptwriting to directing, they're gaining valuable technical skills while developing their creative voices. The program demonstrates how film education can serve as a transformative tool for youth expression and professional development.

"I like giving as much creative control to the students as possible. That's the smartest and easiest way to ensure the story will be authentic," shares the program's teaching artist, Makeba Ross. "When the students are collaborating together, the energy in the room is always vibrant and full of excitement. They're excited to tell a story that addresses tough and important themes and provide a creative perspective only they could offer."

"Click": A Story of Choices and Consequences

The students' upcoming film, "Click," explores themes deeply relevant to their community: the cyclical nature of violence, the weight of split-second decisions, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Through the story of Dayday, a young man grappling with loyalty and consequences in Brooklyn, these filmmakers are addressing crucial social issues with authenticity and insight.

"Watching the first table read for the film was amazing," notes Makeba. "You could see based on everyone's performances and reactions how important the film is to them. They're fearless in their self-expression and manage to tell a story that feels both personal and universal at the same time."

Creating Pathways in the Film Industry

This partnership showcases the power of creative education in opening new pathways of opportunity while bringing important stories to light. It represents a meaningful step toward making the film industry more inclusive and accessible to young talent from diverse backgrounds.

Stay tuned for updates on this powerful project. The film will premiere at a special community screening event, the Reel Works Film Festival, and at Paramount Community Day - celebrating these young creators' achievements and the stories they're brave enough to tell.