summer film school

Started in 2004, the Summer Film School was created to provide teens the opportunity to learn the art and science of filmmaking.

Over eight weeks in June and July students learn, for example, screen writing, cinematography, lighting, sound, directing, acting and editing. Many students return year after year to hone their skills, reconnect with their SFS friends, and meet the new students who are ready to share their ideas and enthusiasm for creating movie magic.

Consistent with the foundation’s mission, teens learn much more than moviemaking during the summer. With the ultimate goal of unveiling movies for themselves, their friends and families, they also learn how to be supportive team members, patient leaders, effective communicators, excellent organizers and problem solvers. These are skills that will serve them well throughout their lives, at school and on the job. But mainly, they have fun…lots and lots of fun.

The programs concludes in July when students walk the red carpet and premiere their final films on the big screen at an exclusive event and awards ceremony, featuring the coveted “Binny”, at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.

This program is open to the public. Potential students must be entering seventh grade in the upcoming school year (though upcoming twelfth graders), be available for at least six of the eight program weeks, have a passion for filmmaking and a willingness to create, succeed and occasionally struggle in a fast-paced, creative environment.