Cinema Inspiration: Teachers Aid in Bringing Students' Film Concepts to Life (Visual Content)
Empowering Teens Through Film: Syracuse University's "Teens With a Movie Camera" Project
In the heart of Syracuse, New York, a unique summer initiative is transforming the lives of high school students. The "Teens With a Movie Camera" project is a four-week community-based filmmaking initiative that empowers teen artists by providing them with university-level film production skills [1][2].
Led by Mišo Suchý, Evan Bode, and Lida Suchy, the project aims to give teens a creative voice, enabling them to develop and express their ideas through film. The themes often emphasize youth perspectives and community storytelling, fostering both technical proficiency and artistic expression among participants.
During the project, teens learn about cinematic storytelling, animation, light and shadow, film editing, and creative sound design. They work closely with Syracuse University faculty who mentor and guide them in turning their ideas into finished films. This approach not only empowers teens by equipping them with practical media production skills but also helps expand cultural and artistic opportunities in the local community without heavy financial barriers [1][2].
The project is assisted by several undergraduate and graduate students from the University's Film and Media Arts (FMA) department. One such student is FMA alumnus Tevvon Himes G'24 and graduate student Shokoofeh Jabbari G'25, who are pursuing film careers. Their involvement in the project provides them with an opportunity to learn more about working with young artists [1][2].
Participants like Laniya Tillie of Nottingham High School enjoy the project as it allows them to express their creative side and create shows that provide comfort to others. Shantell Shallo, a senior at Corcoran High School, joined the project to make new friends and learn filmmaking skills.
The project includes field trips, such as a visit to the University's Holden Observatory to see a telescope made in 1887. The teaser trailer for the project showcases the students' work and previews parts of the completed film.
The project's films will debut on February 7, 2026, at the ArtRage Gallery in Syracuse and be exhibited through March 21 as part of the Syracuse Symposium series. The theme of this summer's project is "Our Place in Space", which explores topics and skills in both art and science.
The "Teens With a Movie Camera" project is supported by various local groups, including the Engaged Humanities Network, CNY Arts Inc., North Side Learning Center, Light Work, Urban Video Project, Syracuse City School District, Nottingham High School, Say Yes to Education Syracuse, the Syracuse University Humanities Center, and is funded by the CNY Arts Grants for Regional Arts and Cultural Engagement regrant program administered by the New York State Council on the Arts, Syracuse Symposium, and a grant from the Central New York Community Foundation.
For Shokoofeh Jabbari, an international student, her participation in the project has been helpful in understanding American culture and norms. Amy Manley, a senior multimedia producer, is responsible for capturing, editing, and producing the videos for the project. Mišo Suchý, the project's leader, believes that working with the teens informs his filmmaking research and fosters collaboration and connection.
The project takes place at the Shaffer Art Building on the Syracuse university campus, providing a vibrant and creative environment for the teens to learn, grow, and express themselves through film. The "Teens With a Movie Camera" project is not just about creating films; it's about empowering the next generation of artists and storytellers.
[1] Syracuse University News, "Teens With a Movie Camera" Empowers High School Students Through Film
[2] Syracuse.com, "Teens With a Movie Camera" Empowers High School Students Through Film
At the Shaffer Art Building, situated on the Syracuse University campus, the "Teens With a Movie Camera" project not only offers high school students an opportunity to create films but also empowers them in lifestyle and education-and-self-development by providing university-level film production skills. This unique summer initiative, led by Mišo Suchý, Evan Bode, and Lida Suchy, encourages teen participants to develop their artistic voice, embracing themes of youth perspectives and community storytelling while fostering technical proficiency and artistic expression.
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