By: Sarah Morton
For over a decade, Cinemagic has been a transformative force in Los Angeles, offering extraordinary opportunities in film and television to countless young individuals. Collaborating with major film studios and production companies, Cinemagic has forged partnerships with LA schools, nurturing a culture of collaboration and mutual development. “From our inaugural program in LA in 2010, we’ve championed the idea of schools working together, achieving common goals despite diverse backgrounds,” says Cinemagic.
Through a myriad of innovative programs, Cinemagic has ignited the creative potential of LA’s youth. A recent collaboration with the Hawthorne School District to produce a short film is particularly noteworthy. “The project featured a broad array of masterclass talks covering all facets of film production, emphasizing learning, networking, and significant personal growth to help students realize their dreams,” Cinemagic explains.
One of the standout successes from these initiatives is the 2023 short film “Heaven on Earth.” Created in partnership with the British Consulate Los Angeles, the film addresses climate change from the viewpoint of a young activist. It draws inspiration from Heaven Watson, a student from LAUSD’s Jordan High School, who has become an environmental advocate while contending with various environment-related health issues. Heaven’s personal campaign against environmental and pollution challenges in her community formed the film’s core. “We were thrilled to bring this story to life and raise awareness across educational, arts, and political spheres,” Cinemagic shares.
Photo Courtesy: Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Jane Owen PR for Cinemagic
Cinemagic designs its workshops and projects to reflect the rich cultural diversity of LA’s student population, focusing on universal themes such as the environment, friendships, mental health, and resilience. The participants’ ideas drive these workshops and films, providing young people a platform to voice their opinions and share their experiences. “We concentrate on common bonds, celebrating diversity and what makes students unique while also understanding differences,” Cinemagic emphasizes.
The organization’s commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in the robust relationships they build with educators and the meticulous tracking of student progress. Cinemagic not only monitors students’ achievements but also delights in observing their transformation in energy, enthusiasm, and self-belief from the start to the end of each project. “We love hearing about students who have pursued their ambitions after receiving a bit of encouragement from Cinemagic speakers and guests who share their stories and help them persist in their passions,” Cinemagic notes.
Photo Courtesy: Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Jane Owen PR for Cinemagic
Industry professionals and mentors are central to Cinemagic’s programs, providing firsthand insights into the creative industries. Their involvement is crucial, as they share real-life experiences and engage with students to understand their interests and goals. “Their engagement is interactive, allowing them to converse with many students to gauge their interests and personal goals, sharing invaluable advice and insights,” Cinemagic remarks. This year, guests included Emmy-winning TV Producer Jillian King (Rachael, Red Table Talk), Warner Bros Entertainment EVP Dan Dark OBE, ITV Correspondent Ross King MBE, Production Sound Mixer Peter Devlin (Black Panther, Star Trek), and entertainment business affairs executive Shelley Reid.
Cinemagic ensures its programs are accessible and inclusive for all students in LA schools by offering opportunities free of charge, removing financial barriers. Regular consultations with educators, students, and partners ensure their offerings remain relevant and inclusive. “Our LA programs are free of charge, with no financial barriers to entry, and the environments we operate in are inclusive and welcoming to all students,” Cinemagic emphasizes.
Looking ahead, Cinemagic remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering creativity and diversity. With plans to expand their annual filmmaking projects and strengthen collaborations, they continue to empower the next generation of storytellers. By regularly consulting with educators to ensure their projects complement the curriculum and address themes and issues important to young people, Cinemagic fosters a supportive environment that values inclusivity and personal growth, ensuring all students in LA schools have the opportunity to explore their passions and achieve their dreams.
Published by: Holy Minoza
