Mermaids have long since fascinated storytellers, with the first mermaid appearing on film in 1904. This film, simply called The Mermaid, was just four minutes long and featured an unnamed actress. Since then, mermaids and merpeople have appeared in hit films and television shows, including the various Peter Pan films, Splash (1984), Mermaids (1990), Aquamarine (2006), Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011), Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2015), Aquaman (2018), and even the quirky 2019 drama The Lighthouse. Mermaids have also appeared on television shows such as Fantasy Island (1997), H2O: Just Add Water (2006), Baywatch (1989), and Charmed (1998). Mermaids and merpeople are also the focus of many comic books, graphic novels, and video games.
Halle Bailey as Ariel in The Little Mermaid (2023). Image via Digital Spy
Of course, the most famous depiction of mermaids is the 1989 Disney film The Little Mermaid, a family-friendly version of the Hans Christian Andersen classic. In 2023, a live-action remake starring Hailey Bailey was released, to the delight of mermaid enthusiasts everywhere.
The Little Mermaid (2023): Learning The Skills to Bring Fantasy Characters to Life
Bringing a dynamic character like Ariel to life in a realistic way is no easy feat. For filmmakers, screenwriters, and producers, a story such as The Little Mermaid requires bringing audiences into a magical, yet convincing world. Learning how to create fantasy worlds and establish strong and charismatic characters is crucial for aspiring storytellers, and can make a huge impact on their growth as visual artists.
The importance of these skills is why many of NYFA’s Screenwriting programs have students complete a range of projects that teach them the essentials of world-building and character development in film. With this experience, filmmakers can create their own dynamic stories, whether it be about a famous mermaid or a character of their own.
Remaking and Reinventing a Classic
The filmmakers behind the 2023 version of The Little Mermaid did an exceptional job at casting and creating a live-action version of Ariel. Alongside the star-studded cast and captivating music, The Little Mermaid truly highlighted the beauty behind a mythical creature many of us grew up to know and love. When it comes to mermaids, Ariel is usually the first character that comes to mind. We think of her beautiful red hair and how she gave her voice to the Sea Witch so she could be a part of the human world. Halle Bailey did a remarkable job of embracing such a beloved character and making audiences absolutely fall in love with Ariel once again.
Many may see this story as your regular “Happily Ever After” story. However, it is so much more. We see more of Ariel’s true reason for wanting more for herself captivated in the new Rob Marshall live-action. One thing about Ariel that always enamored young girls was her determination to go after what she wanted despite what anyone had to say. She did end up finding love along her journey, yet it was her pure curiosity and need for something more that inspired her decision.
The new take on such a beloved character made this new live-action a true masterpiece! From new songs composed by Alan Menken & Lin-Manuel Miranda to revamped classics, we are taken through Ariel’s journey with subtle nods to the original classic written by Hans Christian Andersen.
The Little Mermaid (2023) also brings a familiar voice to the screen. NYFA Musical Theatre alum Audre Louise Beauséjour voices Ariel in the French version of the film. Ariel, Halle, and Audre all emanate the true essence of standing in your power and not allowing the misunderstanding of others to dictate your own dreams.
Diving Into Reality With MerPeople on Netflix (2023)
We also see this drive and determination within the individuals we meet in the Netflix docuseries MerPeople. MerPeople, a four-part documentary series on Netflix, provides insight into mermaid culture like never before. This series shows a behind-the-scenes look at aspiring professional mermaids and merpeople, diving into the history and the billion-dollar industry of mermaids.
Following the stories of everyone from Hannah Fraser, one of the first professional mermaids, to aspiring mermaids, including Brittany Sparkles, The Blixunami, as well as a number of other mermaid influencers, entertainers, and entrepreneurs.
While the world of professional mermaiding may seem like a dream, the docuseries shows a competitive world where performers struggle to make a living from their art. Relying on events such as birthday parties, renaissance festivals, and appearances at aquariums and casinos, MerPeople must be endlessly creative, innovative, and charismatic. Additionally, like any other aspiring performer, MerPeople must find ways to promote themselves and build a following through Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more.
A shot from MerPeople. Image via People.
Merpeople also depend on pageants and competitions, as shown in the series. They must develop and enhance their “mersonality” or merperson personality. This provides an opportunity for each individual to carve out their own unique approach. For some, this includes using materials recovered from the ocean to build their costumes, and for others, it can even involve the creation of their own original song.
Blixunami is a non-binary mermaid. Image via Netflix.
MerPeople also has connections to NYFA, as NYFA Photography Instructor Andreanna Seymore served as an Executive Producer. Current NYFA Cinematography student and Photography alum Odinger Mitchell and Photography alums Aashish Chandratreya and Alexandra Schaefer also all worked on the series.
Bringing Stories to Life at NYFA
Many students use their experience at NYFA to learn how to tell their own magical and captivating stories. Whether it’s a documentary film, fictional television show, or graphic novel, the possibilities for telling an engaging story are endless! Learn more about NYFA and our programs by requesting more information today.
The Blair Witch Project (1999), Donnie Darko (2001), and Little Miss Sunshine (2006) are all great independent films with something in common: they all premiered at film festivals. For filmmakers who aspire to exposure for their projects, submitting exceptional projects to film festivals can be a great way to connect with production companies, get press about their films, and reach audiences. At NYFA, many of our students choose to submit their work to festivals, including NYFA Australia alum Alex Free and NYFA Australia student Mariam Hassan.
This year, the two filmmakers join the ranks of previous NYFA Australia students with projects selected for the Gold Coast Film Festival in Queensland. The annual twelve-day festival began in 2002 and is an AACTA-Award qualifying festival for feature films. Every year, the festival features exceptional international and Australian films and has hosted a number of Queensland premieres.
This year, the festival will host the Queensland premiere of Polite Society, starring Priya Kansara (Bridgerton, 2020) and Ritu Arya (Red Notice (2021), The Umbrella Academy, 2019). Image via gcfilmfestival.com.
NYFA Australia at the 2023 Gold Coast Film Festival
NYFA Australia Filmmaking Diploma alum Alex Free has been selected as the finalist for Gold Coast Film Festival Emerge!, the festival’s student film category. His film, Things That Are Beautiful and Transient, is about a young man who seeks to capture a photo of a rare and fleeting sight. To accomplish this, he accepts help from an unexpected guide. It will screen on April 26th.
Cinematography and Film/Video Production student Mariam Hassan‘s film Choice is under Sipfest: Gold Coast Film Festival’s Shorts In Paradise and will screen on April 29th. The film centers around a woman who experiences the loss of her husband during a protest against the oppression of women in Iran. The screenings are an exciting opportunity for both students to get their work in front of an engaged audience passionate about Australian film. In the past few years, the festival has welcomed guests that include Simon Baker, Sigrid Thornton, George Takei, Dolph Lundgren, Kellan Lutz, and Margaret Pomeranz.
“NYFA Australia’s talented alumni and students continue to amaze and inspire our community,” says NYFA Australia CEO Elle Bailey. “Both Alex and Mariam’s films are testaments to their talent, hard work, and foundation in their education in filmmaking, provided by the New York Film Academy Australia’s curriculum and instructors.”
Previous Gold Coast Film Festival Screenings
NYFA Australia students, including Stephen Osborne, Anantha Krishna Raj, and Jackson Fields, had films screened at the 2022 festival. Osborne’s feature film Dome House 6 premiered at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) theater and was a part of the Gold Coast Film Festival’s official selection. Similar to Free, Raj’s and Fields’ short films were also showcased at EMERGE!.
In 2021, Osborne was also invited to screen his feature film Strangeville and competed in the Best Australian Indie Film category. The film included many cast and crew members who attended NYFA’s Gold Coast campus. NYFA Australia alum Josh Hale was also selected to screen his feature film at the 2021 Gold Coast Film Festival. Hale’s film House of Inequity was featured in the ‘Dark Nights and Fantastic Fans’ group. The film also credits several NYFA Australia alumni and faculty members, highlighting the importance of connecting and networking with peers throughout film school.
Pursue Your Passion for Film at NYFA Australia
Film school is an incredible opportunity to pursue and polish your passion projects, and NYFA congratulates Alex and Mariam on their success this year. To learn more about the programs offered at NYFA Australia in filmmaking, acting, and more, request additional information today!
We at NYFA are beyond excited by the recent news that our faculty member and 1997 filmmaking program graduate, Manuel Billeter, is now a member of the prestigious American Society of Cinematographers (ASC). In honor of Billeter’s achievement, we will highlight his experiences with NYFA, both as a student and an instructor, along with his rise through the cinematography ranks and his award-winning repertoire.
A native of Switzerland, Billeter grew up watching films in local cinemas¹. Driven by his admiration for filmmakers such as Bernado Bertolucci, Federico Fellini, and Michelangelo Antonioni, Billeter decided to pursue a career in cinematography¹. After graduating from Freie Universität Berlin with his degree in cinema studies¹, Billeter discovered NYFA when the school was still in its formative years. He enrolled in NYFA’s filmmaking program in November 1996 and subsequently graduated in 1997. Shortly before graduating, Billeter was offered a teaching assistant position with NYFA, and started his faculty experience at NYFA during the summer filmmaking program at Yale University in 1997. He saw his NYFA experience as “an incredible opportunity” to accomplish his long-term goal of pursuing a filmmaking career in the United States. After the summer program ended, Billeter became a full-time NYFA faculty member, managing the school’s equipment room and teaching students basic camera, lighting, and production workshops.
In an interview with NYFA, Billeter talked about his collaborations with and hands-on support of students. He said, “I would go and help them on their projects and be an additional crew member – when a crew was understaffed.” Billeter also helped organize NYFA’s international summer programs in Paris and at Cambridge University in 1998, 1999, and 2000, continuing to provide students with hands-on experience in camera, lighting, and production workshops. It was during Billeter’s time at NYFA that he made his cinematography debut with the short film The Book of Last Pages (1998) ¹. He also served as a camera assistant for the film Shopkeeping (1998) ¹.
After a few years teaching at NYFA, Billeter decided to pursue a cinematography career in earnest. He became a camera assistant for films including Si’ Laraby, Horror, Indian Fish in American Waters, and Second Best². At the same time, Billeter set two goals for himself: the first to become a DP (Director of Photography) and the second to hopefully become a member of the ASC within twenty years.
Billeter served as director of photography for various notable TV series, including Law & Order (2009-2010), Person of Interest (2012-2014), and Orange is the New Black (2015). He gained recognition for his work on Marvel-Netflix shows like Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, and The Punisher, adapting his cinematographic style to suit the distinct themes of each series while maintaining a consistent aesthetic across them. In 2019, he worked on The Affair, focusing on its perspective-driven look, and contributed to Ozark in its third season, aiming to preserve its established visual style. More recently, he was Director of Photography for FBI: Most Wanted, Inventing Anna, and The Gilded Age, and made his feature film debut with Cat Person in 2023. After years focusing on TV and film projects, Billiter returned to NYFA as a cinematography instructor in a summer program in Paris, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with his colleagues and share his expertise.
In a recent interview, Billeter discussed the ways in which cinematography has changed, but also has stayed the same, over the past twenty-five years. When asked how new technologies have changed filmmaking, cinematography, and related roles, Billeter noted that his current students were already savvy editors before they even began the course, having a lot of experience with taking videos and a basic knowledge of cinematography from their interactions with smartphones and social media.
But Billeter said, “I think the storytelling aspect is kind of unchanged. Telling stories is such an old tradition, and I would say, a necessity of humanity. Whether it’s in writing, prose or in song . . . there’s always this story. Telling stories or making up stories seems to be a foundation of human culture and passing on knowledge and identity.”
In September 2024, Billeter officially joined the ASC, achieving a goal he had set back in 2003. He had first heard about the ASC during his time as a student at NYFA in the late 1990s. Billeter deeply feels that he has achieved an important career goal when he was invited to join this prestigious organization, saying that the American Society of Cinematographers “is a longer standing organization in the film business, so being part of such a venerable society is definitely an honor . . . It’s such an honor, it’s humbling. It’s also something that I’m very proud of as well.”
New York Film Academy would like to thank Manuel Billeter for sharing his time and experience with us in a recent interview. Once again, we also congratulate Billeter on his membership into the American Society of Cinematographers.
Ah, the holidays! Many a childhood home will be descended upon by adult children and extended family, and many will find themselves cozied up to the TV (or computer screen) under a blanket with a variety of streaming holiday movies. And while some of the old standby favorites like It’s A Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street will surely be making their rounds — we’ve got a handy round-up of feel-good films that’ll keep your sleigh bells ringing.
With everything from beloved classics to exclusive newer movies on streaming platforms, there’s truly a film for everyone this holiday season. Here are some of our favorite holiday films.
Warning: Spoilers ahead!
1. Home Alone (1990)
Starring: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
Directed By: Chris Columbus
Synopsis: The night before he’s to join his family on vacation to Paris, Kevin McCallister (Culkin) is banished to his room after a fight with his brother, where he wishes his family would all disappear. He wakes up the next day only to discover that his wish has come true! It turns out his family had forgotten him in their mad dash out the door to vacation. But it’s not all peace and quiet: a pair of burglars (Pesci, Stern) have set their sights on the McCallister home. For the next 75 minutes, we follow Kevin as he fends off the goofy yet menacing duo, getting to know a lonely neighbor and helping him reconnect with his estranged son.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: What’s cuter than Macauley Culkin in footed pajamas setting elaborate booby traps to a soundtrack of classic holiday tunes like Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree”? And nothing says warm and fuzzy like John Candy as the “Polka King of The Midwest” cramped in the back of a crowded van reflecting on the meaning of family and relationships. This movie lays it on thick with nostalgia, all while reminding us all of what it was like being a kid. You’ll enjoy cozying up to this on your parents’ couch with some eggnog.
Available on: Disney+
Also Watch: Jingle All The Way (1996), The Christmas Chronicles (2018), Uncle Buck (1989)
2. Elf (2003)
Starring: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Mary Steenburgen
Synopsis: Will Ferrell is over-the-top-hilarious as the heartbreakingly naive elf who, upon learning of his true identity as a human, sets on a quest to find his biological parents while changing the hearts of hardened cynics along the way.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: Buddy’s relentless optimism and good cheer bouncing off Faizon Glover’s deadpan makes for some hilarious and memorable scenes. And if Will Ferrel in an elf costume trying to hug a raccoon in Central Park doesn’t make your belly ache with laughs — you’ve got a heart of coal! This movie is packed with the kind of humor we’ve come to expect from Ferrell while still exploring the grand themes of belonging, family, and acceptance. It’s the kind of film that will deliver the magic you’re looking for, and you can watch it over and over again.
Available on: HBO Max, Amazon Prime
Also Watch: Miracle on 34th Street (1994), Fred Claus (2007), A Christmas Story (1983)
3. Last Holiday (2006)
Starring: Queen Latifah, LL Cool J
Directed By: Wayne Wang
Synopsis: When the perpetually cautious and predictable Georgia Byrd gets a diagnosis that says she has three weeks to live, she decides to go to the Czech Republic and blow her life savings to live opulently and seek out her hero, Chef Didier. Along the way, she meets high-profile individuals who mistake her for a wealthy, hence in their eyes, important individual.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: Loosely based on a 1950 film of the same name, Last Holiday, is a wonderful reminder to live life to the fullest. Georgia learns how to live in the moment and pursue what she really wants in life instead of playing it safe.
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Also Watch: The Holiday (2006), Love Actually (2003)
4. Spirited (2022)
Starring: Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds, Octavia Spencer
Directed by: Sean Anders
Synopsis: In 2022, Will Ferrell gifted us with another to-be holiday classic, Spirited. A modernized, musical version of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol,” Spirited is the story of The Ghost of Christmas Present (Ferrell) trying to turn miser Chris Briggs (Reynolds) into a good person.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: This film brings us back to the days of Elf when Ferrell played a character full of holiday spirit. His efforts to make Briggs see the good in himself and others is a great holiday reminder to be grateful and present. Octavia Spencer is a delightful addition to the film, playing a sweet co-worker to Briggs that Ferrell’s character “Present” also becomes quite sweet on.
Available on: Apple TV
Also Watch: The Family Man (2000), It’s A Wonderful Life (1946), The Santa Clause (1994), Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
5. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Starring: Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, and Snoopy
Directed by: Bill Melendez
Synopsis: Looking for an iconic film to introduce to the nieces and nephews that’ll even Grandpa and Grandma near? Look no further than this old, reliable, based on Charles M Shulz’s comic strip, Peanuts. When Charlie Brown grows disenchanted with the over-commercialized version of Christmas, he embarks on a quest to discover its true meaning, facing ridicule and loneliness in the process. While everyone from Linus to Snoopy seems to be obsessed with their own interests, Charlie seeks counsel from Lucy, who recommends getting involved in a play as a cure for depression.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: It’s animated, it’s set to an award-winning jazz soundtrack, and it includes a sobering moment where Linus delivers a monologue on the true meaning of Christmas, ending it with “And that’s the true meaning of Christmas, Charlie Brown,” that will really get you into the mood. Waterworks alert: if you’ve got a single sentimental bone in your body, it’s the kind of film that you can create new memories with every year.
Available on: Apple TV
Also Watch: The Muppet Christmas Carol (2002), The Polar Express (2004), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
6. Happiest Season (2020)
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Mary Steenburgen, Allison Brie, Dan Levy, NYFA alum Aubrey Plaza
Directed by: Cleo DuVall
Synopsis: Kristen Stewart plays Abby, who is newly engaged to her long-time girlfriend Harper (Mackenzie Davis). She’s excited to meet Harper’s family for the first time when they go home for the holidays, only to discover that no one knows that her girlfriend is gay and that they are in a committed relationship.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: This film joins other LGBTQ+ holiday films that touch on issues of identity, self, relationships, and trust, which can be especially prevalent around the holidays. We see Harper’s fears and insecurities through her actions and the pain it causes Abby, all with holiday traditions and typical family dynamics blended in. The movie shows us how this time of year can unite families, and at the end of the day, the most important thing is love and happiness.
Available on: Hulu
Also Watch: Just Friends (2005), The Family Stone (2005), Four Christmases (2008)
7. The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
Starring: Whitney Houston, Denzel Washington, Courtney B. Vance, Gregory Hines
Synopsis: A dedicated pastor (Vance) of a struggling church in a poverty-stricken neighborhood neglects his wife Julia (Houston) and son as he responds to the many needs of his parishioners. Pressured to sell the church property to a real estate developer (Hines), a desperate prayer for help is answered through Dudley (Washington), an angel sent by God to help the pastor.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: If Whitney Houston’s angelic voice singing “Who Would Imagine A King” doesn’t make you sentimental, God rest your sorry soul. While the story of a struggling Baptist minister sets the stage for a divinely inspirational, gospel music-filled score led by the late Ms. Houston, it’s a dreamy and romantic film where you’ll find yourself willing a romance between Houston and Washington to happen. And don’t be surprised if you’re compelled to order the soundtrack. It will add a little something extra to the ambiance around the table this year.
Available on: Disney+ Also Watch: Almost Christmas (2016), Last Christmas (2019), Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
8. Falling for Christmas (2022)
Starring: Lindsay Lohan, Chord Overstreet
Director: Janeen Damian
Synopsis: Glee and Mean Girls fans rejoiced when Falling for Christmas hit Netflix. Starring Lindsay Lohan and NYFA alum Chord Overstreet, the film features Lohan as a hotel heiress, Sierra, who gets amnesia during a skiing trip. Overstreet comes to her rescue as the dashing Jake Russell, a local inn owner and single dad who offers to put her up until she gets her memory back. Romance ensues.
Why It Makes Us Feel Warm and Fuzzy: Besides the return of Lohan, the film also features funny and charming characters such as Sierra’s pretentious yet goofy fiance, Tad Fairchild (George Young), and a local ice fisherman and outdoorsman Ralph (Sean Dillingham).
Available on: Netflix
Also Watch: Holidate (2020), The Noel Diary (2022)
Celebrating The Season With Streaming Holiday Movies
Whether you prefer to binge-watch holiday specials or hit up the Hallmark channel, there’s nothing better to celebrate the festive season than a great film. Here at NYFA, we wish you a fun and happy holiday and a wonderful new year!
On November 11, 2024, the New York Film Academy (NYFA) proudly participated in the annual Veterans Day Parade held in New York City, honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation’s military members. The event, a longstanding tradition in the heart of Manhattan, saw a strong turnout of NYFA veterans, staff, and students who marched in solidarity, showcasing their commitment to supporting the veteran community.
The parade began at East 25th Street and proceeded up Fifth Avenue, covering a mile-long route that ended near East 45th Street. It was an incredible display of patriotism, with over 150 vehicles and 25 vibrant floats making their way through the iconic New York City streets. Marching bands, military units, and various veteran’s organizations brought an energetic spirit to the event, creating a memorable experience for the thousands of spectators lining the avenue.
NYFA veterans joined other veteran groups, proudly carrying the Academy’s banner and representing the diversity and strength of the institution’s military community. The presence of NYFA’s contingent was a testament to the school’s ongoing commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for veterans transitioning into the creative arts industry.
“Participating in the Veterans Day Parade is a meaningful way for us to honor our community’s service members,” said Jerod Taylor. “It’s a moment of unity and respect, where we can show our appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices made by our veterans.”
NYFA’s involvement in the parade highlights the school’s dedication to recognizing the contributions of its veteran students and alumni. With a strong veteran’s support program, the Academy continues to provide valuable educational opportunities tailored to the unique needs of those who have served.
The parade, one of the largest Veterans Day events in the country, concluded in the area of East/West 45th Street, between Sixth and Madison avenues. Participants and spectators alike were moved by the powerful display of camaraderie, patriotism, and respect for those who have served our nation.
NYFA looks forward to continuing its tradition of honoring veterans, not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year by offering programs and initiatives that support their transition into civilian life and the creative industries.
Chances are, you have seen MGM’s iconic 1939 musical film The Wizard of Oz at least once, if not several times. Based on the first of fourteen Oz books written by L. Frank Baum, this classic movie is undoubtedly the most famous adaptation of his work¹. However, Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has also spawned numerous other adaptations on stage and screen². In celebration of The Wizard of Oz’s 85th anniversary, and the upcoming release of Wicked’s film adaptation, let’s follow the Yellow Brick Road on a journey through the magical land of Oz.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
One of the most iconic films ever produced, this MGM musical classic stars Judy Garland as Dorothy, alongside Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow, Bert Lahr as the Brooklyn-accented Cowardly Lion, Jack Haley as the Tin Man, and Frank Morgan as the titular character³. In his 1996 review of the film, Roger Ebert wrote that the film’s switch from old-timey black and white to color upon Dorothy’s arrival in Oz especially resonated with audiences in 1939, when color films were still a novelty⁴. Meanwhile, the film’s glorious Old Hollywood style of special effects, memorable songs including “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “If I Only Had a Brain,” and the actors’ laid-back performance style have contributed to its appeal through the decades⁴. Although it lost the Best Picture Oscar to another MGM classic, Gone with the Wind¹, The Wizard of Oz nevertheless won two Academy Awards⁵ and became an iconic American film, which it remains 85 years after its original release¹.
Wicked (2003)
Based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel Wicked: Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, this musical prequel to The Wizard of Oz made its Broadway debut at the Gershwin Theatre for a preview run on October 8, 2003, before officially opening on October 30 that year¹³. Telling the story of Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West, and her unlikely friendship with Glinda, the Good Witch of the North, the musical became an instant success despite some initial skepticism from critics¹⁴. Audiences not only loved the catchy, soul-stirring music and spectacular production, but its core themes of acceptance, friendship, and standing up for oneself as well¹⁴. It should not come as a surprise, then, that Wicked has remained a Broadway favorite, celebrating its 20th anniversary last year¹³.
Wicked also holds a special place in our hearts at NYFA because our own Kristy Cates, director of the Musical Theatre program at NYFA New York, starred as Elphaba not only on Broadway, but also in the Chicago production and on the musical’s first national tour. In short, Wicked has left audiences spellbound for over two decades and continues to enchant them today.
Kristy Cates, chair of NYFA’s Musical Theatre program, as Elphaba in the musical, Wicked.
Return to Oz (1964)
Produced by Crawley Films for Videocraft International, later renamed Rankin/Bass Productions, this made-for-TV animated film is a sequel to both the original book and the 1939 film⁶. In Return to Oz, Dorothy reunites with her friends the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion (named Socrates, Rusty, and Dandy Lion in the special) ⁶. When the Wicked Witch of the West returns to life and subsequently robs Socrates, Rusty, and Dandy of their brain, heart, and courage, respectively, Dorothy is once again transported to the land of Oz⁶. Here, she must team up with her friends and restore the gifts given to them⁶. Although largely forgotten since its 1964 debut, Return to Oz is a lighthearted animated romp for kids and adults alike.
Journey Back to Oz (1972)
Much like Return to Oz eight years earlier, the 1972 animated film Journey Back to Oz is a sequel to the iconic 1939 movie⁵. In a fitting tribute to her mother, Judy Garland’s daughter Liza Minnelli stars as the voice of Dorothy⁵. Meanwhile, Margaret Hamilton voiced Auntie Em thirty-three years after her infamous performance as the Wicked Witch of the West⁷. Other veteran actors including Milton Berle, Mickey Rooney, Danny Thomas, Paul Lynde, and Ethel Merman brought their trademark charisma, class, and nostalgia to the film, making a must-watch for any fans of these legendary performers⁷. Delivering their lines with the humor and verve befitting their backgrounds in vaudeville, Broadway, and Hollywood’s golden era, the voice cast lend a magical touch to the film’s journey through the already magical land of Oz⁷.
Not to be overlooked, Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen’s score – including twelve original songs⁶ – is rich and theatrical, even if not as instantly iconic as the 1939 film’s soundtrack⁷. In summary, despite a few continuity snarls and animation errors⁷, Journey Back to Oz is a fun, heartwarming tale guaranteed to delight audiences both young and old.
The Wiz (1978)
Based on the hit Broadway musical of the same name, The Wiz reimagines Baum’s classic story with an all-star African American cast². Diana Ross stars as Dorothy in this adaptation, joined by a young Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow, Nipsey Russell as the Tin Man, Ted Ross as the Lion, and legendary comedian Richard Pryor as the title character⁸. In a departure from the source material, the story opens in 1970s Harlem, New York City, rather than on a farm in Kansas⁸. Other sets featured in the film suggest a variety of NYC locales, from Coney Island to subway stations and school playgrounds⁸. Meanwhile, Ross’s Dorothy is a 24-year-old teacher instead of the young farm girl depicted in the books and 1939 film⁸. Additionally, The Wiz features more than twenty memorable songs, all with a distinct Motown flair⁹. The lively costumes and spectacular special effects also add to the film’s appeal⁸. By taking a slick, lively, and fun approach to a beloved tale⁸, The Wiz quickly gained a legion of loyal fans, and remains a favorite more than 45 years after its silver screen debut.
Return to Oz (1985)
Released during Disney’s 1980s attempt to diversify beyond its trademark family films, Return to Oz is a follow-up to the original books and a loose sequel to the 1939 film¹⁰. Unlike its predecessor, Return to Oz adapts the source material in a darker, scarier fashion¹¹. The film starts six months after the MGM musical, with Dorothy (played by Fairuza Baik) still dreaming about her adventures in Oz¹⁰. However, her Auntie Em and Uncle Henry misinterpret these dreams as her dissociation from reality¹⁰. They then visit a Victorian-era mental hospital, where Dorothy is given electroshock therapy and transported back to Oz¹⁰. Dorothy finds Oz in shambles, with the Yellow Brick Road and Emerald City mere ruins of their former selves¹¹. Joined by two new companions, Jack the Pumpkinhead and a wind-up man named Tik-Tok, Dorothy must defeat the Nome King and a new witch – Mombi – to return Oz to its former glory¹¹. Although Disney’s Return to Oz lacks the songs and timeless charm of its predecessor, the film’s special effects – a combination of animatronics, Claymation, and puppetry – create a more elaborate depiction of Oz than the one shown in the 1939 musical¹¹. Meanwhile, despite mixed reviews from critics and a poor box-office performance¹⁰, Return to Oz was nominated for an Academy Award in 1986¹². If you are a fan of dark fantasy films like Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, as well as an Oz aficionado, then Return to Oz is for you.
The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz (2005)
This charming television movie modernizes the classic story and adds plenty of Muppet antics but otherwise remains faithful to both Baum’s original novel and the 1939 film⁵. Kermit the Frog plays the Scarecrow in this adaptation, with Miss Piggy as all three Witches⁵. The Great Gonzo appears as the Tin Thing (replacing the Tin Man) and Fozzie the Cowardly Bear replaces the Cowardly Lion⁵. The film’s human cast is equally star-studded, including singer Ashanti as Dorothy, plus David Alan Grier, Jeffrey Tambor, Queen Latifah, and Quentin Tarantino⁵. Although nowhere nearly as iconic as the 1939 MGM musical, The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz is a comedic romp sure to please young and old alike.
Tin Man (2007)
A spiritual successor to both Oz books and the 1939 film, this three-episode miniseries puts a futuristic spin on Baum’s iconic tale¹⁵. Tin Man stars Zooey Deschanel as D.G., a waitress, part-time student, and descendant of Dorothy Gale from the original story¹⁵. Instead of the Wicked Witch of the West, D.G. must battle the sorceress Azkadellia with help from her three friends¹⁵. D.G.’s friends are also given expanded backstories in this adaptation. For example, Glitch (played by Alan Cumming) is a former royal advisor who once had his head removed, replacing the Scarecrow in the series¹⁵. Meanwhile, the Cowardly Lion is replaced with a psychic empath named Raw (Raoul Max Trujillo)¹⁵. Furthermore, the titular character – played by Neal McDonough – is a former police officer repeatedly forced to rewatch his family’s destruction while trapped in an iron suit¹⁵. The three-part miniseries won 14 awards¹⁵, including a Primetime Emmy in 2008¹⁶. In summary, Tin Man blazes its own futuristic path down the Yellow Brick Road, entertaining audiences with its steampunk-inspired, sci-fi spin on the classic tale.
Oz the Great and Powerful (2013)
A prequel to both Baum’s novel and the iconic 1939 MGM musical, this film stars James Franco as circus magician Oscar Diggs, who magically finds himself transported from Kansas to the land of Oz¹⁷. Upon his arrival in Oz, Diggs is set on finding fame and fortune, thinking they are ripe for his taking¹⁷. However, he quickly meets three witches – played by Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, and Michelle Williams – who convince Oscar that he is unfit to become the Wizard of Oz¹⁷. Oscar then transforms from a slick, selfish entertainer into the great and powerful wizard¹⁸. Additionally, while Oz the Great and Powerful lacks the memorable songs and timeless appeal of its predecessor, its advanced special effects and subtle homages to the original (including a switch from old-fashioned black and white to color, plus a shift from the Academy picture ratio to modern CinemaScope) make it a worthy prequel¹⁸. In short, Oz the Great and Powerful is a must-watch for any Oz fan.
Wicked (2024)
Based on the award-winning Broadway musical of the same name, the silver-screen adaptation of Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda¹⁶. Jeff Goldblum appears as the Wizard of Oz, while Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, and Bowen Yang add to the film’s all-star cast¹⁹. Like the Broadway show, the film version of Wicked follows Elphaba through a series of life events, wherein she becomes known as the Wicked Witch of the West¹⁹. Set for theatrical release on November 22, Wicked is a can’t-miss film event for Oz fans.
With seemingly countless adaptations in film, television, and musical theatre through the years, The Wizard of Oz has stood the test of time since Baum’s first Oz novel was published nearly a century and a quarter ago. Whether you are drawn to the timeless charm of the 1939 MGM musical film, The Wiz’s memorable songs, or the friendship-driven narrative and over-the-top theatrics of Wicked, there is an adaptation of the classic story for everyone.
Study at NYFA If you are an aspiring storyteller passionate about the art of musical theatre like Kristy Cates, or you enjoy bringing stories to life on film, consider one of NYFA’s many academic programs. We offer degree programs, certificates, and workshops in a variety of disciplines, including acting for film, cinematography, filmmaking, producing, screenwriting, 3D animation and special effects, and more. No matter which program you select, you will learn the fundamentals of your chosen discipline in a hands-on setting. To learn more about NYFA’s academic programs, click here!
For many, fall holidays and weekends offer opportunities to gather with friends and loved ones and be thankful for what we have — and of course, to enjoy delicious food! While spending some quality time with family, why not put on a great movie? Even the weeks leading up to the holidays can be an opportunity to curl up with a blanket and turn on a festive film. From dramas to comedies, there are a ton of great movies to watch in fall.
Food & Family: Great Movies to Watch in November
Whether you’re looking for a film to watch on Thanksgiving Day or looking to get into the “sweater weather” spirit, check out our favorite fall and Thanksgiving-related movies. (For a full listof movies about food and family, click the link below!)
Every family has issues, but no matter how heated such a conversation gets at your Thanksgiving table, it probably won’t be as weird as the dysfunctional family in Pieces of April. This comedy-drama is about April Burns, a young woman living in Manhattan with her boyfriend. Although she’s opted to stay away from family matters, April invites them for Thanksgiving dinner, including her mother, who now has breast cancer. Despite plenty of things going wrong, they still end up having dinner and appreciating the importance of family.
Pieces of April premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was well-received by critics. It earned several awards nominations and won many, including nearly a dozen Best Supporting Actress awards for Patricia Clarkson’s performance.
The Joy Luck Club (1993)
The Joy Luck Club tells stories of mothers and daughters, more specifically, four Chinese immigrant mothers and their daughters, who were all born in America. The mothers are a part of the “joy luck club,” an organization they created for a sense of community, where they speak Chinese and play games. Throughout the film, their daughters, who have never had an interest in the club, begin to learn more about their heritage and their mothers’ previous lives before coming to America.
Flashing from present to past, the film successfully navigates the complex relationships between mothers and daughters.
Scent of a Woman (1992)
This classic film brings Al Pacino and Chris O’Donnell together for Thanksgiving. Pacino stars as the gruff Lt. Col. Frank Slade, a former Army Colonel. Now blind, Slade convinces Charlie, his caretaker, to spend the week of Thanksgiving with him to enjoy everything that life and New York City have to offer. As they wine and dine through the city, Charlie discovers the joys of living life in a bold, exciting way while uncovering Slade’s real objective for the week.
The film is an incredible coming-of-age story, and Pacino shines as the stubborn yet charming Colonel. Just before the new year, Scentof a Woman is a great reminder to appreciate everything you have and live life to the fullest.
Lez Bomb (2018)
Audiences rejoyced the 2020 holiday release of Happiest Season, a story about a woman bringing her girlfriend home for the holidays. The filmLez Bomb, released in 2018, tells a similar story but takes place around Thanksgiving. The movie, which stars and was directed and written by Jenna Laurenzo, is about a girl who plans to come out to her family during Thanksgiving. However, her plans change when her friend Austin shows up, and her parents mistake him to be her boyfriend.
An iconic American comedy film, Planes, Trains, & Automobilesstars comedy legend Steve Martin as Neal Page, an anxious marketing executive just trying to get home for Thanksgiving. But after a run-in with a goofy curtain ring salesman named Del Griffith (John Candy), what should have been a two-hour trip ends up taking three days.
After accidentally ending up in Wichita, the duo is forced to work together to arrive home in Chicago before Thanksgiving. The humor in the film often comes from Neal losing his temper while Del makes things worse by making mistakes that make their adventure even longer. This is one of those must-watch Thanksgiving-themed films where, if you haven’t seen it, now is definitely the time!
Soul Food (1997)
Soul Food is a wonderful movie for anyone who wants to watch a film about family and food. After the matriarch of their family passes away, the Joseph family slowly falls apart. The film is told through the perspective of Ahmad (Brandon Hammond), Big Mama’s grandson, who feels it is his responsibility to keep the family together. At the risk of losing their Sunday dinners, but more importantly, their family home, the family must pull together and overcome inner conflict.
Starring Vivica A. Fox and Vanessa Williams, Soul Food is a reminder of togetherness and the complications that can come with being a close-knit family. While the film doesn’t take place during Thanksgiving, the focus on family is what makes it one of the best movies to watch in November.
Grumpy Old Men (1993)
Looking for a Thanksgiving movie that will have you and the family laughing together? If so, Grumpy Old Menis the perfect romantic comedy-drama film that stars Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, two legendary actors, real-life best friends, and Academy Award winners. They play two retired and single old men who live next door to each other in Minnesota.
Despite being childhood friends, they started resenting each other when one “stole” the other’s high school sweetheart and married her. Now, they insult and pull cruel jokes on each other while sharing their mutual love of ice fishing. Their feud becomes more intense when an attractive elderly woman moves in across the street, which they fight to attract as Thanksgiving comes around.
Grumpy OldMen was a surprise hit that grossed $35 million above its budget. The film was praised for avoiding political and social issues while still delivering a funny experience.
The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)
The Hundred–Foot Journey, starring Manish Dayal, Om Puri, and Helen Mirren, is a heartwarming film about culture, tradition, family, and food. After an Indian family moves to France to open a restaurant, they find stiff competition across the street in the form of a traditional, Michelin-star French restaurant. The patriarch of the family (Puri) finds himself toe-to-toe with the prim Madame Mallory (Mirren), who insists that her French cuisine is superior to his traditional Indian dishes. Hassan (Dayal), the family’s eldest, finds himself stuck in the middle.
If you love cooking and Indian food, this film will definitely get your stomach growling.
Addams Family Values (1993)
While this may not be considered a Thanksgiving movie, it has two excellent components: a loving family and a hilarious Turkey Day-themed play. The film depicts a scene where Pugsley, dressed as a turkey, and Wednesday, dressed as a Native American Indian, share the truth about the origins of the holiday – much to the horror of the preppy counselors of their summer camp.
Again, not a traditional Thanksgiving weekend film, but the choice to include a scene that touches on the background of the Native American Indians and Pilgrims provides a welcomed alternative to other Turkey Day stories.
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Home for theHolidays is another one of those films that teach us that even the most divided families can realize the value of being together. In this film, a single mom named Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter) loses her job and flies to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with her parents in Baltimore.
Chaos ensues when family members with contrasting opinions share the dinner table. This includes a highly-conservative sister, spoiled nieces and nephews, the eccentric Aunt Gladys, and more. As tensions rise, the festivities get out of hand. But in the end, this film reiterates the themes of family union, peace, and thankfulness that sometimes come only through hard-won effort — but are always worth it.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
While this isn’t technically a movie, this beloved family TV special is a must for every holiday season. The episode aired in 1973 and brings the Peanuts gang together for dinner. Peppermint Patty invites herself and her friends over to Charlie Brown’s for a Thanksgiving feast. Only, he hasn’t prepared one. The friends do their best to muster all the traditional trappings of the holiday — with the help of Lucy, Snoopy, Woodstock, Marcie, Franklin, and Linus.
A classic that people of all ages can enjoy, this episode is only 30 minutes long, which is exactly the perfect length to wait between the turkey and the pumpkin pie.
More Fantastic Movies to Watch in Fall
Alice’s Restaurant (1969)
The Big Chill (1983)
She’s Gotta Have It (1983)
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Dutch (1991)
Son in Law (1993)
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Brothers McMullen (1995)
The Ice Storm (1997)
One True Thing (1998)
Stepmom (1998)
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
What’s Cooking? (2000)
Remember the Titans (2000)
Autumn in New York (2000)
Sweet November (2001)
Antwone Fisher (2002)
Funny People (2009)
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Julie & Julia (2009)
Tower Heist (2011)
Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Free Birds (2013)
Black Nativity (2013)
Krisha (2015)
Mistress America (2015)
Almost Christmas (2016)
Little Women (2019)
The Farewell (2019)
Knives Out (2019)
The Turkey Bowl (2019)
Friendsgiving (2020)
The Humans (2021)
Happy Fall from NYFA
Whether your fall traditions involve watching a favorite film, playing football, eating turkey, or something entirely different, we at the New York Film Academy wish you a very happy fall. Did we miss any? Let us know!
Stare too long at NYFA alum Aubrey Plaza, and you can’t help but feel a little disturbed. It’s not that there’s anything outward about her appearance that would do it, just the sense that she is, in a way, always shifting, never fully in focus – much like the characters she portrays. Plaza is an actress that thrives on chaos, and like a millennial Meryl Streep, she has harnessed the chaos of our modern world to craft roles sometimes comedic, sometimes dramatic, sometimes from another planet – all while deliciously defining what it means to be a “vibe.”
Aubrey Plaza Movies and TV Shows: Our Favorites
From her breakout role as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation to her recent plaudits for Emily the Criminal and The White Lotus, Plaza has built a career out of zigging where anyone else would zag, giving even her smaller roles an unexpected quality that makes them instantly memorable. With an upcoming role in the series Agatha: Coven of Chaos, her star is likely to shine even brighter as she joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Plaza in Emily the Criminal, via Dazed.
Whether playing a foul-mouthed barista, a lovelorn zombie, or an obsessive social media fan, Plaza brings it every single time. Here we take a look at ten performances that punctuate a career that is the perfect balance of raw talent and unpredictability.
Parks and Recreation (2009 – 2015)
Plaza’s first big splash was as the sardonic April Ludgate on the beloved comedy Parks and Recreation, where her just-left-of-kilter attitude and withering insults made her a perfect counterpoint to Leslie Knope’s sunny disposition and Andy Dwyer’s moronic earnestness. By the end of the series, Plaza had morphed April into an extension of every young person who struggles to find their passion and purpose in life, bringing depth to the character without ever losing the wry personality that made her so instantly iconic in the first place.
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
In the psychedelic video-game environment of Edgar Wright’s comic adaptation Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, where superpowered vegans fight with bass guitars and anime twins generate giant dragons out of sound, it might be hard to stand out. However, Plaza’s Julie Powers makes an instant impression when she shows up to accost Scott at a coffee shop with every curse word covered by a black bar over her mouth and a loud honk. It isn’t the largest role, but Plaza puts everything she has into every withering look Julie throws Scott’s way, making her a memorable part of a movie chock-full of outsized characters.
Megalopolis (2024)
In Megalopolis, Aubrey Plaza joins an ensemble cast that includes notable actors like NYFA Guest Speaker Adam Driver, Forest Whitaker, Laurence Fishburne, Jon Voight, and Nathalie Emmanuel. The sci-fi epic follows Driver as Cesar Catilina in a plot that Plaza describes as “very, very dreamlike, and scary.”
via People Magazine
“There is, in my opinion, some scary imagery and some nightmarish qualities to it, but in a beautiful and unforgettable way,” Plaza said in an interview. The film premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
Life After Beth (2014)
If a loved one became a zombie but still said they loved you, would you be able to shoot them in the head? That question forms the silly core of the zombie rom-com Life After Beth, which finds Plaza playing the titular character who succumbs to a snakebite and reanimates into a slowly decaying walking dead. Her boyfriend Zach seems to think that this is no impediment to their relationship, and even as Plaza amps up Beth’s slow transformation into a full-fledged walker, he maintains his optimism. The comedy itself is a little hit-and-miss, but Plaza’s commitment to Beth’s metamorphosis is a must-watch.
The Happiest Season (2020)
In Clea Duvall’s queer romance The Happiest Season, Plaza pulls off one of the most difficult and fiendish tricks in cinema – upstaging the main character. The film follows Kristen Stewart’s Abby and her girlfriend, Mackenzie Davis’ Harper, as they visit Harper’s family for the holidays. But Harper isn’t out to her family, and Abby is forced to pretend they aren’t together. Plaza’s Riley – an ex of Harper’s who went through a similarly difficult situation – becomes a needed sounding board and shoulder, and Plaza brings such warmth and wisdom to the character that there was quite an outcry when Abby didn’t wind up with Riley by the time the film was over. It’s a credit to Plaza’s abilities that she created such a compelling character well beyond what was in the script.
Black Bear (2020)
Lawrence Michael Levine’s Black Bear isn’t an easy film to describe, as it’s two narratives – one real, one imagined – all taking place at the same time, with Plaza’s Allison the broken linchpin holding it all together. Plaza shifts from femme fatale to emotionally broken mess to vivid dreamer, putting on a masterclass in chameleonic transformations.
As the film plumbs the depths to which we sink to make art, Plaza plays with a darkness missing from many of her other roles, creating her own mesmerizing art in the process.
Legion (2017-2019)
Anyone who watched Noah Hawley’s Legion, loosely based on Marvel’s X-Men comics, could be forgiven for wondering exactly what the hell was going on – and a lot of that confusion would center around Plaza’s Lenny. As the close confidant of Dan Stevens’ David Haller, Lenny appears in reality and in his mindscape in a host of different forms, eventually even serving as a host for Amahl Farouk, the vicious Shadow King. Plaza is essentially playing several roles at once, bringing a different texture to each character, making the only thing certain in this twisty televised tale the brilliance of her performance.
Safety Not Guaranteed (2012)
Between Parks and Recreation and Scott Pilgrim, Plaza had established herself as a reliable dose of deadpan snark that would fit in almost any comedy. Colin Trevorrow’s Safety Not Guaranteed was the film that proved Plaza wasn’t just a supporting player but a star in her own right. Her magazine intern Darius is tasked with getting to know Mark Duplass’ possibly-crazy time-traveler Kenneth, and while their early interactions are reminiscent of what we expect from April Ludgate, her growing warmth and excitement over the course of the film are infectious.
Ingrid Goes West (2017)
Plaza does double-duty on Marc Spicer’s Ingrid Goes West, producing the film as well as portraying the title character, a troubled woman who goes from chasing the dopamine high of engagement on social media to literally chasing an influencer across the country to become her friend in person. In Ingrid, Plaza plays awkwardness personified, extracting uncomfortable comedic beats from the script but never losing sight of the fact this is a woman suffering from a borderline personality disorder. It’s a tour de force in front of and behind the camera.
The White Lotus (2022)
Mike White’s The White Lotus anthology series follows the lives of the ultra-rich while on holiday, and the second season featured Plaza as Harper, wife of Will Sharpe’s Ethan, together a nouveau riche navigating a disappointing and fumbling marriage as they vacation with friends. Once again, in a show built as an ensemble, Plaza finds her way to being a standout, and her character’s actions left audiences talking long after the season finale. But it’s the story of her and co-star Meghann Fahy getting lost on a hike while high on mushrooms that personifies the chaotic art Plaza brings to every set. The show is by far, one of the best in our curated list of Aubrey Plaza movies and tv shows.
Emily the Criminal (2022)
An early poster for John Patton Ford’s Emily the Criminal set the internet ablaze with a rumor that Plaza was playing Lara Croft – and after seeing her performance in this gritty crime thriller, it’d be easy to see her raiding a few tombs. The eponymous Emily is a young woman trying to deal with crushing debt but unable to get a job who turns to a life of crime to pay off her art-school loans. It’s crime-drama-as-millennial-fever-dream, with Plaza anchoring the twists and turns with a tangible realism relatable to anyone who’s ever panicked over how the next bill was getting paid.
Polish Your Acting Skills at NYFA
Want to develop your unique and memorable characters? NYFA offers a variety of short-term and long-term programs in Acting for Film that can help you achieve your goals. Our acting students gain invaluable hands-on experience by acting in their classmates’ films and creating their own content, providing them with a comprehensive and practical hands-on education. Request more information today!
In 2022, the global media and entertainment market was valued at approximately $2.32 trillion and is expected to grow to $4.2 trillion by 2031. For aspiring filmmakers, content creators, screenwriters, and performers, this is great news – the industry is thriving! It’s the perfect time to pursue that passion project, write that screenplay, or brush up on auditioning and acting skills. With opportunities like NYFA’s short-term workshops, it’s possible to gain hands-on, practical experience in a number of creative disciplines.
Why Attend A NYFA Short-Term Workshop
From Aubrey Plaza to Bill Hader to Issa Rae, a number of high-profile visual storytellers honed their craft in a short-term program at NYFA. Over the years, NYFA has expanded its short-term workshop offerings to include programs at our New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Florence campuses, as well as online programs and additional international satellite locations.
Here are some reasons creatives choose to attend New York Film Academy for intensive workshops.
Essential Storytelling Skills
When it comes to a successful film or television show, the story is essential. The story is at the heart of some of the most recent award-winning and highly acclaimed films and shows, such as The Book of Clarence (produced by NYFA alum Tendo Nagenda) and Oppenheimer (starring NYFA board member Matthew Modine, amongst an all-star cast).
Nour Idriss, who completed a short-term Broadcast Journalism workshop at NYFA New York, cited hands-on storytelling as a strength of her program. “I was able to learn how to make a story,” Nour said in a review for NYFA. “You have to shoot it, write it, edit the story, produce it. This challenge and this short deadline it keeps you in the run, it keeps you creative.”
Flexibility for Working Professionals
NYFA’s evening part-time workshops accommodate creatives with responsibilities during the day. From our 12-Week Evening Filmmaking Workshop to our 12-Week Evening Photography Workshop to our 12-Week Evening Acting For Film Workshop, creatives can acquire a lot of knowledge in these programs, which likely include time spent on the weekends. Depending on the discipline, evening workshops are offered at NYFA New York, NYFA Los Angeles, and NYFA Miami throughout the year.
Ability to Foster Creative Community
The film, media, and entertainment industry is highly collaborative, and fostering a supportive creative community is key. Take the directing duo known as “The Daniels,” Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, who made history with the film Everything, Everywhere, All At Once (2022). The collaborative Oscar-winners once worked together as NYFA camp counselors at our Harvard location, making their first short film during a summer camp.
For Niki Landella, a short-term musical theatre workshop alum, it was the people she met at NYFA, especially instructors, who were keys to a positive experience. “Each and every teacher encouraged me to trust myself more, and I think this has something to do with the success that they have already experienced in their lives,” Niki wrote in a review for NYFA. Both our in-person and online workshops are great for creatives looking to meet possible connections, whether it’s fellow students or faculty.
Master Basic Skills
From vital film vocabulary to essential skills, NYFA workshops can provide students with confidence that they’re learning a new skill or interest effectively. While there are ample resources out there, a short-term workshop at NYFA ensures that aspiring storytellers learn the fundamentals the right way from the start of their creative journey. Lana Osicka, who attended a short-term workshop in Acting for Film, “learned about movement, film and television, monologues, comedy and improvisation, and scene study.”
“I even starred in several student films,” she said. “I learned so much that I never knew about the art of acting.”
Hands-on Projects and Exercises
NYFA’s workshops are designed to help students create a lot of creative content in a short amount of time. During the programs, students work independently and collaboratively (depending on the program type and disciplines) on short films, scenes, scripts, games, and more. For creatives looking to add more to their portfolio or make their first reel, a workshop can be a great way to get started.
Perfect for Exploring New Interests
For creatives between jobs or students taking a gap year before college, workshops can be great for exploring new interests and strengthening technical skills. Workshops can also be incredibly useful for finding new inspiration and making progress with creative projects. Isabelle Ajemian, a NYFA acting for film workshop alum who studied at NYFA Florence, admits that before her program, she “was strictly a live theatre actor with an interest in film.” After her program, she wrote in a review for NYFA, she gained experience in film with “an understanding of cinematography, footage for reels, and network connections with classmates and professors.”
“Studying in Italy has been incredible and it was the perfect place from which to draw inspiration as an artist and see how impactful art can be to our culture and history,” she said.
In the modern age of branding, filmmakers and performers need more than just talent to find success. In many cases, they also need to have a significant online presence. Many of our workshops teach students basic video content skills, including filming, editing, acting, and much more, helping actors and directors create their own short clips.
NYFA’s workshops are great for creatives looking to make a name for themselves across industries. While directors are drawn to filmmaking classes and actors are drawn to acting classes, there are a range of additional workshops that can aid in the development of a visual artist. NYFA’s Digital Editing workshops, for instance, are extremely useful for content creators and actors. As students learn how to use software such as Avid (depending on the program), creatives and performers can make and edit their own reels, video content, and portfolios.
NYFA’s Producing workshops can help content creators and filmmakers gain an introduction to the business of film, providing priceless insight into marketing, budgeting, distribution, and financing.
Go Beyond DIY Learning
So many tutorials and videos online teach everything from filmmaking to photography – but DIY skill-building can only go so far. In a short-term workshop, students can build on their natural talent and elevate themselves professionally. NYFA teaches industry standards and best practices, and students can acquire vital knowledge about permits, applications, fellowships, grants, and more.
Nathan Williams, who took a “non-traditional route to directing,” credits NYFA’s short-term workshop in Cinematography with helping him “learn the craft and allow me to have more knowledgeable conversations with DPs. It expanded my knowledge, inspired me creatively and gave me more confidence on set – an invaluable resource,” he wrote in a review for NYFA.
Add Structure to Your Creativity
It can be challenging to turn a hobby or interest into a lifelong skill. In a workshop, students can learn how to apply structure and a framework to their creativity. Screenwriting workshop alum Russell Ince, who studied at NYFA Los Angeles, was able to complete his screenplay during his program. “With regards to my screenplay, I owe an awful lot to you,” he wrote in a review for NYFA. “After two more re-writes and some lengthy editing, it all fell into place.”
Get Hands-Online
Online workshops and courses can help aspiring storytellers from all over the world. However, unlike other online courses, in NYFA’s workshops, students meet professors and classmates in the virtual classroom, sharing ideas and collaborating on projects. The online workshops are not just a series of videos to watch and prompts to answer like many other online courses, NYFA’s hands-on workshops are real studio courses in an online environment.
Try Before Making a Bigger Investment
Higher education can be costly. Before signing up for a degree program, a NYFA workshop can be a great way to get a feel for a chosen discipline. The flexibility and hands-on nature of NYFA’s workshop also ensure that students can get a step ahead before pursuing their undergraduate or graduate degree. Depending on the field of study, some workshops may be taken for credit (not guaranteed, please request info to speak with admissions).
Pursue Your Passion at NYFA
Attending an in-person workshop at NYFA offers a unique and intensive learning experience that can significantly benefit aspiring filmmakers, actors, and other creatives. The combination of hands-on training, professional instruction, networking opportunities, and access to top-notch equipment makes these workshops a valuable investment for anyone looking to advance their skills and career in the visual and performing arts.
African film is a rich and evolving art form that reflects the continent’s diversity and resilience. With critically acclaimed films such as the Oscar-nominated District 9 (2009) and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013), and renowned filmmakers like Ramaka Keabetswe Rantoa and John Kani, the future of African cinema continues to be promising, offering perspectives and narratives that resonate worldwide.
African Film: Notable Films, Filmmakers, and Visual Storytelling Initiatives
The breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and compelling stories of Africa make it an incredible location for filmmaking. Films such as Invictus (2009), The Last King of Scotland (2006), The Constant Gardener (2005), Hotel Rwanda (2004), and Out of Africa (1985) were filmed throughout Africa, bringing international audiences into the sweeping scenery of the beautiful continent.
However, the film industry in Africa has a life of its own, releasing a variety of memorable and compelling films. Major players like Nollywood (Nigeria), South Africa, and Riverwood (Kenya) to emerging regions like Gollywood (Ghana), Swahiliwood (Tanzania), Uganda (Ugawood), and Cameroon (Collywood) continue to contribute significantly to the global film industry, with Africa’s film initiatives helping local storytellers to take the world by storm. Meanwhile, organizations such as the MultiChoice Talent Factory, a partner of NYFA, has a “multi-tiered approach” that includes masterclasses, The MTF Academy, as well as an online portal that provides industry news, networking, and filming opportunities across Africa.
Here are even more examples of the African film industry in action!
(For a whole list of recommended and mentioned films from this article, see our Letterboxd! Please note that for some films, viewer discretion is advised.)
South Africa
In 2005, audiences were brought into the heart of South African cinema with the film Tsotsi. The film was centered around a young Johannesburg gang leader and followed six days in his violent and tumultuous life. Directed by Gavin Hood, Tsotsi won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
The Gods Must Be Crazy, released in 1980,was shot in Botswana and brought international attention to the region. Since then, filmmaking in Botswana has gained momentum, with film festivals such as the Botswana Film Commission (BFC), organizations such as the Thapong Visual Arts Centre, and various educational institutions that provide resources and training for filmmakers.
via Good Housekeeping
In 2024, Steve Harvey, the host of Family Feud, partnered with the Government of Botswana and New York Film Academy (NYFA) for the “Botswana Ignite” initiative. The partnership was designed to support local talent and encourage growth in the Botswana film industry.
“Central to this endeavour are the newly inaugurated Botswana TV Academy, Botswana Wildlife Film School, masterclasses and immersive On-Production Mentorship, all working synergistically to serve as incubators for innovation and excellence in the field,” said Duncan Irvine, the co-founder of Forge Media & Entertainment (Company under Steve Harvey Global).
Senegal
Black Girl is a 1966 French-Senegalese film recognized by the Criterion Collection. Written and directed by Ousmane Sembène, known as the “most renowned African director of the twentieth century,” the film follows a girl from Senegal who becomes a maid to an affluent French family. While a majority of the film takes place in France, the story tackles topics such as race and identity, showing the experience of a young Senegalese woman who is subjected to racism and mistreatment. Viewers should be aware of mature and potentially triggering content in the film.
via Mubi
With celebrated filmmakers like Djibril Diop Mambéty, Moussa Sene Absa, Safy Faye, and Alain Gomis hailing from Senegal, the Senegalese film industry continues to evolve. Thanks to festivals such as the Dakar Court International Short Film Festival and the Moussa Sene Absa Festival, new and emerging filmmakers are bringing fresh perspectives and stories to the global stage.
Nigeria
The Wedding Party (2016) is a Nigerian romantic comedy that became one of the highest-grossing films in Nollywood. “Nollywood”, the Nigerian film industry, is one of the largest and most prolific film industries in the world, known for its rapid production of movies and its significant impact on the African continent and beyond. NYFA alum Kemi Adetiba, a prominent Nigerian filmmaker, television director, and music video director, made her directorial debut with the feature film. NYFA filmmaking and screenwriting alum Banky Wellington (Banky W) also starred in the hit Nollywood rom-com.
via Amazon Prime Video
From genres like drama, comedy, romance, action, and horror, Nigerian film often incorporates Nigerian culture, traditions, and contemporary societal issues. Filmmakers such as Kunle Afolayan, Tunde Kelani, Genevieve Nnaji, and Kemi Adetiba made their mark in Nollywood with beloved, popular, and award-winning films like Lionheart (2018) and Maami (2011). EbonyLife Studios, based in Nigeria, has produced some of the top-grossing Nigerian films, including Òlòtūré (2020) and Fifty (2015). Ufuoma McDermott, a NYFA acting alum, starred in several Nigerian films including Christmas Is Coming (2017), which she also directed.
Nigeria is also a significant part of the flourishing West African film industry, which includes neighboring countries like Benin and Ghana. NYFA alum Sèdo Tossou, NYFA 1-Year Acting program alum, who is originally from Benin, starred in the Canal+ International TV series Black Santiago Club. The series, filmed in Benin, told the story of the famous Congolese band.
Kenya
Riverwood, Kenya’s film industry, is amongst the largest film industries in Africa. With films like Rafiki (2018), which was initially banned in Kenya due to LGBTQ+ themes, the industry continues to release intriguing and bold stories. Critically acclaimed and award-winning films such as Nairobi Half-Life (2012) and Kati Kati (2016), with the latter winning the FIPRESCI Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival, are the essence of this thriving international industry, due to the hard work, creativity, and tenacity of Kenyan directors like David “Tosh” Gitonga and Mbithi Masya.
Bring Your Unique Story to NYFA
In NYFA’s filmmaking, media, and performing arts programs, students develop essential skills in visual and narrative storytelling while building connections and collaborating with faculty and peers. Our degree programs, conservatories, and workshops are crafted to provide students with the foundation needed to create their original scripts, films, and performances, enabling them to pursue their passion in the entertainment industry.
For aspiring and established filmmakers, finding ways to get in front of audiences and industry professionals is key to finding success in the industry. Festivals such as The Cannes Film Festival in France, the Berlin International Film Festival, the Toronto International Film Festival, the Sundance Film Festival, and the Tribeca Film Festival are massively popular, drawing in submissions from aspiring filmmakers from all over the world.
It’s not impossible to get accepted into these festivals, with NYFA alums like Janek Ambros, Fernando Broce, Tabitha McDonald, Meshal Al Jaser, Alex Kahuam, as well as Mariko Ide and Aaron Latta-Morrisette, screening their work. However, these festivals are incredibly competitive, and for new and emerging filmmakers, may not be the best fit.
Top Film Festivals to Submit to
Film festivals are an ideal place for visual storytellers, including directors, producers, cinematographers, screenwriters, and actors, to put their work on display. These events provide priceless promotion for filmmakers while allowing them to network and connect with their peers.
Here are just a few of the many festivals that have proven to be exceptional foundations for filmmakers.
Wyoming International Film Festival
The Wyoming International Film Festival is an independent film festival held in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The festival celebrates film in the Old West, and 2024 marks its 10th Anniversary. While submissions are closed for this year, the event will be held from July 9-14. The 48-Hour Film Festival, a segment of the festival, will screen on July 14th at Laramie County Community College. Selections for this year’s festival include Weave of Culture, A Little Family Drama, Wishful Thinking, and many more.
Recently, the Executive Director of the Wyoming International Film Festival, Rudi Womack, joined Crickett Rumley, Senior Director of NYFA’s Film Festival Department for a conversation. The discussion included insight into how films are judged, advice on how to avoid mistakes new filmmakers make, and what to do once your film becomes an official selection. Womack is an editor, producer, and director who has worked for Marvel, Disney, Lionsgate, and DreamWorks. Filmmakers can learn more about submitting here.
Tallgrass Film Festival
The Tallgrass Film Festival is the largest independent film festival in Kansas and is held annually over a four-day period. The festival also offers the Wichita filmmaking community year-round support and resources and has a program for local aspiring storytellers from 8th grade through high school seniors. The festival accepts films in the categories of Documentary Feature, Documentary Short, Narrative Feature, and Narrative Short. Crickett Rumley, the head of The Film Festival Department at NYFA, is the Panels Director for Tallgrass. For more information about the submission process, prospective submitters can see their website or film freeway.
Raindance Film Festival
As the largest independent film festival in the UK, the Raindance Film Festival is recognized by major film organizations including BAFTA, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and the British Independent Film Awards. This year, the festival occurred from June 19-28 and was held in London’s West End film district. This year’s selected entries included NYFA alum Zhang Chong’s film Green Ocean, which screened at Genesis Cinema in London in the “Shorts Programme: Relative States” section of the festival.
In an interview for NYFA’s alumni network, Chong discussed his inspiration for the film, saying, “I recall overhearing a conversation in my family with a young mother who regretted not being able to continue her studies. She didn’t complain, but there was a sense of confusion in her voice about why she became a mother so young and couldn’t study further. Reflecting on these memories, I realized how the invisible rules of traditional culture constrain people’s thinking.
This became the basis of the film. I began to wonder: If she had another chance to study, what choices would she make? What choices would we expect her to make? Is there a right or wrong in her decisions?”
Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival
Founded in 1983 by Linda Mabalot, the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival is a platform to promote Asian Pacific American and Asian international cinema. As the largest film festival in Southern California dedicated to screening films by and about Asians and Pacific Islanders, the festival is held during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (May). This year’s festival marked its 40th anniversary.
Dark Red Film Fest, created to support a community of filmmakers dedicated to indie filmmaking and enthusiasm for horror is held annually in Albuquerque, NM. The three-day festival accepts both short and feature films and is still accepting films for this year. Founded by NYFA alum Tabitha McDonald, the 2024 festival will be held on October 25-27th, 2024.
Meet Mason & Tabitha McDonald: Commercial & Narrative Filmmakers via SHOUTOUT Atlanta
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Nordic International Film Festival (NIFF). The festival, launched in 2014, is the largest Nordic film festival outside of Europe, and promotes Nordic film, accepting entries from all over the world. The film festival has categories for narrative features and shorts, as well as documentary features and shorts.
New Filmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) welcomes international filmmakers and visual storytellers to submit documentaries, features, as well as short films. The organization, which has accepted 3,000 films from 85+ countries, holds a monthly film festival, with each event centered around a theme. Held at South Park Center, the monthly festival includes the screening of films and Q&As with directors where audience members can have conversations and network. NYFA recently partnered with New Filmmakers, supporting filmmakers all over the world. FilmFreeway provides more information about submitting to New Filmmakers LA.
American Black Film Festival
The American Black Film Festival, which takes place in Miami, celebrates the accomplishments of Black visual artists. The festival features content created by and for individuals of African descent, providing a showcase for filmmakers. Founded in 1997, the festival accepts narrative and documentary features, as well as short films. The festival also hosts The Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project, a competition designed to feature films about Black men as fathers.
Each year, the ABFF conducts networking events, screenings, and awards nights in South Beach, Florida, near the NYFA Miami campus. This year, three master classes were hosted at the NYFA Miami campus, and two were conducted by NYFA instructors Patrice DeGraff-Arenas and Miguel Parga. DeGraff-Arenas’ course, entitled, “Act It Out: Scene Exploration with Patrice DeGraff-Arenas”, was an intensive, two-hour long workshop focused on Acting for Film. Parga’s course, “Low Budget, Big Film: Filmmaking with Miguel Parga,” tapped into the art of filmmaking in a packed room of festival goers and students.
In attendance at this year’s ABFF, Mike Gauyo and Amy Aniobi, writers on hit shows Ginny & Georgia and Insecure, respectively, taught a third master class called, “Write Here, Write Now! A Mock Writers’ Room with Mike Gauyo & Amy Aniobi”, which focused on screenwriting for television. NYFA alum Issa Rae’s Insecure, was the Creative Director of the American Black Film Festival this year and NYFA is thrilled to have the opportunity to reconnect with her. Rae is an alum of NYFA LA’s 4-week filmmaking program from 2005 and with this year’s event, NYFA was able to help support her creative vision for the festival as well as host a writer from her well-known HBO series, Insecure, as a masterclass co-teacher on NYFA Miami’s campus.
Dances with Films
Dances With Films, founded in 1998, screens more than 200 annually, including narrative features, documentaries, shorts, music videos, and web content. The festival is held over 11 days from June 20th to 30th at the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. This year, NYFA alum Andrea Figueroa Chavez, who graduated with a BFA in Filmmaking and was a part of the Gold Rising Program, had the US premiere of her film Lillo at the festival. December 2024 also marks the expansion of the festival to New York City.
Exclusive Interview with Andrea Figueroa Chavez via VENTS
The Colombian Film Festival in NYC was created to support and promote the film industry in Colombia. Founded by Juan Carvajal in 2012, a Colombian filmmaker, the festival has categories for fiction, documentary, and short films. This year, NYFA MFA Filmmaking alum Felipe Holguín Caro screened his film La Suprema, which he directed and co-wrote.
Q&A with MFA Filmmaking Alum Felipe Holguin via NYFA
The film, his debut feature, has had a lot of success in the 2024 festival season, winning the Coral Post award in La Habana and the Silver Colón Audience Award at the Huelva Film Festival. To learn more about submitting to the Colombian Film Festival, filmmakers can follow them on Instagram and visit their website.
The Brooklyn Film Festival
The Brooklyn Film Festival promotes the independent production of films, putting Brooklyn on the center stage of film. Every year, the festival accepts submissions for Narrative Features, Narrative Shorts, Documentary Features, Documentary Shorts, Animation, and Experimental.
Founded in 2012, The Philadelphia Latino Film Festival (PHLAFF) is Philadelphia’s only festival dedicated to Latine/x/a/o filmmakers. The international film festival brings audiences into the unique stories of Latino storytellers, accepting short films, narratives, documentaries, animation, and full-feature films. The festival takes place over the course of a few weeks, with the 2024 festival taking place over six weeks. The event also includes a Youth Salon open to youth under 22 years (see details here), as well as a Cultural Producer Residency Program.
This year, NYFA alum Felipe Holguín Caro screened his film La Suprema at The Philadelphia Latino Film Festival, in addition to The Colombian Film Festival in NY (mentioned above). FilmFreeway has more information about submitting to PHLAFF.
Develop Your Festival Strategy at NYFA
Understanding the process and entry requirements is why NYFA established the Film Festival Department. Matriculated students and NYFA’s long-term program alums who have worked with NYFA’s Film Festival Department have been selected by festivals like Sundance, the American Pavilion at Cannes, and the BFI London Film Festival, winning awards, nominations, and shortlisted for the BAFTA Student Film Awards, the Student Academy Awards, the Directors Guild Student Awards, and more.
Cover image generated with Midjourney AI and logos via Tallgrass Film Festival, Philadelphia Latino Film Festival, Brooklyn Film Festival, and American Black Film Festival.
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