In the realm of entertainment, the future belongs to the young, and Cinemagic ensures this future is bright and dynamic. The Cinemagic Gala for Young People aims to educate and inspire the youth through the power of film and television, offering a diverse range of content and events.
Cinemagic promotes art through film, teaching valuable skills to individuals aged 4-25 and providing numerous opportunities, while also engaging in philanthropic activities. Their offerings include movie screenings, film discussions, and the production of significant content, including two feature films and over 150 short films, along with award-winning behind-the-scenes documentaries.
One of Cinemagic’s most impactful initiatives is its partnership with Los Angeles schools. This collaboration offers classes and a platform for young filmmakers to showcase their work. Since the inception of its first program in 2010, Cinemagic has conducted a range of masterclasses covering every aspect of film production.
These workshops are tailored to universally relatable themes such as mental health, the environment, and friendship. Cinemagic is proud of its commitment to “working towards common goals despite coming from different backgrounds.” Their programs, free of charge, eliminate financial barriers, ensuring accessibility for all students.
Cinemagic works closely with educators throughout the process to provide the best possible education for young people. Regular consultations with educators ensure that the topics and projects resonate with the youth. By maintaining healthy, positive relationships with educators, Cinemagic ensures the consistency and strength of its programs.
Supported by renowned industry professionals, including Emmy Award-winning TV producer Jillian King, Cinemagic delivers quality content and education. They engage with youth on filmmaking projects annually, with no plans of slowing down.
A poignant example of Cinemagic’s impact is the film “Heaven on Earth,” inspired by LAUSD Jordan High School student Heaven Watson. This film highlights her environmental activism and addresses her environmental health concerns. Made in collaboration with The British Consulate Los Angeles and the GREAT Programme, this film exemplifies Cinemagic’s dedication to meaningful storytelling.
Beyond film, Cinemagic is committed to charity work. In Northern Ireland, they combat poverty and hunger by collaborating with local food banks. Partnering with the South Belfast Foodbank, Cinemagic hosts monthly family film screenings at the Ulster Museum, where audiences are encouraged to donate essential items for the food bank.
This initiative has extended into regional communities, educating young people about the root causes of poverty and promoting social justice. Since its launch in January 2022, the project has raised over four tons of food donations, equating to approximately 10,000 meals for local communities in Northern Ireland.
Cinemagic’s influence culminates in its youth film and television festivals held in Belfast, Dublin, Los Angeles, and across Northern Ireland. These international festivals provide a platform for young filmmakers to showcase their work, focusing on youth and social issues. Both competitive and non-competitive, the festivals give a voice to young filmmakers, offering them a chance to participate in the industry.
Looking ahead, Cinemagic plans to continue and expand its initiatives, reaching wider audiences while maintaining its core activities. They remain committed to offering annual filmmaking opportunities and projects for youth. By continually reviewing their goals and educational models, Cinemagic is poised to thrive and inspire for years to come.
