Academy of Cinematic Arts

Because Everyone Has a Story to Tell

Mission

Our mission is to educate youth (ages 8-19) in the cinematic arts, empowering them to contribute to and affect change in a world where moving images have the potential to change lives. Our vision is to create a space where youth can discover a passion for the cinematic arts, sharpen their artistic skills, explore their faith, and hone their ability to tell transforming and transcendent stories that impact and change culture.

Programs

All of our cinematic art programs adhere to State of Ohio standards for Arts education, thereby preparing students with skills that meet or exceed educational expectations in the arts. Throughout both the school year and summer, we offer programs at our studio space in Liberty Township as well as on-site at partner schools and/or youth programs. Our programs include:

• After School Enrichment Program (ASEP) –ASEP Film workshops are designed to deepen students’ knowledge and understanding of the cinematic arts. ASEP topics include Screenwriting, Acting for Film, Film Production, Film Studies and more. Each ASEP is 1.25 hours/week for six weeks and serves up to 25 youth a session. ASEPs are offered for grades 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 at participating schools.
• Cinematic Arts Courses – Semester courses in Film Production, Film Studies, Broadcast Journalism, Acting, and Screenwriting enable up to 20 students/per class to learn about digital storytelling. Students can apply to the State fo Ohio for art credit.
• Summer Camps – In June, we offer 1-week/2-week summer camps at the 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, and 9th-12th grade levels, enabling youth to pursue their passion in a fun environment. Camps include Acting for Film, Screenwriting, Film Production, and an Advanced 2-week Film Camp. 
• Director Series – The Director Series provides youth with both a social and educational experience to screen films over dinner and learn about directors, movie themes, actors, screenwriters, and more. 
• Fall | Winter Workshops. Three-hour workshops enable youth to take a deep dive into film production, film theory, film appreciation, and screenwriting as they explore digital storytelling as a cinematic art form. Workshops are offered during the Fall and Spring semesters.
•  Teen Film Challenge (TFC) – In its 8th year, the TFC competition empowers youth to collaborate in small groups to create a film in 72 hours. The competition is held annually in August. The film screening and awards ceremony is held at a local theatre to celebrate the students’ achievements.
• Golden Lion Awards Student Film Festival (GLASFF) – In its 14th year, the GLASFF is open to Cincinnati and Midwest youth ages 8-19. The competition enables student filmmakers to improve skills, learn from industry professionals, and receive recognition for their cinematic artwork.