The CSSSA Film Program embraces an auteur-driven philosophy, equipping students with the tools to articulate their unique cinematic voice. Participants will delve into a carefully curated selection of auteur films and benefit from masterclasses led by renowned industry professionals. This intensive program is designed for ambitious, self-motivated students eager to push creative boundaries while honing their critical and artistic perspectives.
Modeled after a collegiate BFA course, the curriculum encompasses the entire spectrum of cinema, from experimental works to the history of pre-cinema. Students gain hands-on experience across all major filmmaking disciplines, including production, directing, screenwriting, cinematography, sound, and editing, guided by an accomplished faculty. They’ll learn to pitch their projects and collaborate on multiple film projects. Collaboration is a cornerstone of the program, offering students a profound understanding of the team-oriented nature of filmmaking.
By the end of the program, students will have developed a strong portfolio to support their applications to esteemed film schools. Explore the CSSSA 2024 students’ film reel and watch the thesis films Junebug and The Party’s In Here for a glimpse into their creative work. Junebug was selected for the SFFILM International Film Festival in the Youth category.
Masterclasses provide students with invaluable exposure to industry professionals. Check out the Cinematography Masterclass with Pawel Pogorzelski, in partnership with ARRI.
Students currently enrolled in grades 8 through 12 are eligible to apply. (CSSSA is open to students entering grades 9, 10, 11 or 12 next fall 2025. CSSSA is also open to students who are graduating from high school in the spring of 2025. You can still do the program the summer after graduation.)
Film Program Curriculum
Narrative Filmmaking
An engaging introduction to storytelling through film, where students craft short fiction pieces inspired by personal experiences. They will delve into the impact of camera work, color, and performance on the narrative. Each student will create two short fiction films.
Documentary Filmmaking
This course examines innovative approaches to non-fiction storytelling, emphasizing how personal, political, and regional issues are conveyed through film. Students will develop individual documentary projects while exploring how cinematography, sound, and editing shape the viewer's perception of truth.
Experimental Filmmaking
An exploration of avant-garde and surrealist cinema, inspiring students to break away from conventional media and express their unique voices through innovative and experimental techniques.
Cinema Theory & Masterclasses
Students explore key films from various genres and movements, discussing filmmaking’s role in giving voice to the voiceless. This course includes insights from industry professionals, with guest speakers like Alfonso Cuarón, Ana de la Reguera, Sharone Meir, Edward Zwick, Pawel Pogorzelski and many more.
Field Trips
The program includes exclusive field trips, such as tours of Sony Pictures Studio, screenings with renowned filmmakers at the American Cinematheque, visits to prop houses, live film shoots, and public screenings of student work in Los Angeles.
Masterclass: Alfonso Cuarón
A deep dive into the filmmaking techniques of the Oscar-winning director of Roma and Gravity. **Please note, masterclass guests change from year to year depending on schedules and availability.
Masterclass: Ana de la Reguera
An insightful discussion with the actress of Nacho Libre and Narcos on her diverse career in film and TV. **Please note, masterclass guests change from year to year depending on schedules and availability.
Masterclass: Pawel Pogorzelski
Award-winning cinematographer of Hereditary and Midsommar shares his approach to visual storytelling. **Please note, masterclass guests change from year to year depending on schedules and availability.