CINEMA ST LOUIS

Empowering Missouri’s Future Filmmakers

Cinema St. Louis (CSL) ‘s new education initiative offers structured, hands-on training in screenwriting, directing, editing, cinematography, and film analysis. Through project-based learning, Students create and screen their original short films, gaining real-world experience and creative confidence. The program also emphasizes career readiness, connecting participants with industry professionals through internships, masterclasses, and one-on-one mentorship.

Key Programs

Cinema for Students:

Expanding our education program through film in schools since 2003, beyond the St. Louis International Film Festival.

Cinema for French Students

- A partnership with the American Association of Teachers of French. During the 17th annual Robert French Film Festival, hundreds of students from all over St. Louis will watch and discuss the documentary “Anais” from filmmaker Hélène Hadjiyianni in their classrooms.

School field trips & educational classroom screenings aligned with Missouri standards.

- Study guides, filmmaker Q&As, and cultural explorations through film.

- Designed to build media literacy and critical thinking.

Monthly & Seasonal Workshops:

Beyond education opportunities during CSL’s annual film festivals, CSL also offers film education through camps and workshops.

AGES 8 – 18 (All classes are free)

Spring Break Film Academy (March 17–21): Half-day workshops for kids ages 8–18.
Summer Film Camps (July 7-11): Half-day animation film camp for kids ages 14-18 in partnership with St. Louis Public Library.
Showcase Summer Camp (July 21–25): Learn the basics of animation, screenwriting, or documentary filmmaking with Cinema St. Louis during the annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase Film Festival. These camps are for kids ages 8-18.

AGES 15+ (The fee for these classes covers the instructor and partner venues)

Monthly Intensives: Deep dives into cinematography, directing, and more.
- Introduction to Storyboarding for Filmmakers (April 26).

Special Partnerships:

Manga & animation camps with the St. Louis Public Library.
Stop-motion workshops with Kirkwood Library.
Girl Scouts film workshops and mentorship sessions.

Hi-Pointe Theatre Education Hub:

Monthly school field trips & field trip film discussions.
Works-in-Progress networking sessions.
Student film showcases & guest lectures.

Why It Matters

CSL’s programs provide real-world experience, mentorship, and access to a thriving creative community—all designed to cultivate a sustainable film ecosystem in Missouri.

Missouri lacks affordable, accessible pathways for students interested in film. No Missouri high schools currently offer semester-long filmmaking courses, and only five colleges within 60 miles of St. Louis offer film or digital media degrees, many with tuition costs ranging from $30,000 to $64,500/year. Cinema St. Louis fills this critical gap with accessible, project-based learning that gives young filmmakers the training and mentorship they need to thrive, without leaving Missouri.

With over 11,000 film professionals already based here, and new state production incentives in place, CSL’s educational programs are vital to keeping talent local and growing Missouri’s creative economy.

Contact

To bring these programs to your school or organization, contact Emmett Williams, Festival & Education Director at emmett@burningwish.cyou.