HARLEM
MASTER CLASS

Join legendary filmmaker Jamal Joseph and make history turning your original script into a film masterpiece.

"This is the future of education – a dynamic, vibrant space where learning comes alive through the power of storytelling. For decades, I've been dedicated to sharing our stories through the transformative mediums of theater, film, music, literature, and dance. The Harlem Master Class embodies this vision, creating an intergenerational space where knowledge is passed down, experiences are shared, and the legacy of Harlem is honored. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of this community, a place that has always nurtured creativity, fostered innovation, and celebrated the rich diversity of Black Voices."

- VOZA Rivers

Executive Producer, New Heritage Theatre Group

Installment option available at checkout.

The Harlem Master Class:
A New Stage for Storytelling

Script to Film

PRO PITCH

FILM CREDIT

Welcome to the Harlem Master Class

"This is the future of education – a dynamic, vibrant space where learning comes alive through the power of storytelling. For decades, I've been dedicated to sharing our stories through the transformative mediums of theater, film, music, literature, and dance. The Harlem Master Class embodies this vision, creating an intergenerational space where knowledge is passed down, experiences are shared, and the legacy of Harlem is honored. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of this community, a place that has always nurtured creativity, fostered innovation, and celebrated the rich diversity of Black Voices."

- VOZA Rivers

Executive Producer, New Heritage Theatre Group

INTERGENERATIONAL TRANSFER OF GENIUS

For the first time, we are opening the doors to a living studio where ambitious teens work side-by-side with adult creatives and the architects of Harlem’s cultural legacy.

This is a rare, truly intergenerational space where the wisdom of the Harlem Renaissance meets the innovation of the Digital Age. Under the direct mentorship of industry icons Jamal Joseph and Voza Rivers, students of all ages do not just 'learn the ropes'—they inherit the craft.

Whether you are a teen visionary or an adult honing your voice, you will dive deep into the real-world alchemy of bringing a story to life—from the first ink on the page to the final cut on the screen.

The torch is being passed. Are you ready to carry it

Project 1:
From Script To Film

This year, the Harlem Master Class is all about you. Your inaugural project is an immersive, hands-on experience: to shepherd your unique idea into a film production.

The story of Jamal Joseph, shared in his memoir Panther Baby, offers a powerful blueprint for this journey. It's a raw and inspiring account of resilience, social justice, and the transformative power of education and art. Just as his journey led to an impactful story, we'll give you the tools to turn your own ideas into a reality and develop your story into a stunning creation."


Your Mission:

You will work collaboratively, guided by Jamal Joseph and experienced mentors, to develop a comprehensive package that could attract producers and funders to turn your project into a feature film. This project will challenge you to think creatively, strategically, and practically about the film industry. 

Project Phases:

Phase 1

Deep Dive & Story Analysis

September - October
Read "Panther Baby" by Jamal Joseph: This is your foundation. Read critically, taking notes on key events, character arcs, emotional beats, and thematic resonance. Character Breakdown: Identify the core characters and their motivations. Discuss their journeys and how they evolve. Thematic Exploration: What are the central themes of the book (e.g., social justice, identity, resilience, systemic oppression, the power of education)? How can these be translated visually? Initial Vision & Tone Discussion: As a group, discuss your collective vision for the film. What genre best suits the story? What mood and tone do you want to convey?

Deliverable:

A comprehensive "Panther Baby" reader's guide, including character analyses, thematic outlines, and initial visual ideas.
Phase 2

Screenwriting Foundations & Scene Development

November - December

We'll start with the fundamentals of writing for film. You'll learn the core principles of screenplay structure, understanding how to build a compelling narrative from beginning to end. We will also cover character development, teaching you how to create memorable, multi-dimensional characters that drive the story. You will explore pacing to ensure your story maintains momentum and visual storytelling—the art of showing rather than telling through actions and imagery.



Deliverable:

A collection of 3-5 adapted dialogue excerpts and 2-3 fully written short scenes, demonstrating your understanding of cinematic language.
Phase 3

The Pitch & Funding Proposal

January - February
Film Proposal Components: Learn about the essential elements of a film proposal or "pitch deck" for potential investors and studios. This includes: Logline & Synopsis, Articulate your  vision for the film's artistic style, aesthetic, and emotional impact and  Target Audience & Marketability.  You'll learn about basic budget categories (pre-production, production, post-production) and estimate high-level costs. Funding Strategy Introduction: Explore different avenues for film funding (e.g., grants, independent investors, studio deals, crowdfunding).

Deliverable:

A professional-grade film proposal/pitch deck for "Panther Baby," ready to present to potential investors.
Phase 4

The Pitch & Pre-Production Planning

March - April
Pitch Practice: Present your film proposal to a panel of mentors and guest speakers, receiving constructive feedback on your pitching skills. Introduction to Production Roles: Explore the various roles on a film set (director, producer, cinematographer, editor, production designer, sound mixer, grip, gaffer, production assistant, etc.). Discuss responsibilities and career paths. Pre-Production Outline: Based on the successful funding proposal, begin to outline key pre-production steps, such as casting considerations, location scouting ideas, and a rough shooting schedule.

Deliverable:

A refined pitch presentation and a preliminary pre-production plan.

Real Production Experience

You will have the extraordinary opportunity to facilitate an actual film production.

Production Assistants

Learning the ropes on set, assisting various departments

Research Assistants

Delving deeper into the historical context of the film

Assistant to Department Heads

Shadowing cinematographers, production designers, or sound mixers

Behind-the-Scenes Filmmakers

Documenting the production process

Marketing & Social Media Support

Contributing to the film's outreach

Art Department Assistants

Helping with set decoration or props

   Limited Enrollment

250

Seats Available

  • Cohort-Based Production Teams.
  • Direct access to industry legends
  • Exclusive networking opportunities
Once these 250 seats are filled, the Studio doors close. 


This is a working production environment. Upon entry, you will declare your specialty and join a dedicated production unit.


Reserve Your Spot

Course Duration & Investment

2 Semesters

6 weeks per semester

$1,800

Investment
Monthly Payment plans available
LEGACY MEMBERS
Scholarships are available based on need and merit.

JAMAL JOSEPH

U.S. Writer, Director, Producer, Orphan, Filmmaker, Father, Poet, and Youth Advocate

Activist and Professor of Professional Practice at Columbia University School of the Arts in the Film Department

About Jamal Joseph

Jamal Joseph is a U.S. Writer, Director, Producer, Orphan, Filmmaker, Father, Poet, and Youth Advocate. He is also an Activist and Professor of Professional Practice at Columbia University School of the Arts in the Film Department.

Awards & Nominations

  Oscar Nominee
  Emmy Nominated for 'Dear Mama'
  Grammy Nominated for 'Dear Mama'

Affiliations

IMPACT Repertory Theatre
The Oscar and Grammy nominated, award-winning IMPACT Repertory Theatre empowers young artists through music, theater, and social justice activism, inspiring audiences worldwide.

Works by Jamal Joseph

Experience the power of storytelling with these captivating works by Emmy & Grammy nominated Jamal Joseph, spanning film, documentaries, and literature.

  Books

Panther Baby

A compelling memoir of growing up amidst the Black Panther movement, wrongful imprisonment, and journey to becoming an acclaimed writer, filmmaker, and activist.

Tupac Shakur Legacy

This work on Tupac Shakur's enduring influence includes a 60-minute interview CD.

  Film & Album 

Chapter + Verse

A powerful film that follows a formerly incarcerated man as he navigates the challenges of reentering society and finding redemption in present-day Harlem. A HARLEM STORY Directed by Jamal Joseph.

A rose that grew from Concrete

The Rose That Grew From Concrete a posthumous album based on the poetry/writings of Tupac Shakur, released on November 21, 2000

  Documentaries and Docuseries

Dear Mama

A poignant FX docuseries that chronicles the intertwined lives and legacies of Tupac Shakur and his mother, Afeni Shakur, exploring their complex relationship and revolutionary activism. An original docuseries from director Allen Hughes.

Hughes Dream Harlem

Tells the story of Langston Hughes' impact on Harlem and how his work helped shape the cultural identity of the neighborhood.

David Dinkins: A Gorgeous Mosaic

A documentary film showcasing the impact and legacy of NYC's first African American mayor, David Dinkins.

Ready to Unlock Your Potential?

Are you ready to make cinematic history and launch your career in film?