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2024 Youth Collective Film Festival: Democracy

Democracy through the lens of emerging filmmakers

With democracy as their guiding theme, selections from the 2024 Youth Collective Film Festival showcase the bold creativity of filmmakers aged 13 to 25. These young visionaries were challenged to look beyond politics, delivering fresh, imaginative interpretations of what democracy can truly represent.

Youth Collective is a youth media and education initiative powered by public media that aims to provide a platform for young people to engage in the important work of building a more ethical world: https://www.wnet.org/education/

Lead funding generously provided by Janet Prindle Seidler with additional support from The McCutchen Foundation.

The WNET Group’s Preserving Democracy, a public media initiative, with principal support provided by The Chang K. Park Foundation.

ALL ARTS is the premier destination for inspiration, creativity and art of all forms. This New York Emmy-winning arts and culture hub is created by The WNET Group, the community-supported home of New York’s PBS stations. For all the ways to watch, visit AllArts.org/Everywhere

More From 2024 Youth Collective Film Festival: Democracy

Democracy Dollar$

November 21, 2024 | Video

A student film about participatory budgeting in NYC schools.

Dear America

November 14, 2024 | Video

Written and directed by Molly Smith, “Dear America” is a short film that explores the student perspective of gun violence. It was written when Smith herself was in high school.

The Cycle of Litter

November 14, 2024 | Video

Oh, the places it'll go. Discover how ocean pollution affects coastal communities and fisherman in Amanda Ho's short film.

Return Date Unknown

November 12, 2024 | Video

Ukrainian refugee and filmmaker Tymur Tsapliienko shares his views on the cost of war and the price of the world’s dependence on fossil fuels.

What is Democracy? A Lyrical Explanation

November 3, 2024 | Video

Created by students and applicable to all of us, "Democracy - A Musical Production" explains the core tenants of democracy — with the help of a hip-hop beat and sharp lyrics. Made by Ryan Clarke, Jason Brady, Nia Green, Richard…

Illegitimate Voice

October 28, 2024 | Video

In one of most beautiful animated documentaries of 2024, 'Illegitimate Voice' features Stefie Gan as she recounts her experiences with culture shock and racism after moving from Malaysia to New York City.

The Oubliette

October 21, 2024 | Video

Set in a dystopian police state, Max Hendrickson’s animated thriller explores mass surveillance — and the many anxieties conjured by it.

Darkness and Light

October 15, 2024 | Video

Inspired by a true story, “Darkness and Light” explores the aftermath of The Troubles in Northern Ireland, delving into ongoing conversations about democracy, justice, and faith that resonate even today.

The Path of Ghosts

October 4, 2024 | Video

Rich with symbolism, “The Path of Ghosts” reflects on democracy by exploring the unforeseen forces shaping our world.