Nico Lee, a 15-year-old filmmaker from Berkeley, explores themes of gender identity and expression in his autobiographical short film, Changing Shapes. Drawing from his own childhood experiences of playful gender expression, Lee encourages viewers to break free from restrictive gender norms. He is part of a group of students participating in the Future Filmmakers program, which helps teenagers create documentary films and develop essential skills. This immersive program provides students with opportunities to share their stories and engage with industry professionals, culminating in a film festival that showcases their work.
One of the big ideas is finding your own identity in your own time. It's important to explore gender boundaries because if you are able to feel comfortable doing things that are outside of your gendered box, that opens up so much more freedom in how you express yourself.
The chance for high school students to truly tell their own stories, work with real professionals, and go through every step of the creative process, from idea to finished product, is amazing for them.
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