Making Movies That Matter

Making Movies That Matter Piloted in 2016 by Councilmember John Lee, it has grown to be the largest in the country. There is no question that changing the world is a daunting task.

The Making Movies that Matter (MMTM) Youth Short Film Festival is a cutting-edge arts education gift to the Council District 12 private and public school community. The focus of the Making Movies that Matter Youth Short Film Festival is self evident. With guidance and support from mentors, it is our hope that participating students will be inspired to choose subject matter that is personal, heartf

elt and meaningful to them which will ultimately manifest itself in quality short films we will all be proud of. In the spirit of social action and civic engagement, it is our goal that this project be the spark that ignites the passion in our participants that launches them toward a trajectory of finding a purpose and calling bigger than they could have imagined - a cause perhaps bigger than themselves. For one it might be to take on issues such as bullying and the sometimes negative challenges of social media; for another it might be to tell the story of an individual or group who is making a difference with others on a daily basis. The truth is, youth are often an untapped source for creative change-making ideas. When young these change-agents have the support they need at every step of the process, we may be surprised with what they can accomplish—on their campuses, in their communities, and beyond. Neighborhoods Include:

Chatsworth
Porter Ranch
Northridge
North Hills
West Hills
Granada Hills
Reseda

06/03/2026

10 years later, and we're the largest youth short film festival in the west 🫶

All videos from MMTM 2026 have been posted on our new YouTube channel! Link in bio!

📷 Mark Hovater

05/21/2026

What a night to remember 🥹🎥

It's been one week since we were all dressed up, snapping pictures with Victoria Justice, winning awards, and cheering til our voices gave out ✨

We'll see you all in 2027! 🎬

📷 Mark Hovater

05/19/2026

I.C.E. Documentary by Napa Street Dual Language Elementary School

Created by Nathan, Andy, Leyser, and Arman, students interview their peers and teachers on their relevant opinions on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.). This film was submitted in the Elementary School Documentary category, with assistance from Artist-In-Residences, Scott Marshall and Anthony Pava, and administrator, Cesar Ceja Miguel.

To stay up to date with all MMTM info, visit cd12movies.com!

05/19/2026

We Love Lorne by Lorne Street Elementary & STEM Magnet 🦅

Students, Breanna, Cesia, and Adriana interview their principal, teachers, and peers on what makes Lorne so special. This film was submitted in the Elementary School Documentary category, with assistance from Artist-In-Residence, Jasmine Kohlbrenner, and teacher, Ms. Morones.

To stay up to date with all MMTM info, visit cd12movies.com!

05/19/2026

Our Journey by Castlebay Lane Elementary School 🎞️

Created by the entire Castlebay class, students documented their journey through the Making Movies That Matter Program. This film was submitted in the Elementary School Documentary category, with assistance from Artist-In-Residence, Jasmine Kohlbrenner, and teacher, Ms. Nguyen.

To stay up to date with all MMTM info, visit cd12movies.com!

05/19/2026

Wonderful Garden by Balboa Gifted High Ability Magnet ES 🌱

Created by Philip and Avi, this nature-filled documentary highlights Balboa Elementary’s beautiful garden and interesting facts about its plants. This film was submitted in the Elementary School Documentary category, with assistance from Artist-In-Residence, Jad Sleiman and teacher, Susan Taguchi.

To stay up to date with all MMTM info, visit cd12movies.com!

That’s a wrap on Making Movies That Matter 2026! 🎬This year was not only our 10th anniversary, but we reached a record n...
05/19/2026

That’s a wrap on Making Movies That Matter 2026! 🎬

This year was not only our 10th anniversary, but we reached a record number of 240 films submitted!

Thank you so much to our schools, sponsors, artists, and Councilmember John Lee for creating a space where this magic can happen ✨

05/02/2026

Iykyk 🤪🏆

It's May, meaning we're 12 days out from the red carpet event!! Films are also due TOMORROW, so make sure you submit them at cd12.com (link in bio) ☑️

‘s 2026 MMTM Culminating Event will be at the CSUN Soraya Theater and feature special guest, Victoria Justice!

📸

See you at the movies! 🎬

04/30/2026

Now that's classic 📸

Taking a look back at MMTM's past and present, gearing up for the culminating event on May 14th!

‘s 2026 MMTM Culminating Event will be at the CSUN Soraya Theater and feature special guest, Victoria Justice!

See you at the movies! 🎬

09/01/2025

This timely and important film from Patrick Henry Middle School was made by Victoria Sun, Wilson Tang, Mellisa Sun, Kevin Sun and Wesley Sun and is called “Close Call". This film is about two kids who go to their local Target when a man tries to kidnap them.

Shoutout to AIR Eric Stuart, principal Kristy Santi and legendary film teacher, Darren Abraham for their help with this film. For more information go to www.cd12movies.com Patrick Henry Junior High Councilmember John Lee

Address

9207 Oakdale Avenue
Chatsworth, CA
91311

Telephone

+18188821212

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Making Movies That Matter posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Making Movies That Matter:

Shortcuts

Share

Category