The program separates its learning paths while allowing participants to select individual classes.
Making a film is one of several paths through Astoria Film Festival’s Media Production Labs. The program also includes marketing and career exploration, linking production activity with the work of presenting projects and understanding industry roles. Astoria Film Festival’s official Media Lab program and participation details.
The labs are intended for New York City residents aged 16–30. Classes can be selected individually, while the organizer gives priority to participants following a series or attending multiple sessions. Its stated approach includes disabled, neurodivergent, and English-language-learner participants. Astoria Film Festival’s official Media Lab program and participation details.
The 2026 career sessions cover editing, development and distribution, agency representation, entertainment marketing, pitching a series, and recruitment. This range places creative work alongside the organizational roles involved in getting it made and circulated. Astoria Film Festival’s official Media Lab program and participation details.
Participation in additional opportunities has conditions. The official page says invitations to the free grip-and-electric weekend, Film Development Lab, or Kaufman Studios tour depend on completing a lab series with good attendance. The published structure distinguishes open career sessions from activities linked to sustained participation. Astoria Film Festival’s official Media Lab program and participation details.