PBS has acquired Downtown Community Television Center’s documentary series “Our Cameras, Our Stories,” and will premiere the program on October 4th, TheWrap has learned.
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The six-week series, made with the support of the pioneering media arts center, features short autobiographical documentary films made by young New Yorkers about their lives, and the often heartbreaking challenges they face.
The films — which were written, shot, and edited by teenagers — deal with teenage homelessness, gun violence, and mental illness, among other pressing issues.
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“We did the filming. We did the editing,” said Jasmine Barkley, who made the film “When Life Hands You Lemons” about her difficult upbringing. “I was homeless for 3 years while I was in high school. No one can imagine what it was like. No one else can tell my story… I want people to know what many young New Yorkers go through. And I want to inspire those facing the same challenges.”
There will be 21 short films to air in total, beginning with a 1:30 pm premiere on WNET, New York’s PBS station. The documentaries will subsequently air nationwide.