Coney Island USA launched a new film school in partnership with cult filmmaker and music video director Dylan Mars Greenberg, bringing hands-on film education to the heart of the iconic amusement district. Weekly classes begin Jan. 25 and enrollment is now open.
The Coney Island Film School marks the first time a structured film course has been offered at the legendary Coney Island USA. The program will be led by Greenberg, whose work spans experimental cinema and music videos, offering students a rare opportunity to learn directly from an active independent filmmaker.
Classes will take place throughout Coney Island’s amusement district and inside Coney Island USA, blending the area’s unique visual landscape with practical instruction. The curriculum emphasizes experimentation, collaboration, and creativity, making the experience accessible and engaging for participants ranging in age from 12 to 112.
“I’m really excited to teach film as an experimental and collaborative medium” said Greenberg. “It’s something that a lot of people find very elusive, I think, but I began making feature films out of experimenting and playing with friends and I want to show that making your own movie isn’t something reserved for big studios.”
Sessions will be held on Sundays from 1:00pm to 6:00pm on Jan. 25; Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22; and March 1, 8 and 15. Over the course of the program, students will be guided through a well-rounded curriculum covering filming techniques, editing, idea development and project planning.
Greenberg’s teaching approach centers on demystifying filmmaking and encouraging students to see film as a playful, collaborative medium rather than an exclusive industry reserved for major studios. The course aims to show that making a movie can begin with experimentation, curiosity and community.
Coney Island USA Artistic Director Adam Rinn said the organization is thrilled to host the film school, describing it as a rare opportunity to learn from a filmmaker whose work has already made an impact on independent cinema and continues to shape the field.
Enrollment will be capped at 15 students to ensure an intimate, hands-on learning environment.
Students are required to bring their own mobile device, such as an iPhone, Android phone, or tablet, as well as a laptop with editing software pre-installed. No prior filmmaking experience is necessary.
Registration is now open. Tuition is $850 per person.
