Ep 203: Emmy-Winning Filmmaker Alexis Neophytides: Capturing the Heart of Human Stories

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Alexis Neophytides is a distinguished documentary filmmaker based in New York City, recognized for her impactful storytelling and advocacy through film.
Her recent co-directorial work includes "Fire Through Dry Grass" with Andres “Jay” Molina, a poignant exploration of art and activism by the Reality Poets inside their nursing home during the COVID-19 pandemic. This film garnered acclaim as a New York Times Critic's Pick, premiered at BlackStar in 2023 winning the jury award for Best Feature Documentary, and is broadcast + streaming on POV/PBS.
Alexis's debut feature-length documentary, "Dear Thirteen," premiered at DOC NYC in 2022 and is distributed by Journeyman Pictures + Grasshopper Film, delving into the complexities of coming of age in today's world.
Alexis Neophytides is also the co-creator, co-director, and producer of "Neighborhood Slice," an Emmy-nominated public television series highlighting the stories of longtime New Yorkers navigating gentrification. Her dedication to storytelling earned her a NY Emmy for the series "9.99."
Throughout her career, Alexis has garnered support from esteemed organizations such as ITVS, the Ford Foundation, Field of Vision, IDA, Perspective Fund, Fork Films, the New York State Council on the Arts, the NYC Women’s Fund, and she is a Sundance Institute Documentary Film Grantee.
In addition to her filmmaking achievements, Alexis has been instrumental in developing filmmaking programs, designing curricula, and mentoring students across New York City, including roles at The Video Lab at The New School, The TEAK Fellowship, and OPEN DOORS. She holds a BA from Brown University and an MA in Media Studies from The New School.
Alexis Neophytides continues to provoke meaningful dialogue on critical social issues through the powerful medium of documentary film, inspiring audiences worldwide.
W: https://www.alexisneophytides.com/about
Voices of Change: A Conversation with Alexis Neophytides on Documentary Filmmaking and Storytelling for Impact

• Path to Documentary Filmmaking:
  • Alexis Neophytides' journey from Brown University and The New School to acclaimed documentary filmmaking.
  • What initially drew her to the art and power of documentary storytelling?
• Insight on "Fire Through Dry Grass":
  • A deep dive into "Fire Through Dry Grass," exploring life inside a nursing home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • How Alexis managed to convey a personal and impactful narrative amidst pandemic challenges.
  • Messages she hopes audiences take away from the film.
• Creative Process Behind "Dear Thirteen":
  • Exploring adolescence and cultural diversity through "Dear Thirteen."
  • Approach to capturing the universal yet unique experiences of coming of age across different cultures.
  • Surprising discoveries from the stories uncovered.
• Neighborhood Slice and New York City:
  • Showcasing resilience in the face of gentrification through "Neighborhood Slice."
  • Lessons learned about the spirit of New York City from documenting community narratives.
  • Criteria for selecting compelling stories to tell.
• Awards, Recognition, and Impact:
  • How Alexis measures success beyond awards and critical acclaim.
  • Memorable feedback or moments from audiences that have resonated deeply.
• Educational Involvement and Mentoring:
  • Alexis' contributions to education and mentorship in NYC.
  • Influence of her educational work on her filmmaking and vice versa.
• Projects Supported by Major Organizations:
  • Insights into securing support and partnerships from Sundance, Ford Foundation, ITVS, and others.
  • Importance of these collaborations in realizing her documentary visions.
• Advice to Aspiring Documentarians:
  • Guidance for emerging filmmakers navigating the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking.
  • Tips for tackling important social issues through film.
• Looking Ahead:
  • Future themes and stories Alexis is eager to explore in her upcoming projects.

Educational Benefits: This episode provides valuable insights into the creative and logistical processes behind documentary filmmaking, offering aspiring filmmakers a roadmap to storytelling that resonates with audiences while addressing pressing social issues. Alexis Neophytides' journey and experiences also highlight the educational and societal impacts of documentary films, making it a rich resource for students and educators interested in film studies, social sciences, and media literacy.
Damien Swaby Social Media Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwaby
Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton https://www.kweli.tv/watch/kweli/the-people-of-brixton