Film School Friday with Jalyssa Jimenez
Reel Works Doc Lab mentor Jalyssa Jimenez joined our Film School Friday for an impactful screening of “The Next Stop,” a documentary-narrative inspired by real-life events. This courageous project confronts the often untold stories of sexual harassment women face on New York City’s transit system. “The Next Stop” won the Best Youth award at BlackStar Film Festival and was nominated for Tribeca Film Festival.
The film raises awareness about the prevalence of sexual harassment and the importance of fostering a safe environment for everyone. Jalyssa has a remarkable ability to showcase the women’s voices while maintaining an environment of care. Jalyssa emphasizes that she prioritized the actors' comfort throughout the making of the film: “Working on this film taught me how to navigate telling their stories through my art. Since this is such a heavy and traumatizing experience I was so consensual and sensitive. I spent a lot of time talking to the actors and asking if they're comfortable with this and letting them know if they’re uncomfortable I'll end the set right now.”
Jalyssa’s storytelling finesse encourages viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. Through filmmaking, viewers share the experiences of survivors of sexual harassment. By platforming these experiences, the film hopes to inspire change. Jalyssa said, “One person told me my approach to telling these stories allowed them to take control of their narratives and ultimately, control over that situation.” Expanding on the film's ability to connect and empower the women involved in it and its audience, Jalyssa notes, “I think these positive responses really speaks to the power of film. It universally has the ability to share these experiences with audience members who maybe hadn't really considered the gravity of the situation.”
Following the screening at Reel Works, Jalyssa invited the audience to participate in a thought-provoking Q&A. Reel Works Youth Ambassador Kya Nelson moderated the conversation. This unique opportunity allowed the audience to delve deeper into the creative process, challenges faced during production, and the overarching impact Jalyssa hopes to make through her work.
Born and raised in Hell’s Kitchen, New York, Jalyssa Jimenez is a Dominican and Puerto Rican woman now living in the Bronx, New York. She is currently an active post-production filmmaker. She’s worked at non-profit, freelance, film and television production companies such as Story Syndicate, Firelight Media, and HBO. Jalyssa is committed, loyal and passionate about every project she’s worked on such as: Take Care of Maya, and Last Call.
“The Next Stop” is available to stream today! Stay tuned for the latest on Jalyssa’s upcoming project, about a Dominican and Puerto Rican woman from the Bronx who moves to her own island.