Master Class with Farah X

Every month Reel Works hosts a Master Class with top industry professionals to expand our students' sense of possible career pathways. In the last few months, we’ve hosted talent agents, gaffers, set designers, and most recently, editor and director Farah X.

Farah’s clients include Mariah Carey, Prince, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and more. Her big directing debut was with a feature documentary on fashion and hip hop called The Remix. Although Farah has worked with some incredible celebrities, her advice was grounded and accessible.

When Farah applied to USC’s film school, she was rejected four times. She referred to imposter syndrome as an ever-present force at every stage of her career. For young filmmakers who may be experiencing their first few rejections, this was a valuable perspective to hear. Farah ultimately did get into USC’s film school where she found a mentor who introduced her to Mariah Carey, a professional relationship that would alter the course of her career, and it was all a result of perseverance. 

It’s hard to pick the single most important lesson that Farah X has learned from her amazing career as an editor and director. Each student in the audience took something different away from the conversation.

Aman, a 2022 Reel Works Fellow, shared, “ Having the chance to have an in-depth conversation with Farah on the numerous projects she has created was surely a great learning experience." 

We look forward to providing more Master Class opportunities to our young filmmakers and community organizations. If you’re interested in learning more about our future master classes, please connect with Reel Works’ Outreach Coordinator, Mara Sheban.