Date: Apr 30, 2009

Hofstra Film Student’s Directorial Debut On Sundance Channel

"El Alors, Charlotte" Produced By Ghetto Film School

Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY – Et Alors, Charlotte, a short film directed by School of Communication film major Jonathan Rodríguez, will premiere nationally on the Sundance Film Channel  Sunday, May 3 at 11:40 p.m., Wednesday, May 5 at 1:40 a.m. and 5:40 a.m., Friday, May 15 at 8:45 a.m., 11:40 p.m., and 5:40 p.m. and Tuesday, May 26 at 10:40 a.m. The film was also featured in the Harlem International Film Festival on February 26, 2009.

The twenty-minute film was written, produced and shot on location in Paris, France by participants in the 2006-2007 Fellows Program at the Ghetto Film School, an organization that connects talented young people to artistic, educational and career opportunities in the world of film and video. More than 400 students have participated in the school’s programs and workshops, coming from all areas of New York City to the South Bronx training facilities for hands-on production and cinema studies courses.

El Alors, Charlotte is a playful French romantic comedy in which the main character, Daniel Cameron is an emerging artist who has lost his inspiration. Struggling to finish a single piece for his main benefactor, and crashing on his agent’s couch, Daniel is stifled by the world around him, at an impasse - when a chance encounter with Charlotte changes everything.

Jonathan’s goals as a filmmaker include the ability to have creative control of his projects. He hopes to be able to tell unique stories that reflect his own vision as an artist.

“We’re so proud of Jonathan and other students who’ve come to us from Ghetto Film School.  Having his work broadcast nationally on the Sundance Channel is a testament to his talent and creativity,” said Dean Sybil DelGaudio.  “We look forward to seeing more great works from Jonathan.”

For more information on Hofstra University’s School of Communication please visit www.hofstra.edu.soc  and for more information about the Ghetto Film School please visit www.ghettofilm.org .

Hofstra University is a dynamic private institution where students can choose from more than 145 undergraduate and more than 160 graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, business; engineering; communication; education, health and human services;  and honors studies, as well as a School of Law.