The Reel Do Over is about more than film screenings and celebrating local talent—it’s about building a creative community, supporting local talent, and opening doors for those who may not have known where to start. Your support will help us make this vision a reality and ensure that everyone has a chance to participate, learn, and be inspired.

We have received funding from Chelsea Cultural Council and our premier sponsor is Eastern Salt. We are raising additional funds to create a scholarship The Reel Do Over is also raising additional funding to create a scholarship for a young (14 - 21) emerging filmmaker based in Chelsea.

By supporting this festival, you’ll help us provide access to film events for communities that may not have had these opportunities before. We want to celebrate the diversity of local filmmakers and encourage more people to share their stories on screen. To purchase tickets please visit our page on Humanitix. Free admission for youth 21 and under.

PRESS RELEASE

Chelsea, MA – April 22–26, 2026 – The Reel Do Over is a new week-long cultural event celebrating filmmaking, creativity, and community. The first of this kind of film festival in Chelsea will be based at Chelsea Theatre Works (189 Winnisimmet St, Chelsea, MA 02150).

The Reel Do Over is happy to announce the project has received funding from the Chelsea Cultural Council and Eastern Salt.

The event is organized by Chelsea and Everett based filmmakers, Devra Sari Zabot, Clark Ave Productions and K. Elisa Garcia, Endless Films to bring the magic of moviemaking to Chelsea and create opportunities for emerging and established filmmakers alike. Opening night will highlight films centered on Chelsea, including Chelsea, The Jewish Years by Dr. Ellen Rovner, Ph.d and short films that are part of the Chelsea Black Community Black Heritage Project. The rest of the schedule includes short films by local filmmakers, directing, cinematography and acting workshops, conversations with filmmakers, and panels with industry professionals, The full schedule is available at here.

"The Reel Do Over festival is the type of event we need in our community,” said District Seven City Councilor Manuel Teshe. “It brings people together from different neighborhoods and demographics and connects our residents and young emerging filmmakers with professionals in producing, acting, cinematography and directing. Huge thanks to local filmmakers Devra Sari Zabot and K. Elisa Garcia for putting this together!"

“Many years ago as an undergrad film student, I innocently asked my (male)cinematography professor why there weren’t more female Directors of Photography (D.P.s). He explained - without any hesitation - that the equipment needed to train as a DP was too heavy for the ladies. Although much has evolved in representation behind the camera, there is still much to be done in creating systemic change. With The Reel Do Over my hope is that we instill in a student or emerging filmmaker in our local community to write the stories that we need to see - in their own voice.”

— Devra Sari Zabot, Co-Organizer, Clark Ave Productions

“As a Latina filmmaker, representation is not just important—it’s essential for inspiring the next generation of creators. The film industry can be difficult to navigate, especially without access to community and support. Growing up in Chelsea, I rarely saw women or people of color who believed a future in the arts or filmmaking was possible. That lack of visibility has lasting effects. With The Reel Do Over, I want to help change that narrative by creating accessible, welcoming spaces where diverse, aspiring filmmakers can learn, grow, and thrive. I’m committed to reinvesting the support and knowledge I’ve received back into my community.”

— K. Elisa Garcia, Co-Organizer

“This program is funded in part by a grant from the Chelsea Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.” Eastern Salt is the event’s premiere sponsor.

More information and tickets are available at:

https://events.humanitix.com/the-reel-do-over

For sponsorships, please contact Devra Sari Zabot via this website.

ABOUT CLARK AVE PRODUCTIONS

Clark Ave Productions partners with socially responsible brands to produce unique storytelling content, evolving as technology continues to impact both content production and content consumption. Clark Ave Productions also curates and produces live events that build community through creativity, mentoring artists and performers and supporting their development.

ABOUT ENDLESS FILMS

Endless Films is a film production company driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of cinema. We aim to touch hearts, broaden perspectives, and spark conversation that can lead to positive societal impact. Our commitment to our audience and the artists we collaborate with is unwavering, as we strive to create a lasting legacy of meaningful, thought-provoking, and unforgettable stories. Together, we embark on an endless journey of discovery, where the power of storytelling knows no bounds. At Endless films, we invite you to join us as we unfold the infinite narratives that shape our world and illuminate the depths of the human experience.