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Creating Spaces for All: A Conversation in Rhythm with Eileen Level
At Omniscient Studios, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling to create inclusive spaces—whether through film, anime, or music. Our latest installment of Voices of THE Omniverse brings this mission to life through a candid conversation with Eileen Level, a creative force in cinema, film festivals, and community-building.
In this conversation, we explore Eileen's inspiring journey of fostering creativity and access for underrepresented groups in the film industry. As the founder of AniTOMO, she’s creating spaces where fans and creatives can come together, using anime and film as cultural bridges.
With over a decade of experience as a media events manager and short film programmer, Eileen’s dedication to making film accessible to under-resourced youth is truly groundbreaking.
Cinema as a Catalyst for Change
For Eileen, film is far more than entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for cultural preservation, education, and social impact. Through her work with PaleFO Cinema, she champions the importance of movie theaters as community spaces. The name itself, rooted in Haitian and French, means "to speak up," reflecting her mission to amplify the voices of filmmakers and audiences alike.
Eileen draws inspiration from theaters like the iconic Canarsie Theatre in Brooklyn, a community cornerstone that sadly closed its doors but remains a symbol of how cinema can unite people. These spaces offer more than just screenings—they foster collective memory, cultural exchange, and the celebration of diverse voices. In an industry that often overlooks marginalized communities, she emphasizes the need to preserve and create spaces where all stories can be seen and heard.
The Power of Storytelling Through Anime & AniTOMO
A lifelong anime fan, Eileen understands how anime bridges cultures while staying true to its unique identity. In our conversation, she explains how anime blends vibrant worlds, complex characters, and universal themes like love, loss, and growth. "That’s why it speaks to so many people," she says, noting how these fantastical stories transcend borders by exploring experiences that resonate universally.
Building on this belief, Eileen created AniTOMO, a community-driven platform designed to bring anime fans and creatives together. More than just an event series, AniTOMO fosters meaningful connections through screenings, discussions, and cultural celebrations. It provides fans a space to engage with anime not just as entertainment but as a way to connect, share experiences, and celebrate creativity.
Through AniTOMO, Eileen amplifies the unifying power of anime, sparking conversations that celebrate diverse cultures and inspire creativity.
The Magic of Shared Experiences
In today’s digital era, streaming services make it easier than ever to access films, but Eileen highlights a timeless truth: nothing compares to the magic of experiencing a film together in a physical space. She draws inspiration from iconic independent theaters like the Jean Cocteau Cinema in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which offer an immersive experience that larger chains simply can’t replicate.
Eileen’s vision is to create a community theater in an under-resourced neighborhood, where film serves not just as an art form but as a tool for education and empowerment. It’s about creating a space where people from all walks of life can come together and experience the transformative power of cinema.
Eileen isn’t simply nostalgic for the past—she’s actively building for the future, creating spaces that unite, educate, and inspire.
Watch & Listen to the Full Interview
Eileen’s journey is a powerful reminder of why storytelling matters and why we must continue to champion spaces where creativity can thrive. At Omniscient Studios, we’re committed to amplifying voices like hers and working toward a future where creative expression is accessible to everyone.
Ready to hear more? Experience the full Voices of THE Omniverse conversation with Eileen Level:
Stay tuned for more conversations that push the culture forward. Thanks For Reading!
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