By Caiden Beasley
Warner Bros. and Sony Group Corporation announced plans to create a 31-acre facility in Las Vegas called Summerlin Studios and that means future jobs for College of Southern Nevada’s film students.
If approved by the State Legislature, the project could bring nearly 18,000 high-wage jobs to Las Vegas, according to Warner Bros.’ economic-impact report discussed in the bill.
According to CSN film Professor John Aliano, the college offers a variety of in-depth filmmaking courses, starting with VID 101, which teaches students the fundamentals of producing, editing, writing and directing.
“As students advance, they gain access to more specialized courses including Cinematography I & II,” Aliano said. “I began teaching here in 2010 and have helped expand the videography and film program by adding new classes.”
In these advanced courses, students refine their skills using professional industry-standard equipment including cameras, tripods, lights and illuminometers—devices that measure precise lighting for film scenes.
Since Aliano started at CSN, the school has invested more than $1 million in film equipment, all of which is available to students at no additional cost, he noted.
Las Vegas’ burgeoning film industry is already shaping some students’ schooling and career decisions.
CSN student Zion Martin said he feels encouraged by the studios’ potential impact on the city. “The possibility of a big movie studio coming to Vegas is the main thing that got me to enroll. It’s a relief to know that trying to make it in L.A. isn’t going to be the only way to pursue a film career.”
Another CSN student Mad Ange Khan shared that while she didn’t initially plan to pursue a career in film, taking a class at CSN reignited her passion for the industry.
“I’ve always been interested in film in various capacities,” Khan said. “I wanted to be a music video director for decades. I used to make movie props. I’ve been in movies and I’ve always wanted to write scripts. Deciding to follow my heart and pursue this course has already been very enlightening.”
Khan expressed excitement about the expansion of the film industry in Las Vegas, noting that she has followed the discussions since the early-2000s.
“I think we don’t have the diverse landscape that California does, but we do have good incentives for the film industry here,” Khan said.
Aliano remains optimistic about the future of the film industry in the region.
“With two of the top five film companies in the U.S. planning to jointly set-up studio operations and support facilities, this could have a significant impact on the city and state, as well as build a considerable workforce,” Aliano said.
If Summerlin Studios becomes a reality, it could position Las Vegas as a major player in the film industry providing opportunities for both established professionals and aspiring filmmakers alike.
Coyote Student News at the College of Southern Nevada 