In an industry that has historically been dominated by a single narrative, the tenth-annual luncheon hosted by Chanel and Tribeca stands as a powerful testament to a decade of change. It was more than a celebratory gathering; it was a reunion of a thriving community, a “movement” as coined by Tribeca co-founder and CEO Jane Rosenthal, dedicated to championing the next generation of female and non-binary filmmakers. Held in the heart of New York City, the event brought together a luminous constellation of actors, directors, writers, and producers who are not only shaping the future of cinema but are also committed to opening doors for those who follow. It was an afternoon that proved that a shared purpose—to foster creativity and provide access—is the most stylish statement of all.
A Milestone of Impact: A Movement, Not a Program
When Chanel and Tribeca Enterprises first launched the “Through Her Lens” program a decade ago, they envisioned a simple initiative. What they created, however, was a profound movement that has since reshaped the landscape of independent filmmaking. The luncheon served as a powerful moment of reflection, celebrating a milestone that has provided essential support to over 100 filmmakers and contributed to the development of 50 short films. Jane Rosenthal’s opening remarks, in which she declared that what they “were really starting was a movement,” resonated deeply, as the evidence of its impact was gathered in the room. This initiative has spent ten years cultivating a creative community where mentorship, collaboration, and financial support are not just offered but are woven into the very fabric of the program.
The long-term effects of this movement are evident in the success of its alumni. By fostering a sense of community and providing continuous support, the program has created a network where filmmakers champion each other’s work and actively create opportunities for one another. The alumni of “Through Her Lens” have gone on to have their films premiere at major festivals like Sundance and TIFF, securing distribution on platforms such as Max, further proving that the support provided by Tribeca and Chanel is not just a one-time gesture but a catalyst for sustained careers. This commitment to nurturing voices that have too often gone unheard demonstrates that the program is not merely a philanthropic effort; it is a strategic investment in the future of storytelling.
The Sisterhood of Cinema: A Star-Studded Celebration
The guest list for the luncheon was a vivid tableau of the entertainment industry’s most influential women, a powerful statement in itself. The organizers intentionally cultivated a rare, intimate atmosphere where powerful figures could connect on a personal level. It was a space where the camaraderie between actresses like Sarah Paulson and Mariska Hargitay was visible, and where industry leaders like Tessa Thompson could swap stories with rising stars like Meghann Fahy. This sense of sisterhood was palpable throughout the event, transcending traditional industry hierarchies and fostering a genuine feeling of shared purpose.
The room, filled with more than a hundred guests, was a testament to the diverse and multifaceted nature of the filmmaking community. Beyond the well-known faces like Lucy Liu, Edie Falco, and Katie Couric, the guest list included producers, directors, writers, and costume designers, all of whom play a vital role in bringing a story to life. This deliberate inclusion of women across various disciplines underscores the program’s holistic approach to supporting the entire creative ecosystem. The luncheon, therefore, was not just a celebration of talent; it was a celebration of the community, a powerful reminder that behind every great film is a team of dedicated women working together to create something beautiful and meaningful.
From Mentorship to Movement: Breaking the Barriers to Access
Jane Rosenthal’s powerful closing statement, in which she asserted that “the barrier has never been about talent; it’s access,” is at the very core of the “Through Her Lens” program’s mission. In an industry where connections and funding are often the deciding factors between a project’s success and its failure, the program directly addresses these systemic inequities. The luncheon marks the beginning of a rigorous three-day workshop where the 10 selected filmmakers participate in mentor-led sessions, gaining invaluable guidance on everything from script development to music composition and costume design. The program’s commitment to providing tangible resources—including full financing for one short film and development grants for the other four—is what truly sets it apart.
The workshops and one-on-one sessions are designed to equip emerging filmmakers with the practical tools and industry knowledge they need to navigate the often-complex world of film production. It is a hands-on approach that prioritizes professional and artistic development, ensuring that these talented women and nonbinary individuals have every opportunity to succeed. By pairing them with esteemed mentors and a distinguished jury of industry leaders, the program creates a direct pathway to success that would otherwise be difficult to attain. This focus on providing concrete, actionable support is what allows “Through Her Lens” to genuinely impact the careers of its participants and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive industry.
The Chanel Touch: Elegance as a Form of Empowerment
As the co-host and long-standing partner of the initiative, Chanel infused the luncheon with its signature touch of timeless elegance and effortless sophistication. The guest list, with women outfitted in iconic tweed jackets, classic flap bags, and elegant separates, served as a living testament to the brand’s enduring legacy. Chanel’s partnership with Tribeca is a powerful extension of its founder Gabrielle Chanel’s own history of supporting women in the arts. By aligning itself with a cause that champions creative freedom and female empowerment, the brand demonstrates that its values extend far beyond the world of fashion.
The aesthetic of the event—a chic, polished gathering of creative powerhouses—perfectly mirrored the program’s mission. Just as the luncheon created a space for meaningful connection and collaboration, the attendees’ Chanel attire served as a uniform of shared identity and purpose. The iconic designs, often seen as symbols of independence and modern femininity, seamlessly blended with the event’s theme of breaking molds and telling honest, brave stories. It was a powerful visual statement that, as Jane Rosenthal noted, through her lens, the world not only looks “braver” and “more honest” but also “a lot better dressed.” The partnership between Chanel and Tribeca proves that when a powerful brand champions a meaningful cause, it can create a ripple effect that resonates far beyond the confines of a single industry.
