About the Project

 About the Project
Our Story
The Community Film Project began as a simple idea: to bring the collaborative spirit of community theater into the world of filmmaking. Inspired by years of experience in community theater and a lifelong passion for film, co-founder Lucas James McGraw envisioned a space where first-timers and aspiring filmmakers could learn, collaborate, and create. Partnering with Justin Lether, the project evolved into a unique initiative that blends the inclusivity of community-driven arts with professional filmmaking practices. The project's first feature film, Before Your Time, came to life with the help of nearly 1,000 volunteers, proving that a shared passion for storytelling can lead to meaningful, high-quality productions.
Our Vision
The Community Film Project empowers individuals to share their unique perspectives through film. Our mission is to cultivate a supportive environment where aspiring artists can explore their creativity and express their voices.
Through hands-on filmmaking experience, participants gain practical skills and build confidence in their art. By bridging diverse perspectives, we produce compelling films and strengthen the sense of community.
Benefits for All
The Community Film Project brings people together to create something extraordinary, offering benefits for all involved. Participants gain hands-on experience, develop creative skills, and build meaningful connections. Local businesses and organizations enjoy increased visibility through sponsorships, while audiences are treated to unique, high-quality storytelling that reflects their community. By working together, we inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive.
What's Next?
Join Us! Be part of the this spectacular creative community. Share your talents, gain experience, and collaborate to bring stories to life. No matter your skill level, there's a role for you. Let's make something extraordinary together!
Meet the Team
Lucas James McGraw
Award-Winning Filmmaker
Co-Founder of the Community Film Project
www.cinemcg.com
With over 20 years of experience in filmmaking and storytelling, Lucas James McGraw has directed and produced content that has garnered millions of views on YouTube and helped organizations achieve their goals. As a scalable filmmaker and video producer, Lucas's work has taken him across the globe, creating documentaries, short films, and narratives that inspire and connect. Through his freelance business, Lucas has partnered with education foundations to produce compelling videos that have raised millions of dollars to combat teen homelessness and provide critical resources for at-risk youth. Recently, two of his short films earned the Utah Best of State Award for Short Film in 2023 and 2024, showcasing his dedication to high-quality, impactful storytelling.
As the co-founder of the Community Film Project, Lucas is passionate about fostering collaboration and creativity in filmmaking. This initiative brings communities together to learn, create, and produce award-winning projects like their previous feature film Before Your Time. By combining his expertise in video production with his passion for storytelling, Lucas empowers individuals and organizations to share their stories and create lasting change through film
Justin Lether
Executive Producer
Co-Founder of the Community Film Project
Justin was born and raised in Utah. During high school Justin's family purchased a VHS camcorder and making media became his passion. He attended University and earned a bachelor's degree in Broadcast Communications and a master's degree of Education with a focus on media creation and instruction. He met his wife Barbara Utah while attending university. They have six children. Justin was an educator for the first 10 years of his career.
For the last 15 years Justin has worked on inspirational and educational videos, apps, and educational change initiatives. His major projects have been two scriptures series and broadcasts for adults, youth, and children.
WRITING AND CONTENT TEAM
BUSINESS & ADMIN TEAM
PRODUCTION TEAM
MARKETING TEAM
EDUCATION TEAM
Adam Figueira
Education Team Lead
Adam has taught filmmaking, photography, technical theatre, graphic design, and other things since 2011. Prior to that he spent nearly a decade as a freelance videographer and designer, and worked producing live events in SLC. His driving passion is to create things that have a positive impact and to help others realize their own creative dreams. He's thrilled to be on board with the Community Film Project, and looks forward to helping his community members on their unique creative journeys.

Adam lives with his wonderful wife, Noel, and their eight amazing children. Together they sing, create, and act as silly as possible. When not doing that (or often while doing it) you can find him writing words and music, or puttering in his garden.