Shawn Antoine II
Directing
Biography
Shawn Antoine II is a filmmaker from Harlem, NY, whose journey in storytelling began with editing youth football footage, a skill that evolved into a calling. After playing collegiate football and studying public relations at the University of Rhode Island, Shawn produced SHOWTIME, a short film that confirmed his path in filmmaking. The film, which screened at over 50 festivals and aired on Magic Johnson’s ASPIRE TV, cemented his passion for cinematic storytelling. Currently, he recentely earned his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Documentary Media at Northwestern University, continuing to refine his voice as an artist. Shawn’s storytelling extends beyond the screen to his role as a leader in education. In 2020, he became one of the youngest Directors of Admissions in the country at Cardinal Hayes High School, his alma mater. His films capture deeply resonant themes of community, identity, and resilience, seen in works like For Those That Lived There, which explores gentrification and cultural legacy, and KINGDOME, a tribute to Harlem’s legendary streetball culture, both of which have garnered wide acclaim on the festival circuit. His industry experience includes assisting producers and directors on major projects like The Penguin (HBO Max), The Blacklist (NBC), and Really Love (Netflix). His films have screened at prestigious venues like Lincoln Center, DOC NYC, FOX Soul, Google, and the Gene Siskel Film Center, as well as at the St. Louis International Film Festival, San Diego Film Festival, and Pan African Film Festival.
Known For
With the city in peril following the seawall's collapse, Oswald "Oz" Cobb seeks to fill the power vacuum left by the death of Carmine Falcone and finally give his mother Francis the life he's always promised. But first, Oz must confront his enemies and his own demoralizing reputation as "the Penguin."
The Penguin
Through its founder, Terry "Huncho" Cooper, we witness the story of the infamous basketball tournament in Harlem that has symbolized resilience, hope, and community for decades.
Kingdome
In 1971, Sharon witnessed a glowing cross in her Bronx apartment, sparking belief and skepticism. "The Sight Unseen" explores her memories and Melvin Tapley’s writings, investigating whether the phenomenon was divine or a hoax.
The Sight Unseen
Darius and Hakeem dance on New York City trains to earn honest money and escape the crime-riddled streets of Harlem. Their friendship is tested when unforeseen opportunities come.
Showtime
Set beneath a surreal green sky on a distant, crumbling world, the film captures the last survivors of a dying civilization—women who perform a synchronized ritual dance to summon an ethereal extraterrestrial presence from another realm.
Green Bay
Unease is to be not easy in body or mind; uncomfortable; restless; disturbed; perturbed. This short film shows the experience of a college girl who is experiencing uneasiness.
Unease
Amidst the ivy-draped remnants of once-notorious public housing projects, FOR THOSE THAT LIVED THERE weaves a visual tapestry, navigating the poignant impacts of gentrification, the displacement of Black legacies, and the emergent migrant narratives. Against Chicago's ever-evolving skyline, this evocative exploration immerses audiences into the soul of a neighborhood transformed.