Celeste Shelton is a trailblazer in entertainment and film, known for her visionary leadership and commitment to empowering creators. Starting as an Entertainment Editor in 2013, she transitioned into film production and talent management in 2018, representing clients who have collaborated with icons like Will Smith and Tyler Perry.
As the first Black female City Producer for the Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project, Celeste champions local talent and fosters creativity in Arkansas. She is a passionate mentor, empowering aspiring filmmakers and advocating for diversity in the arts.
Celeste’s dedication to storytelling, innovation, and community makes her a true pioneer in the industry.
How many years have you been a judge?
1-3 years
What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?
Entertainment Editor, it taught me that you have to be comfortable in being uncomfortable. You have to take risks at times for your dreams.
What project are you most proud to have worked on?
Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project because this was my community and seeing novice filmmakers seeing their film on the big screen for the first time, priceless!
What’s the most challenging part about your job and/or the industry?
It’s breaking the barriers of opportunities. Not all are accompanied with those. You have to make it work. Also the tax credit incentives, it’s our duty to express the importance of such and how it’s needed to better the film community.
What do you look for to determine excellence in video?
Creativity and Authencity. Yes, things are generally repeated but it has to be something shown or express with authenticity. How well can you capture me in the first few minutes. Good tool is watch it first for enjoyment and then watch secondly for critique. Enjoy it first!
How do you unwind from work mode?
Unplug! I take a break, a true break! Lol
Do you have any specific practices you lean on to fuel your creativity?
I am a great listener. I love to hear any and everything. And going to plays and movies. I find a lot inspirations in everyday life. I sit in my car a lot and just watch people, everyone has a story.
When did you know that this career is what you wanted to do?
At 8 years old, acting as a waitress from my favorite show ” Alice” I loved organizing things, putting it together and playing the part. I can say I was an method actor. Lol
What inspired you to join the field and create the kind of work you do?
I am natural nurture giver. Helping others tell their stories is so important to me. It’s your voice and we all have one.
In your experience, what is a significant change happening in the video and television industry, and what insight can you share about how to navigate it?
Technology, AI to be frank. It’s here and it’s used for so many things that we don’t know. Educate yourself on everything technology, because it’s constantly changing.
What’s a work tool you use every day and what’s one that is obsolete that you wish still existed?
Smart phones! The phone book! To me it was better than Google!
What company do you work for?
Rooted Deep Entertainment and 48 Hour Film Project
What is your current role / title?
CEO/ Filmmaker/City Producer for Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project
What are your current roles and responsibilities and what do you love most about your job?
City Producer- providing space for our local filmmakers to express and explore endless opportunities.
What initiatives or projects are you working on now that excite you?
Being on the board with Women in Film Arkansas we are always doing workshops and fun social events for all filmmakers. Excited about the new year of 48 Hour Film Project. I have an A-list celebrity judge that has signed on and welcoming vets and newbie filmmakers this year.
