Teaching
A Sundance Lab Fellow with over two decades of experience, I teach film, writing, and the creative process with a focus on helping students develop their own distinct artistic voices. At Swarthmore College, I mentored students through every stage of production—from initial concept and screenplay to editing and final cut—blending creative insight with technical expertise.
I’ve worked with Stage 32 in Los Angeles and have led lectures and workshops across a wide range of settings, always emphasizing clarity of vision, strong storytelling, and the realities of the creative process. My students have gone on to receive Fulbright fellowships and land competitive roles throughout the film and media industries.
I’ve recently completed “The Storyteller’s Playbook,” a concise guide to writing for film, television, and media. Structured in 12 short chapters and field-tested over more than 20 years of industry experience, the book distills practical tools and strategies for emerging writers and creators.
Whether in the classroom, the editing suite, or through one-on-one mentorship, my goal is to help each student bring their story to life with purpose, originality, and confidence.
Coaching
Lee offers coaching, mentoring and speaking in both private sessions and to groups. Please reach out for more details about his services and speaking.
lasternthal@gmail.com