Universal’s Shooting Stars Gives Back to Lebron James’ Hometown with Below-the-Line Traineeship

June 22, 2023

Universal’s Shooting Stars showcases the inspiring origin story of LeBron James and his friends and how they became the No. 1 high school team in the country.

The director, Chris Robinson, and Lebron James, were adamant for the film to be as authentic as possible, they shot in Cleveland and Akron, Ohio where the real story took place. The film team partnered with the Cleveland Film Commission and were able to give those in the community the opportunity to work on the production. One trainee reflected on how it was an amazing experience to be a new high school graduate and on a film set.

“With the Universal Below-the-Line traineeship, our goal is to give people, especially from underrepresented communities, the opportunity to be on a major film production and learn on the job."

— Jeff Cafuir, Senior Director of Shooting Stars

Launched in 2021, Universal’s Below-the-Line Traineeship provides on and off-the-job training and mentorship across select below-the-line departments on NBCUniversal film and TV projects around the world. With the increasing demand for experienced craft talent and artisans throughout the industry, this innovative and immersive experience cultivates the next generation of costume designers, prop masters, camera operators, technicians and the myriad of roles crucial to any production team by collaborating with local partners to source up-and-coming talent.