ABOUT US
We the ASCF (American Society of Cigars and Film) are a registered nonprofit dedicated to teaching and preserving the art of celluloid filmmaking. Founded in 2021 by visionary filmmaker Thomas Kuo, the club began as a serendipitous gathering of creatives united by their love of cigars and the craft of filmmaking. Amidst the smoke and spark of conversation, the idea for a community devoted to celebrating and safeguarding film-on-film was born.
From its earliest days, ASCF has pursued its mission to cultivate a new generation of filmmakers inspired by the tangible magic of celluloid. Embracing the tactile nature of traditional filmmaking, members immerse themselves in its history and craftsmanship while honing their own skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.
As the club grew, so did its cinematic endeavors—ranging from experimental shorts to ambitious features, all serving as testaments to the enduring power of storytelling on film. The launch of the annual ASCF Film Festival further cemented our place in the cinematic landscape, offering a platform for both members and emerging filmmakers worldwide to showcase their work and celebrate the artistry of celluloid.
Today, ASCF continues to bridge tradition and innovation through every frame captured on film. In a digital age where pixels reign supreme, we stand as a beacon of authenticity and a testament to the timeless allure of the silver screen.
MEET THE TEAM
Thom Kuo
Thom Kuo has a BFA from Bowling Green State University & an MFA from Loyola Marymount University. After starting his career as a cinematographer, he segued into post-production where he has now spent 20+ years on studio film such as “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” “Jurassic World,” “Killers of A Flower Moon” “Babylon” and “Maestro”
Jessi Spickard
Jessi first starred in Thom’s short “Traveler’s Fugue” where she was introduced to the art of filmmaking on film. With the wrap of a great project, Jessi began helping out during workshops and became very invested in the ASCF’s mission of making this medium more accessible. While her focus is in front of the camera, she is proud to assist others in their celluloid journey.
Lisset Mendoza
Lisset joined Thom’s gang in 2020 when she co-produced his short film “Travelers Fugue.” On this project she fell in love with the filmmaking medium, met fellow actress and filmmaker Jessi, and began working with Thom more closely creating together the annual ASCF Film Festival.
John Powers
Jack Meggers has been making films since 2012 and has been shooting on celluloid for the last three years. He began his career as an actor on the stages of New York City, then switched his focus to writing and directing films to develop his voice as an artist and follow his true passion, creating cinema. With a healthy dose of curiosity and a little help from the Celluloid Ashram (and a guy named Thom), he began exploring the world of creating with celluloid.
Jake was introduced to Thom Kuo by Colton Davie after buying his first 16mm camera. After attending the first ASCF workshop he was hooked and has since ventured to incorporate celluloid in his work at Stan Winston School, as well as a steadily growing number of music video and narrative projects.
