By Laura M. Holson

Who says cellphones are good only for talking? Today they are bringing together two unlikely brand names: Nokia and Spike Lee.

Lee, the director, is teaming up with Nokia, the cellphone maker, to direct a short film comprising YouTube-style videos created by teenagers and adults using their mobile phones.

By hiring Lee for the project, Nokia is seeking to combine the populist appeal of user-generated content with the power of a famous director's pedigree. The film will have three acts, each three to five minutes long, with the theme loosely based on the concept of humanity.

Spike Lee, one of the most influential figures in contemporary cinema, has been named the Chrysler LLC 2008 Behind the Lens honoree. Lee, a director, producer, screenwriter, author and educator, is to be recognized for his outstanding achievements in film and television at the sixth annual award ceremony. Hosted by CNN's anchor Soledad O'Brien, the private invitation-only event will be held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles on March 26, 2008.

"We are very excited to have Spike Lee as the Behind the Lens Honoree for 2008," said Frank Fountain, Chrysler Senior Vice President - External Affairs and Public Policy (Auburn Hills). "Spike Lee is synonymous with thoughtful and provocative filmmaking and activism in Hollywood which has inspired a generation of filmmakers, uplifted actors and expanded the field to include many more African Americans in key roles behind the lens. He fully embodies the spirit behind this award and Chrysler is delighted to celebrate his commitment and passion."