Film Production Program

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

TERM 1

Cinematography I

This course will teach the fundamentals of the art of cinematography. Through immersive, hands-on experiences, students will master the operation of DSLR & C100 cameras, gain proficiency in utilizing various camera components and accessories, and develop a comprehensive understanding of both natural and studio lighting. The curriculum delves into the nuances of visual storytelling and fundamental composition techniques, empowering students to evolve into skilled Directors of Photography for upcoming projects. Immerse yourself in the art of cinematography and embark on a journey towards becoming a proficient visual storyteller.

Directing I

In this comprehensive course on Film Directing, students will receive a thorough exploration of the duties, skills, and essential knowledge required of a Film Director. Throughout the lessons, students will study the methodologies of some of cinema’s greatest filmmakers and the techniques used within their masterpieces. Become familiar with film terms and gain insights into the intricate relationship between the director and their team from conceptualization to execution. Learn everything from developing a unique creative vision to collaborative communication.

Writing Analysis & Essentials

This course covers the basics of creating captivating screenplays and short films. Students will learn about story structure, character development, dialogue, and visual storytelling. Exploring classic narrative structure and how to develop engaging characters with clear goals and motivations. Practical exercises will help them craft impactful action lines and dialogue. They’ll also learn about themes and how to infuse their work with deeper meaning. Throughout the course, students will analyze short films to understand effective storytelling techniques.

Writing Workshop I

Bring your first film idea to screen. Students will write a short script that they will also direct later in the program. Follow industry standard steps and formatting conventions, including character development, three act structure, engaging dialogue and more. All scripts will receive continuous feedback from industry professionals before moving to camera.

Editing I

Students will survey the international history of motion pictures from its incarnation to present day. Following the evolution of the art, industry, and technological advances in filmmaking, students will discover the works of some of history’s greatest directors and dissect the medium’s evolution via ground-breaking ideas, experimental artistry, and risky choices throughout several genres. An important goal of this course is to instruct the student in “media literacy,” to illustrate how movies as a mass medium not only entertain, but also have the power to inform, persuade, and influence modern society.

Documentary Bio

Before students capture others on camera, they should first turn the lens on themselves to understand what it takes for a subject to open up on screen. The Doc Bio project introduces students to the opposite side of the camera and invites them to produce a 3-5 minute piece telling a story about themselves.

Each student is required to write, direct, edit, and (preferably) appear in an autobiographical film. Students are encouraged to tell a story about something profound that has changed their life. They are also encouraged to take artistic risks and dare to be unique. The bio can be experimental or simply a video blog augmented with moving imagery. Students are evaluated on storytelling, photography, sound, and editing. The goal of this project is to help students move from individual exercises to a fully formed film.

Audio I

This course will introduce students to sound for film. Clean sound is an important component of every film, and having the technical skills to achieve it is a necessity. Students will gain expertise in choosing the correct microphone, microphone placement, using digital recorders, and capturing clean, usable dialog on set.

Assistant Directing I

The Assistant Director is one of many components leading the creation of a project. From pre-production to shoot, they are involved in making the schedule, communication between departments and actors, keeping time, problem solving, all while being the lead safety representative on set.

Assistant Directors work alongside the Director, Producers, Director of Photography, Production Designer & Locations Manager in pre-production to sort out, lock down and organize each element needed in the script. The AD breaks down the script then creates paperwork that helps each department prepare. They create a shooting schedule based on the timeframe given. They keep the team on track and have clear and open lines of communication with each department. Then once they get to set; the AD conducts the safety meeting, then runs the set and is in charge of each day’s time management.

Film History

Students will explore the international history of motion pictures from its inception to the present day. The course involves discussing classic and influential films, emphasizing their cultural impact. Examining the evolution of the art, industry, and technological advances in filmmaking, students will delve into the works of some of history’s greatest directors. The course will dissect the medium’s progression through groundbreaking ideas, experimental artistry, and bold choices across various genres.

A central focus is placed on understanding the cultural impact of cinema and how it has become a reflection of society, emphasizing its significance in the contemporary world. An integral goal of the course is to enhance students’ “media literacy,” demonstrating how movies, as a mass medium, not only entertain but also possess the power to inform, persuade, and influence modern society.

TERM 2

Directing II

Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on practical exercises, students will expand and deepen their understanding of the director’s role in shaping the narrative, guiding actors, and overseeing the production process. Exercises include finding and casting the right actors for your films, giving direction on set and utilizing creative camera movements, framing and composition to make every shot have meaning behind it.

Film Aesthetics

This course delves deeper into Film Aesthetics, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to critically analyze film as an art form capable of conveying emotions, messages, and artistic expression. Through hands-on application of film criticism, film analysis, film theory, and philosophy in both the production and appreciation of cinema, students will learn how to engage critically and imaginatively with film as a medium and through specific projects. Each class will focus on various aspects of film aesthetics within a specific film. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify and apply aesthetic principles in their own films.

Cinematography II

This course gives students a deeper insight into the endless possibilities of cinematography. Building upon their foundational knowledge, students will apply and enhance their skills through the introduction of higher-caliber equipment, more complex filming scenarios, new on-set roles, and fresh lighting and composition techniques to sustain their creative momentum. Students will experience the dynamics of a narrative set, drawing inspiration from personal influences before progressing to advanced cinematography in term three. The course will culminate with an introduction to the realm of documentary cinematography.

Assistant Directing II

In Assistant Directing Term 2, aspiring assistant directors delve deeper into the intricacies of managing film and television productions while effectively collaborating with diverse stakeholders. This comprehensive course is designed to equip students with advanced techniques and strategies essential for success in the role of an assistant director. From working closely with actors, background performers, animals, and minors to mastering the intricacies of production logistics, scheduling, and paperwork, students will gain the practical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the demanding world of film and television production.

Documentary II

This course invites students to delve into the multifaceted realm of documentary filmmaking. Students will develop a nuanced understanding of diverse forms and styles, mastering the art of subject qualification and conducting interviews with finesse. Through hands-on workshops students will craft compelling stories, navigate ethical considerations, and capture captivating cinema verité footage. Legal aspects, including securing releases and addressing intellectual property issues specific to documentaries, will be explored. The course culminates in the directing and editing of a captivating short piece of unscripted cinema, allowing students to showcase their acquired skills and embark on a transformative filmmaking endeavor.

Editing II

Editing involves much more than pushing buttons. This course explores the art of editing by imparting professional theories, methods, and techniques to students. The emphasis will be on understanding how the theoretical aspects of editing, including the psychology behind cuts, screen grammar, spatial relationships, rhythm, and pacing, impact narratives. Through practical workshops, students will analyze and work on the cuts of various film projects, gaining the skills to construct cohesive and engaging sequences while applying advanced editing theories. Students will also learn about the final stages of preparing a film for distribution, covering color correction, grading, and the output and delivery process.

Audio II

This course will build upon the skills learned in Term 1. Students will gain more in-depth knowledge of post-production techniques including ADR, post-production sound mixing, background audio, foley.

Pre-Production

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the various aspects of producing a web short film. Students will engage in hands-on learning experiences that cover securing locations, obtaining necessary permits and insurance, detailed production planning, and executing a successful shoot.

Music Videos

In this course, students will explore the multifaceted world of music video and commercial production. The Music Videos section covers narrative, settings, props, costumes, and lyrics, examining their representation of social identities and ideologies. Students will study genre conventions across music styles and the evolving purpose of music videos from promotion to branding, along with finance, concept development, and artist relations. The Commercials section provides insights into the commercial landscape, client and agency dynamics, and project bidding. Students will develop skills in brand portrayal, crafting compelling stories, and understanding deliverables, focusing on creating impactful and effective commercials. By the end of the course, students will present a concept development project for both a music video and a commercial, demonstrating their understanding and application of the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course.

TERM 3

Cinematography III

This course represents the culmination of the entire cinematography curriculum before students branch into their specializations. Students will grasp the importance of preparation and be introduced to crucial crew roles, green screen usage, shooting exteriors, and analyzing existing work for inspiration. Towards the end of this course, students will have the opportunity to apply their creative, technical, and organizational skills acquired over the last two terms in two culminating assessments: painting with light and the final exam.

Directing III

Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on practical exercises, students will gain a deep understanding of the essential tools and knowledge required to craft compelling cinematic narratives. From mastering the art of captivating openings to fostering collaborative relationships with actors, each class immerses students in critical elements of storytelling and production. With a blend of hands-on techniques and theoretical foundations, participants will elevate their directing abilities and hone their craft to deliver impactful cinematic experiences.

Assistant Directing III

Assistant Directing Term 3 allows the student to take all the knowledge they gained in Assistant Directing Terms 1 and 2 and practically apply it to their short film projects. With the guidance of the instructor, students will have the opportunity to compile information and build a schedule for a multi-day shoot. They will apply their knowledge of safety and industry protocols to create a viable prep and shooting schedule. The students will then practically apply the schedule by accurately communicating the information to the cast and crew. Once on set, they will have the opportunity to adapt to unforeseen challenges that inevitably present themselves, using the skills they’ve gained to assess and mitigate potential challenges and hazards.

Editing III

This course introduces students to the fundamentals and practical applications of green screen compositing. Students will learn essential techniques for filming and editing green screen footage, culminating in a review session where they present their projects and receive professional feedback. The course covers the entire process from setup and shooting to compositing and final critique, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of green screen technology and its applications in film and media production.

Production Design

Production Design (PD) is the visual signature of any film or TV series. Together with the Director and Cinematographer, the Production Designer forms the creative trinity. Tasked with interpreting a script into visuals, Production Designers create cohesive, purposeful looks for our sets. These visuals must support the tone, genre, action, emotion, and characters of films. The Production Designer is directly responsible for six sub-departments: including set decoration, construction, scenic painting, props, greens & playback. They also overlap with wardrobe, hair, makeup, picture cars, and stunts. Put simply, the Production Designer is in charge of composing all of the physical elements that appear on-screen. They are the world builders of our stories!

In this course, students will learn about the Production Designer’s role in achieving a director’s vision. Students will explore the techniques and craft used to create the mise-en-scene of a wide range of films and series. Through experimenting with traditional and non-traditional techniques, students will have the opportunity to develop their own production design and art directional skills.

Script Supervision

We’ve all watched movies with glaring continuity errors. Whether it be phantom props or jolting axis breaks these errors take the audience out of the story. On set, it’s the Script Supervisor that makes sure everything will cut together seamlessly. Otherwise known as the “on set editor” Script Supervisors play an essential role to every production. Don’t be fooled by the fact that continuity is typically only a one person department, this position is far from easy. Script Supervisors act as safety nets for the entire creative team — from props, to makeup, camera and lighting! In this course students will learn all stages of Script Supervision/Continuity — from pre-production and production to the completion of reports for the Production Manager/ Editor.

Writing Workshop II

Writing involves continuous refinement, emphasizing the importance of practice. Throughout this course, students will revisit and enhance their foundational writing skills as they embark on crafting longer pieces. The curriculum will explore advanced screenwriting topics, allowing students to delve into the intricacies of the craft. Subsequently, students will engage in workshops for multiple script drafts, with each iteration bringing them closer to a Locked Script. The course challenges students to tackle more nuanced subject matter and develop stronger characters. The course will also place significant emphasis on screenplay formatting. Students will acquire the skills to proficiently write scene descriptions, articulate character and location details, and construct engaging action sequences. Students are reminded that all scripts must adhere to InFocus’ Grad Production Guidelines and consider limitations related to locations, cast, and safety.

Specialty: Producing

The producer is the driving force behind any project. From start to finish, they are the people behind the
curtain; the leaders of the filmmaking process. Producers control the project, build the team, raise finances, oversee the budget, organize the production, and are responsible for delivering the project based on agreements.

This course will teach the fundamentals of producing including creative development, budgeting, funding, pitching, inclusivity, team leadership project management, sponsorship, marketing and distribution. Students will learn the responsibilities of a producer: money management, people management and schedule management. Using real-world funding applications and the students’ own short scripted projects as project samples, each student will create their own finance, schedule, and marketing documents in a complete producer’s pitch package. Students will pitch their package to a jury of industry experts for feedback.

Specialty: Production Design

This course imparts practical and specialized knowledge in advanced Production Design. Through lectures and immersive workshops, students will delve into construction, working with flats, scenic painting, wallpapering, ageing techniques, costumes, graphic design, and more! Throughout specialties students are expected to begin working on their SDF. Students who are not Production Designer on an SDF are expected to help PDs with their Deliverables for the projects they’re part of.

Specialty: Cinematography

This course teaches advanced applications of cinematography, from preparing for shoots to collaborating with technicians on set and handling footage in post. Students will gain hands-on experience with the full Canon C300 workflow, learn color grading, camera assisting, and work through real-world lighting scenarios.

TERM 4

Career Pathways

This course explores various post-graduation career paths for film students, preparing them for filmmaking careers and discussing alternatives to joining a film union. Topics include starting a business, personal branding, sustained content creation post-film school, and effective job search strategies. By the end of the course, students will have a clear vision of potential career paths, empowering them to make informed decisions aligned with their individual filmmaking goals.

Pre-Production II

This course offers an immersive experience in the pre-production processes, where students actively prepare for their Grad films. Each team will engage in intensive pre-production meetings covering key filmmaking disciplines: Directing, Production Design, Producing, Assistant Directing, and Cinematography. Throughout the course, students will delve into the specifics of each role, collaborating within their teams to plan and organize their projects.

Production

This course provides an in-depth, hands-on experience in the production phase of filmmaking, where students will bring their pre-production plans to life. Each team will actively participate in shooting their Grad films, covering key filmmaking disciplines: Directing, Production Design, Producing, Assistant Directing, Cinematography, and Sound. Throughout the course, students will implement their pre-production plans, collaborate on set, and tackle the challenges of real-time film production.

Post-Production

This course immerses students in the intricate realm of post-production in filmmaking, focusing on refining raw footage into polished cinematic works. Participants will explore essential processes and technologies through hands-on mentorships, gaining proficiency in editing, sound design, and colour grading.

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