Film Production Program

The Film Production Program is an intense, one-year, diploma-granting program. Cameras are out from day one as you complete multiple short film projects. Over 1000 hours of rigorous training will give you an understanding of the technical and theoretical aspects of dramatic, biographical, and experimental film production. 12 portfolio projects solidify your knowledge in a real-life setting while providing the opportunity to build artistic strength and awareness.

Small class sizes provide focused, individualized training, and plenty of one-on-one time with industry-professional instructors. Become a creative, artistic, and technically skilled filmmaker, and join our award-winning alumni with a record of festival selections, awards, and employment after graduation.

FILM PRODUCTION CLASS – 10:30 AM

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MAKE 12 FILMS IN 12 MONTHS

1. Silent Film

A picture is worth a thousand words, and film is 24 images per second. As the first portfolio project, the silent film challenges you to approach film as first and foremost a visual medium. This project asks you to create a clear story without dialogue.

2. Biography

A good filmmaker has empathy for their subjects. That’s why we ask you point the camera at yourself early in the program. The Biography project is your opportunity to explore a pivotal moment in your life and to gain the insight and understanding needed in a filmmaker.

3. Observational Film

Documentary film aims to capture a subject or topic as is, but just turning a camera on a person can change their behaviour. The premise of Observational Film (a.k.a Cinema Verité) is to become a fly on the wall—that is, to capture a scene in its most natural state.

4. Documentary

Documentaries are an increasingly important and pervasive form of film today. The Documentary project is your chance to try your hand at drawing out an interesting story from the world around you. Whether it be for corporate or creative reasons, you’ll be glad you have the experience to craft a story that’s truer than reality.

5. Director’s Vision

“It’s never all in the script. If it were, why make the movie?” – Nicholas Ray
Wes Anderson, Ava Duvernay, Christopher Nolan. Give these three directors the same script and each will produce a vastly different film. With the Director’s Vision assignment, spin an assigned script into your own story with your own flair. Ask yourself, what makes your films yours?

6. Web Short/Short Film

When thinking about film school projects, the Web Short/Short Film project is likely the first to come to mind. Assigned in Term 2, this 3-5 minute dramatic (or comedic!) short is the culmination of your education so far. As you write and direct your story, wake your inner auteur and bring your story to life with a trusted crew.

7. Green Screen Commercial

Spike Jonze, Ridley Scott, David Fincher — these iconic directors all had their start directing commercials. Many, including Sofia Coppola, direct commercials even after global recognition! This project is your chance to gain experience creating a 30-second dramatic TV spot as well as using green screen and After Effects techniques to supplement your shots.

8. Painting With Light

The harsh, mysterious shadows of noir. A romantic evening under a ceiling of fairy lights. A masterful cinematographer uses light to paint mood and emotion into a scene. The Painting with Light project is about grappling with light, shadow, and colour. You must work with your fellow students to create a simple scene that matches an assigned genre.

9. Oner

Some of the most beautiful shots in film are unbroken sequence shots (or “oners”). Seen in single scenes like the Dunkirk beach scene from Atonement, to full-feature films like Russian Ark, the oner is a beloved and celebrated cinematic device. Your challenge is to master the continuous reframing and refocusing required for this shooting style.

10. Film Pitch

The Film Pitch assignment is your introduction to the blurred line between art and business in the world of professional film. Learn and practice the process of pitching by putting together a pitch package and presenting it to a panel of industry professionals in a mock pitch session. The feedback you receive afterwards will be an invaluable part of your journey in the industry.

11. Grad Film

It’s your time to shine! The Grad Film is the capstone of the Film Production Program. Every student writes and pitches a short, 8-15 minute film to a panel of judges. Grad Film projects will be produced with full crews and will reflect the culmination of all your skills built over the course of the program.

12. Passion Project

Finally, it’s artist’s choice! The Passion Project is your opportunity to produce a piece of work you’ve wanted but haven’t had the chance to create in the program. This project is your responsibility from beginning to end, from conception to crewing to shooting. But don’t worry—your classmates, instructors, and staff are here to support you when needed.

VIEW MORE FILMS

LEARN FROM INDUSTRY PROS

You’ll be taught by some of the most accomplished filmmakers Vancouver has to offer. Our mentors are actively working in the industry and have credits that range from big-budget blockbusters such as Harry Potter and The Avengers, to indie gems like Fido and From Russia With Love, to TV series such as Game of Thrones, Gotham, and more.

MEET OUR STUDENTS + TEACHERS

ALUMNI SUCCESS

Joining InFocus means you are more than just a student. We are dedicated to your success, both during the program and in launching your professional career after graduation. Many InFocus students have won awards, received grants, and made the selection of prestigious festivals right out of school. In addition to supporting and promoting your projects, we offer on-going assistance by building your network of industry contacts and connecting you with job opportunities.

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