Film & Television Studies: Narrative Filmmaking

Topics in film and video production. May repeat for credit with different content. Topics vary by offering; periodic offering at intervals that may exceed four years. Prerequisite: FTS 2650 or FTS 2655.

Prereqs enforced by the system: FTS 2650 or FTS 2655 PACE students with permission and override

In this intensive filmmaking course, students collaborate in small production teams to create short narrative films. Each student rotates through essential production roles including director, assistant director, cinematographer, gaffer, and sound team positions, ensuring comprehensive hands-on experience across all aspects of filmmaking. The course unfolds across three key phases: Pre-production, Production, and Post-Production. During the initial three weeks, students develop their scripts into shootable content while mastering professional production workflows and industry-standard protocols. Through focused instruction and practical application, students learn vital set procedures and role-specific responsibilities that drive successful productions. Students receive dedicated guidance to develop their visual storytelling and crew leadership skills. Their responsibilities include creating comprehensive production binders (containing cast information, location details, script breakdowns, shot lists, storyboards, and art direction notes), managing casting, conducting technical location scouts, and directing their films. The course emphasizes: - Professional collaboration and team dynamics - Efficient production practices - Mastery of set protocols and procedures - Role-specific skill development - Adaptability across different production positions Students are randomly assigned to production teams to ensure diverse collaborative experiences. While rotating through positions, students are encouraged to fully immerse themselves in each role's responsibilities, fostering deeper understanding and skill development.

Students should come to the first day of class with a proposed concept and project. You will pitch your project to the class and we will collaborate in creating groups for each project. -Develop a short visual or dialogue driven narrative, or adapt a scene from a longer script -Please note: your project can take on any genre form: Experimental, Abstract, to Dialogue driven Narrative. -Produce and direct a project -Learn to communicate with and direct talent and crew -Create a script break down -Create a storyboard -From your breakdown create a shot list and timeline -Shot list, production boards, and schedule -Get permits for locations and release forms for crew and talent. -Scout locations, identify production requirements: framing composition, camera placement/moves, location of doors/windows, placement of lights, reflectors, sound equipment: technical needs, i.e. electrical outlets, breakers, sprinklers; noise producing appliances, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc.) Select equipment and expendables for specific production needs -Select and assign production crew -Shoot and edit your film and be ready to present in public, with a public q&a included.

Grade is a combination of the assessment of engaged participation as well as quality filmmaking practices. Pre-production deliverables will be graded and given the highly collaborative roles in sets, students should not miss shooting days and be always in time. A final public screening of the films will finalize the semester.