Film

This is a hands-on class designed to teach students the actor's process, as well as the most effective ways to communicate with actors to get the desired results for the director. Students will experience acting from the practical viewpoint of becomming the actor and learn how to direct actors for best results.

Course number: FILM-123
Prerequisite: n/a

Course material explores the more esoteric elements of screenwriting, including the creative process and the proper application of exposition, subtext and character to writing assignments. After this class, students should have a clearer idea about how to become a more productive writer and a more creative artist. *Registration by petition only. Prospective students should email 3-5pages of screenwriting sample to film@artcenter.edu prior to registration.

Course number: FILM-204A
Prerequisite: n/a

This advanced course approaches cinematography as a practical craft and as a design art. With a combination of theoretical study and hands-on exercises, we build a rich understanding of a DP's most important skill-sets -- light, exposure, color, lighting, cameras, formats, lenses, frame composition and shooting practices. Strong emphasis on student cinematographers' preparation for the professional world. Note: this is a hands-on workshop for Cinematography majors and those who want an advanced understanding of the craft. It is not a production class. -Production Level: 1 for in-class demonstrations only.

Course number: FILM-330
Prerequisite: n/a

This class is the capstone of all our other directing classes. Students will direct a single portfolio-level short narrative film, based on a script of their own or one they've developed with a writer. In addition, there will be workshops and lectures covering advanced directing skills, more about storytelling and the artistry of directing than about the technical skills covered in prior classes. The class is required for undergraduate directing majors and is open, as space allows, as an elective for all Graduate and Undergraduate Film students with the approval of the instructor. Production Levels 1-4.

Course number: FILM-306
Prerequisite: n/a

Expanding upon the foundation set in the initial Set Safety Class, this 14-week course delves into advanced topics crucial for ensuring a secure and efficient working environment in the film industry. Deepen your understanding of safety protocols and techniques on set. Some advanced topics that will be covered in this class include speed rail usage, menace arms, rigging lights and camera, porta jib, outdoor butterfly usage (12x12 and 20x20), DMX dimming, and generator usage. By refining the skills and knowledge gained in the Set Safety Class, participants in the Advanced Set Safety course will be better equipped to handle the challenges and complexities of working on set while prioritizing safety at all times.

Course number: FILM-006
Prerequisite: n/a

The course consists of a series of 35mm still photo exercises to introduce the student to the basic vocabulary of lighting, including: lighting direction and formal definition, hard and soft light qualities, and the laws of light behavior. An overview of the historical conventions of film lighting and the role of the director of photography is provided as foundation for the practical photo assignments. -Production Level: 1

Course number: FILM-231
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is designed to teach future cinematographers the technical "know-how" and vocabulary used by professionals on sets and in the industry. It will cover advanced topics not addressed in Set Safety such as cameras and dollies. Knowledge will be gained from hands-on demos, field trips, lectures,and a final exam. Students will achieve a strong understanding about a Cinematographer's responsibilities, tools used on a set, vocabulary, lighting and safety. A firm knowledge of the technical allows more time for creativity. This is not a shooting class and is a technical class.

Course number: FILM-230
Prerequisite: n/a

This class is an introduction to the basic principles and practices of visual storytelling from the director's point of view. Students have weekly assignments involving the recognition, discussion and crafting of story within image making and filmmaking. -Production Level: 1

Course number: FILM-121
Prerequisite: n/a

Students in this class will learn about working with the actor and the script in narrative film. Emphasis is on making the scene work, from casting to camera-ready. Each student is expected to direct and present three fully rehearsed scenes with accompanying research, floor plan, character description. -Production Level: 1 for in-class assignments only.

Course number: FILM-221
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is a technical introduction to the tools used in the Directing 2 class, including camera systems, sound recording, slating, and ingesting production media for post-production.

Course number: FILM-222
Prerequisite: n/a

The objective of this class is to introduce the student to non-fiction film and video-making. The class will provide a forum for the student film-maker using a series of specific exercises designed by the instructor to prepare each of them for the documentary film-making experience. During the 14 week semester, each student will be asked to shoot and edit a number of short videos, while at the same time exploring not only the history of the form but its future, for example, by looking at how today's digital technologies are completely transforming both the aesthetics -- and the ethics -- of modern documentary film-making. -Production Level: 1

Course number: FILM-423
Prerequisite: n/a

Film Department Production Policies provides a brief overview of the Film Department's production policies and procedures. Topics covered: CPR & first aid, safety, equipment checkout and return, production levels, casting, production forms, and production insurance. There will be a written test, on which students must score 85% or better. Students may take the test up to three times.

Course number: FILM-001
Prerequisite: n/a

This course teaches students about the film editor's craft and its creative aspects. Students will edit picture with synchronized sound from a number of professionally-directed scenes using Avid software. After taking the course, students will have an overview of dramatic editing techniques, enriched by hands-on experience. Students will also gain knowledge of the way that editing fits into the larger filmmaking process and will be prepared to continue to Film Editing 2.

Course number: FILM-152
Prerequisite: n/a

The role of the editor is examined in-depth through challenging weekly assignments. Beginning with a detailed analysis of the scene, a through understanding of the characters and their motivations are developed. Each scene is dissected to determine its function in the larger story. The concept of motivated cutting is introduced to underscore the correlation between text and subtext in illustrating internal as well as external character objectives. Sequences from a broad array of popular television dramas form the basis of coursework.

Course number: FILM-250
Prerequisite: n/a

Designed for upper term and Masters Program students, Advanced Editing is tailored to the individual student's projects and areas of interest. The instructor and student collaborate to set goals for the semester's work. Students are welcome to edit their own or fellow student's films. Sequences from television series and feature films are provided for those who wish to develop genre specific skills in comedy, action, or drama. Progress is monitored weekly with screenings and classmates taking part in discussions. The instructor works closely with the student to build a comprehensive understanding of the post production process. (Offered Fall and Spring.)

Course number: FILM-251
Prerequisite: n/a

Course number: FILM-390
Prerequisite: n/a

Course number: FILM-490
Prerequisite: n/a

Each session in this course will be part technical information necessary to understand production sound and part student-centered, hands-on instruction addressing immediate sound needs. The goals are to give students the basics needed to get good sound on their projects and an understanding of how sound professionals interface with a film making team. Basic sound and noise theory, microphone types and applications, current recording technology, equipment and practice will be covered. Documentary sound and how it differs from dramatic sound will be explored. This course does not require technical expertise or aptitude; all sound issues that arise, simple or complex are welcome. Student work will be shown in class for discussion. This course is not about post-production sound.

Course number: FILM-140
Prerequisite: n/a

Students will develop and prepare their project for filming by presenting their projects for peer and instructor critique. The course emphasizes a real-world Hollywood perspective for developing and filming projects as part of a marketable student portfolio, including film, television and commercials. The course allows any kind of project and any level of production. The course also covers an overview of the film, television and commercial industries including development, agents and managers, common agreements, film finance, guilds & unions and other topics related to life as a professional working in the entertainment business. Production Levels 1-4

Course number: FILM-260A
Prerequisite: n/a

Students should only enroll in this class in their graduating term. This class does not have weekly meetings. Instead, students in this class will meet once with a team of film faculty members and professionals to review their final academic body of work and professional assets (resume, website, etc). Career goals and aspirations will be explored and strategies about pursuing these goals will be explored. Students will not only receive feedback on their work, but also share their own feedback about their experiences in the college and Film department.

Course number: FILM-455C
Prerequisite: n/a

It is the goal of this class to take a fresh look at the way films are made so as to open new possibilities of cinema. Today the industry is facing the greatest challenge to its global technological and cultural dominance. In the not too distant future, all films will be made and distributed differently. The film artists of tomorrow will be those capable of thinking in novel ways. Hence the ambition of this class is to help students imagine their filmmaking beyond the norms generated by the current practice of the medium. Each week some questions relevant to the making of films will be presented by the instructor then debated in group discussions. Course Objectives: to create a forum where the potential of film can be thought out and expanded beyond the views presently regulating its practice. -Production Level: 1

Course number: FILM-130
Prerequisite: n/a

Post-production for digital video using AVID, integrating Photoshop, After Effects, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro and other software. Methods for editing, color correction, animation, compositing, capturing, mastering and publishing are taught, then implemented in a project of the student's choosing. Students will also gain general technical knowledge of digital video, broadcast standards and problem solving skills.

Course number: FILM-150
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is an introduction to the art and craft of cinema lighting. This will be achieved by lectures, demonstrations, supervised exercises, and assignments using a variety of lights and lighting tools. Emphasis is on students becoming comfortable and capable with lighting, planning and effectively communicating with others about lighting both technically and creatively. Students will learn to create new solutions to traditional techniques and styles. (Production Level: 1 for in-class demonstrations only. This is not a production class.)

Course number: FILM-232
Prerequisite: n/a

Line Producing and Production Management is an interactive course that takes participants through the preparation, production, post-production and delivery aspects of filming while focusing on bringing the story to life given the constraints of time and money. Topics include breaking down a script , prep calendars and time lines, scheduling, budgeting, call sheets, production reports, script supervisor reports, and delivery items. Also featured will be descriptions of the various departments and personnel that work together to create a project and the responsibilities of those respective departments. How information is conveyed and communication lines established in the various phases of production will be illustrated.

Course number: FILM-210
Prerequisite: n/a

Students in this class will meet with a team of film faculty members and professionals to review their body of work and professional assets (resume, website, etc) thus far. Students will receive feedback on their current portfolio, including thoughts on their strengths and areas that are in need of improvement. Long-term professional goals and strategies may also be explored. Students should enroll in this class immediately after completion of Directing 3 or Narrative Film Practicum.

Course number: FILM-300
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is an intense immersion into what is required to be a viable commercial director and short form storyteller in the ever-shifting, fast- paced world of commercials and branded content. An entrepreneurial attitude is strongly encouraged for students to take charge of their careers by creating a body of commercial work that reflects their individuality without conforming to current or conventional views. Students produce weekly film assignments. Production Level: 3 and higher

Course number: FILM-422
Prerequisite: n/a

The class will concentrate on learning how to effectively present and sell yourself and your projects in the room to potential employers or buyers. Developing and practicing one's pitch is also an extremely effective method for uncovering and fixing problems with your concept and story. + Managing Your Career An extension of Pitching, concentrating on how individuals working in the entertainment industry manage the practical aspects of an uncertain and challenging life as a free agent in a volatile business.

Course number: FILM-302
Prerequisite: n/a

In this hands-on class, students will hone their sound editing skills using footage from television shows, films, and movie trailers provided by the instructor. Students will learn the basics of industry standard Pro Tools software while covering in depth, how to record voiceovers, ADR, and FOLEY, as well as basic editing of music, production dialogue, and sound effects. Other topics covered in depth are; mixing and how to achieve proper sound levels for film, TV, or multimedia productions. Editors will leave this class conversant in the language of sound editing/mixing with a great foundation in audio that can be further developed, while directors will more effectively and creatively know how they can use sound to better tell their stories.

Course number: FILM-240
Prerequisite: n/a

This is a course for students who were enrolled in a Level 2-4 production class and were unable to film their projects due to the campus closure. Facility access and social distancing guidelines permitting, students enrolled in this class will have an opportunity to film these assignments. Students may only film projects associated with the classes they were previously enrolled in, and all projects must be pre-approved by the instructor of that class - just as would have been required of them under normal circumstances. In order to request access to this class, e-mail Nijo or Olaolu.

Course number: FILM-400
Prerequisite: n/a

The purpose of this class is to ensure that every student has the professional assets and tools they will need to successfully pursue their career immediately after graduation. This class will cover the creation and refinement of websites, resumes, and cover letters. Students will also workshop strategies for effective networking, interviewing, and self-promotion. A portion of this classes will involve a final term review where students will be asked to submit portfolio materials and professional documents for review and departmental archival. Like with the mid-program review, students will meet with a team of film faculty and professionals to receive feedback on these documents. This class should only be enrolled in by students who are in their final term and have submitted their "Intent to Graduate" form.

Course number: FILM-455B
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is designed to be an immersive introduction into the nuts and bolts of narrative as well as proper format and professional presentation for screenplay writing. It will cover the essentials of narrative, 3-act structure and story arc, scene and sequence structure, the importance of theme, how to develop characters, and point-of-view. Required software: Final Draft.

Course number: FILM-101
Prerequisite: n/a

This course provides a conceptual approach to the art and craft of writing for film. Emphasis is on writing from a visual point of view, as well as analyzing and exploring the elements fundamental to all styles of screenwriting. The goal of this class is to encourage student awareness of alternative approaches to the development of more complex story structures and characters, and to assist the student in becoming a more versatile storyteller.

Course number: FILM-102
Prerequisite: n/a

This class will concentrate on refining and fine tuning your pitch (for a writing or directing job) and getting it buyer-ready. With the ever changing landscape of Streamers, Studios and Financiers as well as Zoom pitches, this class will help your pitch be engaging, concise and memorable. Whether it's your own original concept, an adaptation of IP or pitching a remake/sequel of a project, this course will help you recalibrate your pitch to not only sell why you are the only person for the job but also make clear what your vision is. Prior completion of FILM-302/501 "Pitching" class recommended.

Course number: FILM-302A
Prerequisite: n/a

Set Safety is a 13 week class that acclimates all incoming Graduate and Undergraduates film student on the safe practices for the Film Department's Stages and Grip and Lighting equipment. This class will also cover Film Facilities usages. Required for all Film Students.

Course number: FILM-004
Prerequisite: n/a

"Shoot Film" is an Advanced Production Course to give filmmakers exposure to the entire process of shooting film starting with a brief history of the medium, best practices, advanced lighting and light meter usage, cameras, film stocks and materials, processing and scanning, and post production work flows. Each student will have the opportunity to put together a production and shoot 400ft MOS of Kodak Motion Picture film. The student will get hands on experience in Camera Building / Loading, Shooting, Process and Scan, Edit and Color Grading their own project. The final project for this course will be a review and critique of the what was shot by the student. Level 3 Production class

Course number: FILM-332
Prerequisite: n/a

In this course students will dive into the increasingly essential world of new media. Each student will explore the medium first hand, creating a no budget, short form series that can be posted online as a standalone piece, or as a proof of concept for a future project. Special attention will be paid to outlining the story, designing each episode so it stands alone as well as part of the series, and picking the best platform for the story being told. Students will also learn the recent history of short form digital content, starting with YouTube and going through everything from Quibi to TikTok. Production Level: 1

Course number: FILM-246
Prerequisite: n/a

Storyboarding: Mastering Communication Using Text, Image, and Diagram. This course focuses on stroyboarding skills for the filmmaker. A series of exercises teaches techniques that enhance the student's ability to visualize and sketch shot sequences and camera moves. Students are instructed in simple sketch techniques to expand their ability to communicate visual concepts to other participating artists.

Course number: FILM-122
Prerequisite: n/a

Sensuality, seduction and pleasure are at the core of almost every effort in the worlds of entertainment, advertising and marketing. In order to ignite desire and create brand awareness in consumers and audiences, it is necessary to speak in symbolic visual terms. A curated selection of films, advertising campaigns, photography, brand materials and 'brand codes' will be examined in order to form an understanding of the traditions of the art of visual seduction and how such traditions constantly evolve in response to society's ever- changing conditions and values. Students will create concepts, research documents, mood boards and a short film using pre-existing footage, the focus of which will be an instructor-assigned luxury brand communication project. Production Level: This class involves no filming for first-time students. However, students who take this class a second time may be eligible to shoot an original short film.

Course number: FILM-464
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is a technical introduction to the tools you will use throughout film productions, including camera systems, sound recording, slating, and ingesting production media for post-production.

Course number: FILM-112
Prerequisite: n/a

This is an introductory class to visual effects using After Effects. Through weekly assignments, students will learn to apply visual effects into their films, such as how to use green screens, matte paintings, underwater scenes, 3d tracking and more. We will also explore the history of visual effects, from the early techniques used in Melie's films to the latest technology used in "The Mandalorian". This is the starting point for learning visual-effects compositing and gaining a new set of tools to be more imaginative and ambitious in your own projects.

Course number: FILM-151A
Prerequisite: n/a

This Course is based in a critical method of Cinematographic Visual Analysis using 13 Visual Elements of Cinematography which are employed in real time film/video production and/or what is behind the image quality on acclaimed film titles. The program will discuss on how to perceive these Elements on a film production set, using film titles as examples which use each Element as their main Look. The Course is important for students on Directing Track whom wants to improve the understanding of Cinematography and the communication with their Cinematographers and for Directors of Photography whom wants to improve the quality of production of their images.

Course number: FILM-335
Prerequisite: n/a

This course is designed to be an immersive introduction to writing an original television pilot and the inner-workings of the TV writer's room. Following an introduction to the differences between screenwriting and television writing, format, and finding your audience/network, week-to-week student work will be "put up on the board" and workshopped in the same manner as the professional television writer's room, breaking down the steps from ideation to finished script. Students will leave the class with a finished pilot script which can be used as a writing sample for working in television and a basic confidence of what to expect when working in a writer's room on a professionally produced show. Through our weekly workshopping core screenwriting skills will be reinforced including narrative, structure, story arcs, scene work, the importance of theme, character development, and point-of-view.

Course number: FILM-206
Prerequisite: n/a