LT226 Fiction Filmmaking

INTRODUCTION

This module builds on the skills and concepts acquired from Approaches to Film and Media (LT121) and Introduction to Film Production (LT122) and is intended to further prepare students for independent digital film production. 

The module engages students with aspects of fiction filmmaking ranging from research and script writing to casting, location shooting, and editing. Apart from production techniques, students learn about planning, management and working with actors. Over the course students develop a short film script based on a given short story, take the film into production and shoot and edit over the remaining weeks. The aim is to produce an imaginative and creative short film. 

Students work in small groups allowing everyone to take key roles on a production team.

TEACHING AND LEARNING METHODS

The module runs across Spring term in 2022-23. During each teaching week students will be required to attend a 3-hour session, structured around: short lectures, script readings, discussions, presentations, practical exercises for which students work in their film groups and their review. Each week there will also be some group and/ or individual preparation out of class for the following week. In the final week of the term there will be a film screening, exhibiting all fiction films produced in the term.

TECHNICAL SESSIONS

The module will be complemented by separate compulsory technical sessions led by Saad Sulaiman that will focus on teaching students all the technical skills needed (camera operation and use of different lenses, sound recording, camera gear, editing and colour grading) in order to complete their short films successfully.  

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of the course, students should have:

enhanced their creative and devising skills

  • acquired practical skills necessary to produce short fiction films 
  • acquired an understanding of production management
  • gained insight into film industry practices and experience of fiction production
  • gained experience of time management, within constraints of limited resources
  • developed skills in negotiating/ working effectively with others to achieve a common goal
  • gained evaluative skills for critiquing own work and that of peers