London Film School, offer full-time MA Degree courses in both Film Making and Screewriting.

Introduction

This 2-day seminar by award winning US TV and feature director Harvey Frost is a must for any new director who is about to make their first film or TV drama.

Especially suited to directors who are working without a big budget, the course covers all stages of production from first reading the script to signing off on the final mix and breaks down the director's preparation for a film or TV drama in full detail. You will learn how to use your shooting time and budget efficiently, how to create the production values you want, and how to get the coverage you need in post-production. You will learn how to anticipate and overcome problems, stresses and distractions as they come up on set, so you can create the film you want for the budget you have.

In this course Harvey Frost shares with you the lessons he and his colleagues wish someone had passed on to them when they were starting!

Course Content

Topics include:

• What you should aim for as your first project to direct
• Working with the writer and the producer on the script
• The difference between directing a one-off movie and a TV series
• Casting your stars and your dayplayers
• What to look for - and look out for - when you are asked for your input in hiring Heads of Department
• How to ensure you set the look and feel of your film during pre-production
• When to build a set and when to go on location
• Prioritizing your locations with your Location Manager
• Scheduling - and what scenes not to plan to shoot in the first or the last week
• If you can’t get rehearsal time, make sure you get a read-through!
• How to prepare your shot list
• Communication on set
• Lighting directions and order of shooting in a scene
• Steadicams, cranes and other toys: their uses and values - and hidden costs
• When and how to use a second unit
• Coverage and stock allocation, and when to use 2 cameras
• Stunts and Action
• Directing your cast
• Working with your keys and crew
• Directing for Green Screen and CGI
• Working with your editor
• Spotting music and Sound Effects
• Working with your composer
• Which steps of the mix you must go to and how to contribute to the mix
• How to use your downtime to focus on developing projects that have a chance of getting made and how the director can help projects get the green light.

“Harvey seemed genuinely keen to foster new talent and pass on tips from his experience, which is great. It was interesting to hear from someone who is a self-professed “career director” rather than someone who is tormented by their creative ambition. It re-ignited my passion for filmmaking.” Feedback from previous participant

Tutor Profile

Harvey Frost's work has won two Emmys, two ACEs, a Worldfest Silver Star, and won or been nominated for many other awards. His credits include almost every category of motion picture from 'indies' to TV movies, to prime-time network series and he has directed actors ranging from Academy Award winners Faye Dunaway, Hilary Swank and Ernest Borgnine to Jim Carrey, Steve Guttenberg , to George Eades, Lori Loughlin and Heather Locklear. A member of the DGA, the WGA and the DGC, upcoming credits include: "Meet My Mom” starring Lori Loughlin for the Hallmark Channel. He is currently completing writing an adaptation screenplay for Light Of The Desert Films, Los Angeles.

Acclaimed as an actors' director, he also brings a comprehensive knowledge of both script structure and development and the technical side of filmmaking, from lenses and lighting to stunts and special effects.

Top

Times: 10am-5pm
Capacity: Approx. 20-25 participants
Fee: £180

How to book

Online booking will be available from this page once new course dates have been confirmed.

In the meantime, please register your interest by email.

Email us:
Carolyn Atherton:
workshops@lfs.org.uk

Telephone us:
+44 (0)20 7836 9642