The Director Prepares with Harvey Frost

Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th June 2010

 

“I was looking for vital, practical advice for the first time director from someone who has been there, seen it and done it many times before. The workshop did exactly what it said on the tin." Feedback from previous participant

Introduction

This two-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.

Fee: £180
10% Early Bird discount available until 1st May

 

More feedback from previous participants:

“A very useful workshop. It was the kind of priceless information that can only be imparted by someone who has successfully made many films on a tight budget and schedule. And all delivered in a relaxed and engaging manner.”

“Harvey delivered nugget after nugget of useful information. His material was well-structured and clearly presented, yet informal and coloured by anecdote. Above all I really appreciated Harvey’s no-nonsense, practical approach and his lack of pretension or preciousness. So refreshing in an industry in which self-indulgence and ego can predominate.”

“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.”


WORKSHOP 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.

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How to apply

Please submit the following items (email applications preferred):

  • Personal Statement
    (i.e. a few brief paragraphs explaining a bit about your background, also why you're applying for the course, what you hope to gain from it etc.)

Once your application has been received we will provide you with instructions for booking your place online.

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

Postal Address:
Workshops Admissions,
The London Film School,
24 Shelton Street,
London, WC2H 9UB, UK

Telephone us:
+44 (0)20 7836 9642

Fax us:
+44 (0)20 7497 3718