Film 390: Directing: The emphasis of this course will be on the art of communicating and collaborating with both actors and crew members to produce a fully envisioned film. We will use a hands-on approach through class exercises (script breakdown, scene analysis, rehearsals, improve, etc.) while also working individually to direct a final film from start to finish. Students will learn to confidently bring their vision to the screen by effectively collaborating with actors and crew.
FILM 231: Writing For Film: This course is about discovering your voice as a writer and learning how to carry an idea from the page to the screen. We begin with short creative exercises that emphasize tone, character, rhythm, and emotional clarity—learning how to write with purpose, not just plot. From there, we explore how those same ideas might take shape visually. Students will experiment with different forms of writing, reflect on their creative instincts, and develop work that’s meant to be seen, not just read.
FILM 364: Music Video Production: In this course, students will explore the history of music videos alongside contemporary approaches, while fully engaging in the complete music video production process—from concept development and pitching to final production for promotional and marketing use. The course includes analysis of genres, directors, and modes of storytelling as they relate to visual branding and artist promotion. Each student will collaborate with a local artist or band to produce an original music video.
FILM 363: Mumblecore: Foundational Cinema: This course explores the aesthetics and production strategies of realist and DIY (do-it-yourself) filmmaking. Students will examine the work of early independent directors such as John Cassavetes, Lars von Trier, and Jim Jarmusch, alongside filmmakers of the early 2000s “Mumblecore” movement. Emphasis is placed on working with limited budgets, non-professional actors, and cultivating naturalistic performances and dialogue. Students will apply these techniques to create a 3–5 minute original film or video.
FILM 222: Introduction to Digital Filmmaking: This course introduces the fundamental concepts and techniques of digital video production, including camera operation, audio recording, lighting, and editing. Students will participate in every stage of the production process—from proposal and planning to shooting and post-production—while developing creative problem-solving skills through the critique of their own work and that of their peers. The course emphasizes hands-on experience and imaginative approaches to completing a final video project.
FILM 509: Senior Project I: Pre-production/production of individual media arts projects facilitated by critiques and work sessions. Prereq: min 12 cr of upper-level film/video/animation/new genres electives, including 3 cr. of Portfolio Production electives; or cons instr.
Film 510: Senior Project II: This is an advanced course in which students discuss, critique, assist and produce ongoing thesis projects by class members in a critique/workshop environment. Students enrolled should be at or nearing the post-production phase of their Senior Thesis projects. The class culminates in the public screening of Senior Thesis projects.
Classes that no longer exist: