Introduction to Practical Non-Fiction Filmmaking, Stage 5 module (EN52048)

Week 1: Introduction: What is Non-Fiction Film

Week 2: Lighting at Interview  

Week 3: Interviewing on Camera

Week 5: Editing an Interview

Week 6: Scripting Non-Fiction Films

Week 7: Researching and Filming the Archives

Week 9: Finding, Clearing and Editing Found Footage

Week 11: Preparing a Rough Cut: Music and Sound

The students will also attend weekly screenings of important non-fiction films and fortnightly one-hour discussion sessions for reflection about theory and practice. 

Assessment

The intended learning outcomes of the module are assessed by a finished scene of around five or ten minutes, directed, shot, scripted and edited by the student. This will count for 70% of the module grade. They will also produce a reflective essay in which they assess their working process. This will count for 30% of the grade.

The intended learning outcomes are as follows:

Knowledge and understanding

• to demonstrate a detailed knowledge of non-fiction film production
• to understand and apply specific film language, concepts and terminology
• to demonstrate an ability to apply practical skills by making a short documentary

Subject-specific practical and intellectual skills and attributes.

• to respond to constructive feedback about their practical work both formally and informally from tutors and peers
• to exchange views about film practice with others in a constructive and open-minded context and to work co-operatively with other students
• to express their own opinions and defend their own critical judgments and practical work by drawing on key themes and debates in Film Studies

Transferable, employability and enterprise skills and attributes.

• acquire a range of transferable skills, graduate attributes and personal qualities, which will enhance their confidence and independence both during and after their studies
• develop an independent, organised approach to learning, and thereby practise time management skills through working to deadlines

Aims

Upon completion of the module, the successful student will be have gained:

1. The ability to produce and direct a short documentary or essay film
2. An appreciation, and practical experience of non-fiction filmmaking
3. Experience interviewing subjects and building the art of screenplay from interviews and research
4. A practical understanding and experience of the basic techniques of cinematography and film editing
5. A deeper understanding of the aesthetics and grammar of the non-fiction film 

Convenor

Dr Brian Hoyle

The teaching will be all be face-to-face and will involve workshops, tutorials, seminars and training session. The students will have the opportunity to learn practical skill and reflect upon their practice.