Shorts to Features: Expanding your narrative
This event will take place over Zoom on January 12th 1:30pm to 3pm (BST)
Welcoming Moin Hussain!
Moin is a British-Pakistani Writer and Director who was named a Screen Star of Tomorrow in 2018. His short films have screened in competition at festivals around the world, including Cannes Semaine De La Critique, Sitges, BFI London Film Festival and Edinburgh International Film Festival.
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Transitioning from a short film to a feature-length project is an ambitious leap for any filmmaker, requiring a clear understanding of how to expand a concise narrative into a fully developed, engaging story. This workshop is designed to provide hyper-specific guidance on how to make this jump while maintaining the core essence of your original short film.
Whether you’re a filmmaker with a strong short under your belt or a screenwriter aiming to scale up your storytelling, this session offers detailed insights and actionable strategies to help you successfully adapt your short film concept into a compelling feature.
Workshop Focus:
🎭 How to identify the core thematic elements of your short that need to be preserved in the feature version.
🎬 Strategies for expanding a narrative while keeping the core idea intact
🤸 How to add depth with subplots that support the main narrative and broaden the emotional or thematic impact of the story.
🧑🎤 Methods for extending character arcs, introducing new conflicts, and building richer relationships without straying from the heart of the original concept.
What Makes a Great Short Film: From Concept to Execution
This event will take place over Zoom on November 19th 6pm to 7:30pm (BST)
Welcoming Luigi Sibona!
Luigi brings a distinctive visual style and a passion for subverting storytelling norms. His award-winning short films, including Mantis and In Your Hands, have been featured at BAFTA and Academy Award-qualifying festivals worldwide.
Short films offer filmmakers a unique opportunity to tell powerful, concise stories that resonate with audiences and industry professionals alike. Understanding how to effectively write, direct, and execute a successful short film can be the difference between a project that gains widespread recognition and one that struggles to find an audience.
This workshop is ideal for filmmakers, screenwriters, and creatives looking to explore the intricacies of short filmmaking.
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What to Expect:
🎯 Pinpointing a High-Impact Core Idea
How to identify concepts that resonate in a short format and stand out in festivals.
📝 Condensing Narrative for Maximum Effect
Crafting tight, engaging stories that fit the short film structure and captivate audiences.
🎥 Using Visuals to Drive the Story
Leveraging cinematography and production design to communicate themes and emotions.
🔄 Effective Pacing and Timing
Mastering the rhythm and pacing of a short film to ensure a memorable viewing experience.
Comedy in Motion: Crafting Laughter from Simple Moments
This event will take place over Zoom on November 12th 6pm to 7:30pm (BST)
Welcoming Carys Thomas!
2024 BAFTA Rocliffe New Writing, All3Media Edinburgh Television Festival New Writer’s Collective. Top 1% of the BBC Writer’s Room Open Call.
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In the world of comedy, understanding how to transform a simple scene into a comedic masterpiece is essential for any writer looking to make a lasting impact. This workshop will delve into the vital techniques that define successful comedic storytelling, empowering participants to craft engaging narratives that resonate with audiences.
🧑🎤 Character Development: Create relatable yet exaggerated characters, drawing inspiration from real-life observations to understand how their traits can lead to comedic moments.
🎭 Crafting Comedic Scenarios: Brainstorm and pitch comedic scenarios, working together to transform a simple plot point into a humorous scene.
🤸 Visual Comedy and Physicality: Discover how to incorporate visual gags and physical comedy into your scenes, amplifying humor through action and movement.
🔄 Refine and Feedback: Present your developed scenes and receive constructive feedback to refine your comedic storytelling and performance skills.
Introduction to Script Reading & Reporting
This event will take place over Zoom on June 16th 1:30pm to 3pm (BST)
Diving into script reading and reporting marks an essential entry point into the film industry in the UK.
In this pivotal role, readers wield significant influence over the fate of scripts, determining their acceptance or rejection by production companies. Understanding this role and mastering this craft opens doors to fruitful collaborations with producers and executives, paving the way for potential opportunities in development roles.
This workshop is aimed at creatives interested in learning more about the Development stage of a project, aspiring script readers and Screenwriters looking for insider knowledge.
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What to Expect:
Identifying a Good Script: Learn how to recognise compelling narratives and scripts, essential for those new to development.
Writing Script Reports: Learn practical approaches to crafting detailed script reports, supported by real-life examples to illustrate effective reporting methods.
Understanding the Reader's Role: Explore the reader's position in the industry and its relevance to script development processes.
Improving Report Quality: Receive tips for enhancing the quality of your reports, focusing on foundational aspects to help you provide valuable feedback to writers and producers.
TV Workshop: Crafting a Scripted Drama Series
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 2nd June 2024.
TV Workshop: Creating a Series 🎥
Embarking on your very own journey towards a TV Series? Maybe you’ve always thought about writing for TV but you’ve no idea how to create that Arc and go from the first to the last episode.
This session has been crafted for Writers venturing into the realm of television storytelling. We’ll unravel the essential elements that will shape your unique idea. Let's dive into the key areas that we’ll cover:
• Understanding the Significance of TV Series Storytelling:
The different kinds of Series Arcs that captivate audiences in the realm of TV series.
How does that vary across genres, and what impact does it have on viewer engagement?
• Mapping the Journey
Learn practical techniques for mapping out a series arc that spans multiple seasons, from establishing a compelling beginning to planning satisfying resolutions and cliffhangers.
• Balancing Continuity and Flexibility:
Explore strategies for maintaining continuity and coherence throughout the series while allowing room for creative evolution and adaptation based on audience feedback and changing storytelling needs.
Directing Feature Documentaries: Bringing Real Stories to Life
This event will take place over Zoom from 6pm - 7:30pm (BST) on 30th April 2024.
Directing Documentary Films for Broadcast, Online or Theatrical Release.
Unveil the art of directing impactful documentaries in this immersive workshop designed for aspiring filmmakers.
Paul Sng - DISPOSSESSION, POLY STYRENE: I AM A CLICHE (winner of BIFA 2021 Best Documentary, BIFA 2021 Raindance Discovery Award) and TISH (Sheffield DocFest 2023 Opening Gala film) is joining us for the first time to lead this training event.
Key Highlights:
Powerful Interview Techniques: Learn the art of conducting interviews that capture authentic stories.
Crafting a Documentary Package: Discover strategies for presenting your documentary in a compelling package suitable for broadcast, online platforms, or even theatrical release.
Structuring Your Documentary: Explore the nuances of documentary structure versus traditional narrative.
Navigating Post-Production: Gain insights into the practical aspects of completing your documentary, including budgeting, marketing, distribution strategies, and navigating the festival circuit.
Elevate Your Filmmaking Skills: Delve into real-world case studies and analysis to understand the do's and don'ts of documentary filmmaking.
Don't miss this chance to refine your documentary filmmaking craft and share your stories with the world. Reserve your spot now for an enriching journey into the heart of non-fiction storytelling.
Writing Cinematically
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 28th April 2024.
🚀 Writing Cinematically
Writing cinematically is the art of translating words into images, creating a symphony of sight and sound that resonates with audiences. As a Writer, your responsibility is to guide the reader through your script in a way that captivates their emotions and stirs their imagination
What to expect:
Vivid and Evocative Scenes: Discover techniques for crafting scenes & translating emotions into visual sequences that resonate with audiences.
Setting Mood and Tone: Explore how to set the mood and tone of your script through cinematic writing, influencing how readers feel as they navigate your story's landscape.
Commissioners & Script Readers: Learn tips and tricks to make your script stand out to commissioners and script readers.
Case Studies and Analysis: Dive deep into real-world examples with case studies, exploring the do's and don'ts of writing cinematically. Understand why certain techniques work and how you can apply them effectively to elevate your own scripts.
Writing for the Market Workshop
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 24th March 2024.
🚀 Writing for the Market Workshop
Learn about crafting a market-ready script in this transformative workshop. Dive into the intricacies that captivate producers, stay attuned to current market trends, and master the art of a pitch that commands attention.
What to expect:
• Explore the elements that make a script attractive to producers.
• Understand current market trends and how to tailor your writing accordingly.
• Master the art of crafting a compelling pitch that grabs producers' attention.
• Get insights into the business side of filmmaking and how it influences script selection.
• Develop a checklist to ensure your script meets industry standards.
Crowdfunding Strategies for Filmmakers & Building Audience Engagement.
This event will take place over Zoom from 6pm - 7:30pm (BST) on 12th March 2024.
🚀 FREE WORKSHOP with Greenlit
Crowdfunding Strategies for Filmmakers & Building Audience Engagement.
Join us on this game-changing workshop for filmmakers seeking the perfect blend of funding and audience support.
What to Expect:
Our collaboration with Greenlit brings you insights from experts in the field, ensuring an invaluable experience for anyone looking to fund their film projects through crowdfunding. Discover the art of crafting successful crowdfunding strategies, unravel the secrets of engaging your audience, and dive into real-world case studies that bring these concepts to life.
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Producer-Writer Dynamic: Creative & Collaborative Partnership
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 25th February 2024.
🚀 Workshop Focus: Successful Producer-Writer Partnership
Join us on this enriching workshop led by Producer Dami from Elysium Pictures.
Delve into the essential components of the Producer and Writer Dynamic, focusing on:
Writer's Perspective: Grasp crucial considerations for writers when entering a collaborative partnership with a producer. Explore the unique dynamics and expectations to set the stage for a harmonious creative journey.
Expectations Unveiled: Gain insights into what writers can expect from their relationship with a producer and how to navigate potential challenges.
Optimising Collaboration: Learn strategies to make the producer-writer relationship the best it can be.
Producer's Contribution: What is a Producer expected to bring to the table? Grasp the multifaceted role a producer plays in elevating the overall quality of a project.
Creating Impactful Scenes: A Director’s Perspective
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 3rd December 2023.
🎥 Creating Impactful Scenes 🌟
Unlock the art of visual storytelling in this exclusive workshop designed for writers, directors, and producers. Led by industry expert Sara Harrak, the session delves into the director's perspective, offering valuable insights for every storyteller on how to identify and lift pivotal moments off the script and bring them to life on screen with precision and creative flair.
🖋️ For Writers: Understand how directors interpret and transform your words into visuals, enhancing the emotional impact of your narrative. Collaborate effectively with directors to bring your story to life on screen.
🎬 For Directors: Dive into scene analysis, key moment identification, and visual storytelling techniques
💡 For Producers: Gain insights into the creative process of crafting scenes. Understand the director's language to communicate effectively and contribute meaningfully to visual development.
Join us on the 3rd of December, from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM!
TV Development: Pitching to Networks and Streamers
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 5th November 2023 .
📺 TV: Pitching and Development Workshop 🚀
In this captivating workshop led by the seasoned expert Melody Ruiz, you'll dive into the art of crafting compelling TV show concepts that leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
🔍Discover the nuances of pitching your ideas with confidence, clarity, and persuasive power, regardless of your chosen genre.
🎬Gain invaluable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of Networks and Streamers.
Join us on the 5th of November, 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM!
Documentary: Ethics and Imapct
This event will take place over Zoom from 6pm - 7:30pm (BST) on 22nd August 2023 .
Step into the realm of captivating documentary storytelling guided by the expertise of acclaimed filmmaker, Carl Woods. 🎥✨
Carl Woods, an accomplished documentary filmmaker renowned for his ability to craft human-centered narratives from diverse corners of the globe, invites you to delve into the heart of documentary filmmaking.
Carl shares his wealth of knowledge and insights gained from a journey that culminated in the creation of his debut feature, 'My Everest'. Premiered at the prestigious BFI IMAX and later gracing cinema screens across the UK, 'My Everest' stands as a testament to the profound impact that compelling storytelling can achieve.
In this immersive workshop, you will:
📽️ Explore the ethical dimensions of documentary filmmaking and its role in raising awareness.
🌟 Uncover strategies to maximize the impact of your documentary, amplifying its reach and influence.
🎥 Gain insights into the creative process behind captivating narratives that spark conversations.
🌎 Dive into real-world case studies that showcase the potential of ethical storytelling to drive positive change.
Whether you're an aspiring documentarian or a storyteller at heart, this workshop promises to equip you with the tools and insights needed to infuse your story with depth, impact, and undeniable human touch.
Grab your spot now!
Casting Workshop: Fran Cattaneo
This is an intimate setting with a view to keep the size of the class small, so please ensure you secure your spot early.
This event will take place over Zoom from 1:30pm - 3pm (BST) on 30th July 2023 .
We are incredibly excited to welcome [Senior] Casting Assistant and Casting Director Fran Cattaneo to host this workshop.
As many actors know, it is vital to build relationships with Casting Directors as well as nail the Audition process and present their best selves.
This is an opportunity for you to meet with Fran, work on scripts and scene work together and present them in front of each other and gain feedback.
Attending this workshop is your opportunity to gain invaluable experience with Fran, fine-tune your audition skills, and receive personalised feedback on your performances.
The TV Landscape: Breaking into the Industry
This event will take place over Zoom from 6pm - 7:30pm (BST) on 11th July 2023 .
Want to learn the ins and outs of the industry from an expert? Our TV Landscape: Breaking into the TV Industry workshop is here to guide you on that path.
With years of experience working with top broadcasters like the BBC, Channel 4, and Apple TV+, we are proud to welcome industry guest and TV Producer, Melody Ruiz to bring her wealth of knowledge to this class.
In this workshop, you'll explore the different genres, sub-genres and job roles within TV, learn how to market yourself to potential employers, discover where to find jobs and how to build your network, and gain valuable tips for securing opportunities. Whether you're an aspiring writer, producer, or director, or simply curious about the inner workings of television, this workshop is tailored to provide a thorough view and equip you with the essential tools to break into this exciting field.
Note: This workshop is best suited to those looking for entry-level/early career opportunities in TV or those experienced in a different field looking to transfer into television.
Don't miss out! Sign up now.
Tarot: A tool for Storytelling
This event will take place over Zoom from 6pm - 7:30pm (BST) on 13th June 2023 .
Ignite your storytelling journey with the mystical guidance of tarot. Join us for an immersive workshop where you'll discover how tarot readings can breathe life into your narratives and unlock new dimensions of creativity.
Led by film and theatre maker, Giulia Maglione, this workshop is designed to empower you with practical techniques and insights to enhance your storytelling prowess.
During the workshop, you'll embark on a fascinating exploration of tarot as a creative tool.
Begin with a brief introduction to the tarot's symbolic language, followed by a dive into the heart of tarot storytelling by drawing three cards: one for the story's start, one for the journey, and one for the resolution.
Delve into character arcs, world-building, and evocative settings. Engage with thought-provoking questions such as "Where is my character going?" and "What emotions permeate this world?" Let the tarot guide your creative intuition and lead you to inspired storytelling choices.
Don't miss out, jump on in!
Story Development
Join us as we welcome Alexandra Dorian for a workshop on developing your story for the screen. With over 200 film campaigns under her belt, Alexandra has a wealth of experience in pulling out the heart of a story and developing it to sell to audiences.
She has worked on some of film's most memorable and profitable releases, including Harry Potter, The Dark Knight, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
In this workshop, Alexandra will share her expertise on script development, including structure, mechanics, global markets, and what producers look for.
This is a must-attend workshop for screenwriters looking to take their storytelling to the next level and make their projects viable for the big screen.
Script Analysis and Coverage
Join us for an insightful and interactive script analysis and coverage workshop with the talented Klara Kaliger!
If you're interested in writing, directing or producing films, this workshop is for you. We’ll move through the process of how to analyse and provide feedback on a script, including writing a good logline and synopsis, and the do's and don'ts of commenting in a script report.
During the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to work with a short script that Klara will provide, and we'll also give you a script report outline to follow along with.
In addition to learning about script analysis, Klara will also share her practical advice on how to find reading work and reach out to people in the industry.
This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge from a seasoned industry professional and receive expert feedback on your own writing. Don't miss out! Sign up now.
Short Filmmaking: Choosing the right idea
Our last session with Mariella Hudson was so insightful that we’ve decided to welcome her back for our next Class!
Are you interested in making a short film but struggling to develop ideas?
The ideation stage of any project is arguably the most challenging part. What makes a short film work? What is interesting? What do people want to see? What do you care about?
This class is aimed at those interested in writing or directing a short film. Perhaps you have done so already, or you are entirely new to the venture. Either way, let’s jump in!