Directing Your Short Film: From Pre-Production to Film Festivals

Do you have a short film idea or script that you’re planning to direct but don’t know where to start? Are you an emerging filmmaker looking for step-by-step guidance? Learn everything you need to make your short film a reality with an experienced director as your guide.

In this live, online weekend intensive, you will learn how to break down your script and work with actors, establish your visual style, understand the steps required to assemble your crew, plan your production, navigate post-production, and deliver your film to a festival audience.

The instructor will demystify the terms, roles and procedures you need to know before you step on your film set. This course is suited for beginner to mid-level fiction filmmakers as well as documentary filmmakers looking to transition into fiction. Class sessions will include lectures, a case study, and opportunities to ask questions.

What you bring to the course:

• a desire to learn the step-by-step process of making a short film

What you’ll get from the course:

• an understanding of the short film format, including different lengths and genres
• tools and confidence to establish your visual style and cinematic language
• approaches to casting, working with actors, and assembling your crew
• the knowledge you need to collaborate with your editor and post-production team
• how to develop an approach to film festivals and an understanding of possibilities for distribution

This course will:

• provide tools and techniques that apply to short films of all budgets
• connect you with other creators via a discussion board where you can discuss core concepts and share your work

Intensive Schedule

Friday, December 13:

4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. PT

Saturday, December 14:

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PT

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. PT

Sunday, December 15:

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PT

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. PT

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and are considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Those who apply earlier will have a greater chance of getting support. To apply for a scholarship, please complete the registration form and follow the instructions on the left side to fill out a scholarship application.

Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.