List of Modules
The curriculum is organised into 10 modules, each of which covers a
specific aspect of film production. These modules are not taught in a
linear way, i.e., in order of listing, but rather in an integrated way
where several modules may be underway at any one time. This enables
tutors to better reflect the process of filmmaking and also allows the
flexibility to accommodate availability of visiting tutors and the
ability to take advantage of production opportunities as they arise.
01 Story 1 – Writing
Introduces students to the skill of writing for the screen. It explores various forms and methods of scriptwriting such as script formatting, story generation and genre writing. Students are encouraged to develop their own ideas and produce short scripts.
Students will be able to: understand the role and power of story and storytelling; understand film and television genre and style; understand the tools of screenwriting and the elements of a script; understand the concept and design of scripts, including structure, character and characterisation; appreciate the role of critical analysis of film and television.
02 Story 2 – Documentary
Introduces students to the art of documentary making. It explores
various forms and methods of non-fictional storytelling and a range of
documentaries will be viewed. Students are encouraged to develop their
own ideas and are required to make their own documentary.
Students will be able to: understand the place of documentaries and the
differences and similarities between drama and documentary making;
understand the processes of documentary making; utilise the tools of
documentary making.
03 Story 3 – Editing
Introduces students to the art of editing and gives them the requisite
technical skills to edit. It explores ideas of narrative and how to cut;
workflow as it relates to a range of differently generated footage;
also the relationships in the editing process including the
director/editor relationship. Students are encouraged to develop their
own ideas and are required to edit their own and others' work.
04 Craft 1 – Technical
Introduces students to the technical skills of filmmaking in the areas of digital media, camera, lighting and sound.
Students will be able to: understand digital media; understand and use a
range of digital and film cameras; understand lighting; understand
sound.
05 Craft 2 – Production
Introduces students to the production skills of film making in the areas
of continuity, assistant directing, art department and production
management.
Students will be able to: understand the role of continuity and script
supervision; understand the role of the Assistant Director; understand
the art department; understand the film production office and the film
crew.
06 Craft 3 – Film Intensive
Develops students' skills in filmmaking.
Students will be able to: understand the roles within the camera crew;
understand the principles of cinematography; understand and use a range
of film cameras; understand lighting; understand laboratory processes.
07 Production 1 – End of Term Film and Five-Minute Drama
Introduces students to practical drama production. The module focuses on
all aspects of location drama production. Students produce one short
film as a crew working with a professional creative team. Students also
write and direct their own five-minute film and assist with the
production of several others in a variety of production roles covering
all major disciplines.
Students will be able to: write a script for a 5-minute film; produce a
5-minute film; direct a 5-minute film; understand on-set procedures;
further develop technical filmmaking skills; demonstrate an ability to
work with editing software; demonstrate an ability to edit a short film;
demonstrate an understanding of the various on-set crew roles.
08 Production 2 – Graduation films
Enables students to combine their learning from all other modules into
practical film production. It is a practical module which focuses on all
aspects of film production and is conducted to professional standards.
Students produce two or three short films as a crew.
Students will be able to: understand the production process; engage with
a short film script; produce a short film; understand the film
production office and the film crew; understand on-set procedures;
further develop technical filmmaking skills; demonstrate an ability to
edit a short film; demonstrate an understanding of sound editing;
demonstrate an understanding of the various on-set crew roles and work
with others in a crew.
09 Contextual Studies
Introduces students to the background, content and context of the film
and television mediums. It explores various forms of filmmaking, the
history of film and the business of film. Students are encouraged to
explore films and film history both in class and in their own time.
Students will be able to: understand the history of the New Zealand film
and television industry; understand the politics and cultural context
of the New Zealand film and television industry; understand the business
of employment in the New Zealand film industry; understand the business
of film production; understand the marketing and distribution of film.
10 The Filmmaker's Journey
Students are encouraged to demonstrate how they live life as filmmakers.
Students will be able to: understand the importance of attendance;
understand the importance of crew support; research and present a film;
identify their progress; present themselves to the industry.