FILM - Film & Photography

FILM 101IH Understanding Film and Media: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

(F, Sp, Su) This course provides students with the tools of film and media analysis as a foundation for future cinema study and practice. Close analysis of films from different countries and time periods will be used to recognize the formal elements of film production, principally style and narrative.

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List and define basic film studies terminology
List and explain at least three of the dominant concepts, methods and debates informing the analysis of moving images
Demonstrate fundamental skills in the close formal, thematic, generic, and authorial analysis of different kinds of films
Articulate how films organize discrete formal elements into meaningful relationships
Write a coherent, substantiated argument in clear and correct prose

FILM 112 Aesthetics of Film Production I: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

(F, Sp) An understanding of motion pictures, video art and television practice through study of principles of concept and production. Will include assignments to view and critique selected examples and the completion of short exercises.

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Describe the three major film forms\\n
Demonstrate an understanding of Fiction Film through creation of a short fiction scene\\n
Demonstrate the understanding of Documentary Film through creation of a process film\\n
Demonstrate an understanding of Experimental Film through the creation of a short film.

FILM 122IA Acting for Non-Majors: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

(F, Sp) Introduction to the craft of acting. By utilizing a variety of acting exercises and techniques, students will cultivate a deeper understanding of actors’ skills and how to better communicate as storytellers. In workshop format, students will have the opportunity to perform a diverse collection of dramatic literature while connecting to their creative side through performance.

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develop the ability to work as an ensemble and to refine their skills as collaborative artists.
study human behavior to cultivate deeper understandings of the human condition thus building skills of cognitive and emotional empathy.\\n
formulate a personalized approach to acting by integrating acting methods and techniques into their theatrical work.
read diverse literature to identify, interpret, and evaluate acting techniques and storytelling methods.\\n
strengthen creative and analytical thinking.
establish confidence in communication skills, public speaking, and decision-making skills. \\n

FILM 191 Special Topics: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

On demand. One-time offerings of current topics, experimental offerings of new courses, or experimental offerings of visiting professors.
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

FILM 201D Film History I: Origins to the 1960s: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 101IH. (F) A survey of major developments in international film history from the 1890s to the 1960s, examining the aesthetic, social, cultural and technological dimensions of cinema

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Recognize the ways in which films can be related to the historical contexts from which they emerged
Compare and contrast the forms, traditions and styles of filmmaking in different contexts and timeframes
Research and evaluate relevant critical and historical materials for the study of film
Critically and objectively analyze individual films
Demonstrate, through the writing of essay and research papers, appropriate research and bibliographic skills and a capacity to construct a coherent, substantiated and well-written argument that is relevant to the study of film history.
Recognize the diverse possibilities of film as an important cultural phenomenon, entertainment industry and art form

FILM 202D Film History II: 1960s to the Present: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 101IH. (Sp) A survey of major developments in international film and media history from the 1960s to the present, examining the aesthetic, economic, cultural and technological dimensions of moving images

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Recognize the principal concepts, methods and debates informing the study of film history from the 1960s to the present
Demonstrate an awareness of the ways in which films can be related to the historical contexts from which they emerged
Understand and articulate differences in the forms, traditions and styles of filmmaking in different national and international contexts
Be able to construct a coherent, substantiated argument, and write clear and correct prose, using appropriate research and bibliographic skills.
Research and evaluate relevant critical and historical materials for the study of film
Question assumptions, distinguish between fact and opinion, and to reflect critically on your own learning process.

FILM 212 Aesthetics Film Production II: 4 Credits (4 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 101IH, FILM 112 and PHOT 113RA or consent of instructor. (F, Sp) An intensive intermediate course in the fundamental aspects of film production. Students learn to use professional filmmaking tools and apply these skills to short productions. The course emphasizes the language of visual/aural storytelling and the development of directorial vision

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Explain filmmaking procedures and practices.
Demonstrate how to handle filmmaking equipment safely and professionally.
Demonstrate how to work successfully in teams to accomplish shared goals.
Explain the Film medium.
Demonstrate how to plan, execute, compose and get proper coverage of a scene.
Explain the process of a filmmaker and demonstrate how to be part of the filmmaking team.\\n
Develop a personal creative vision using the film medium.
Discover more independent and more complex filmmaking projects.

FILM 215IH American Popular Television: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

(Sp) Exploration of one of the most influential forms of media in the American cultural landscape. Television and the evolution of its programming has reinforced and challenged cultural and social norms, racial divides, sexism, gender roles, and what we understand as entertainment and news. The shifts in how we watch television have disrupted traditional economic, technological, and policy media models, and ask us to re-imagine the medium.

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Students will be able to articulate the role of television programming in shaping, challenging and shifting cultural, social and political norms.
Students will be able to describe the shifting economic and regulatory environment in which television programming exists from early broadcasting to contemporary streaming services.
Students will be able to reflect upon and connect conditions shaping American popular television to their own viewing experiences and preferences.
Through a scaffolding of assignments and research during the semester, culminating in a final project, students will a demonstrate am understanding of core course concepts through an integrated analysis of a specific television series and make an informed commentary on its place in American popular television.

FILM 251 Scriptwriting: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 101IH, FILM 112 and PHOT 113RA or consent of instructor. (Sp) Experience in techniques and concepts of writing for film and other media

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Demonstrate an understanding of proper screenplay structure and mechanics.
Develop relatable and understandable characters (who aren’t you).
Develop relatable, interesting, and entertaining stories.
Demonstrate an ability to rework treatments and outlines in order to identify and address dramatic and structural problems with your ideas.

FILM 253 Television Production: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 101IH, FILM 112 and PHOT 113RA or consent of instructor. (Sp) Introduces students to live television production and multi-camera studio operations, and the technologies used in the production and delivery of live TV. Explores the group production process using hands-on exercises in a working studio environment

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Demonstrate an understanding of the technology used in live television production.
Describe the group process of live television production, and the roles of typical crew positions.
Successfully script, crew, and produce short live productions.

FILM 254 Acting for Film: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 101IH, FILM 112 and PHOT 113RA or consent of instructor. (F) An introduction to the basic skills of acting through acting exercises and individual projects, including a unit for acting for the camera

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Students will identify and describe acting terminology and concepts used to analyze a script from an actor’s point of view.
Student actor/directors will demonstrate the ability to analyze and break down a scripted scene utilizing beats, intentions, character objectives, obstacles, strategies, subtext and motivation.
Students will examine and demonstrate acting as a process built on conscious structures of design, through artistic choices, rehearsal and performance.\\n
Students will demonstrate a personal process of storytelling, as an actor, through performance grounded in personal connection, artistic risk-taking, and collaboration with their scene partner(s).
Students will examine similarities and differences in the technical aspects, workflow, and achieved results of acting for a live audience versus the camera.
Students will apply an informed understanding of the acting processes that will support their creative work and professional work as filmmakers.

FILM 259 Multimedia Audio Production: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: MTEC majors only: MUST 220 and EELE 217; all other majors: consent of instructor. (Sp) The study of theoretical and practical approaches to audio production for multimedia, to include ADR/Dialog replacement, Foley, sound effects, field/location recording, studio recording, music integration and editing, surround sound techniques/encoding, delivery paradigms, and aesthetics of audio for multimedia

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demonstrate knowledge of techniques involved in the production of audio for multimedia through in-class discussion, reading, and projects.\\n\\n\\n\\n
become familiar with the process of ADR/Dialog Replacement, Field/Location Recording, Studio Recording, Music Integration and Editing through individual and group projects.
demonstrate knowledge of technical and artistic production of Foley, Sound Effects, Surround Sound Techniques demonstrated through individual and group projects.
have a working knowledge of Encoding, and Delivery Paradigms gain through readings assignments, in-class discussion and group/individual projects.
develop an understanding of the Aesthetics of Audio for Multimedia through discussion and critique.

FILM 290R Undergraduate Research: 1-6 Credits (1-6 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. () On demand. Directed undergraduate research which may culminate in a written work or other creative project. Course will address responsible conduct of research
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

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Directed undergraduate research which may culminate in a written work or other creative project. Course will address responsible conduct of research.

FILM 291 Special Topics: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: None required but some may be determined necessary by the department. On demand. One-time offerings of current topics, experimental offerings of new courses, or experimental offerings of visiting professors
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

FILM 295 Practicum: 1-3 Credits (1-3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. () On demand. Practical experience associated with production and research project in motion pictures, television/video, photography, and theatre. May include rehearsal or performance activity. Credit will be offered to students doing basic work on faculty members' productions or on student productions under direct faculty supervision. Credit will be offered to students giving basic technical support to: a)faculty teaching courses, b)faculty engaged in creative activities, or c)advanced students' productions (while supervised by an SFP faculty member)
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

FILM 304 Live Production and Camera: 4 Credits (4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. (Sp) This course is designed to provide student filmmakers an opportunity to create a fully realized live theatrical performance captured on video through a multi-camera recording. Students explore the crafts and responsibilities involved in the execution of theatrical design and performance as well as capturing this live event through the lens of the video camera. The delivery of material happens through lectures, exercises, hands-on workshops, and production assignments, which prepare designated production teams for the final presentation and video recording

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Understand the limitations and possibilities of theatrical narrative storytelling produced as a continual live performance in a theatre space.
Define and describe terminology used in the theatre related to the theatre facility, production procedures, performance, design, and front of house operations.
Demonstrate planning and meeting of all production deadlines.
Manage budgets and utilize available resources for production and video needs
Demonstrate effective teamwork and coordination of various departments of theatre production and camera.
Demonstrate individual proficiency as a specialized craftsperson/ artisans of the production teams, theatrical and camera.

FILM 333 Production Management: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212, FILM 251 and FILM 254 or consent of instructor. (F) A comprehensive approach to managing the personnel, creative, and financial resources of media production in both fiction and nonfiction productions. Learn script breakdown, budgeting, scheduling, financing, legal requirements, paperwork, and exhibition options. Study how, in the new production environment of digital and streaming, the five stages of production – development, preproduction, principal photography, post production, and distribution - work with one another

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Students will master each of the parameters affecting scheduling.
Students will apply the parameters to breaking down, scheduling, and budgeting a script.
Students will demonstrate the ability to read a script and/or watch a completed film from the perspective of production.
Students will be able to identify production elements of a proposed project that may be especially problematic.
Students will master the definitions of each of the critical positions in both fiction and nonfiction productions.
Students will have the ability to successfully use Movie Magic Scheduling and Budgeting.
Students will demonstrate the ability to create a budget with a consideration of standard wages, fringes, union and guild rules and other factors.\\n
Students will understand the seismic changes taking place in film and video production and distribution because of digital-based production and streaming.
Students will demonstrate the ability to identify basic legal structures, restrictions, and terms that are involved in a production.

FILM 341 Special Effects Makeup for Film: 3 Credits (3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. (Sp) In-depth study and execution of makeup design techniques for filmmakers. Costume and character design theory and process will be covered including rendering techniques, history, research and project presentation

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Demonstrate effective use of highlight and shadow to emphasize dimensionality with cosmetics.
Plan and execute a makeup design utilizing research and original creative ideas.
Understand and execute the process for creating facial-like casting, character sculpture, and prosthetic application to create character design.
Demonstrate the ability to design costumes through sketches and renderings for selected characters in conjunction with the three realized makeup designs.

FILM 351 Advanced Script Writing: 3 Credits (3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212, FILM 251 and FILM 254 or consent of instructor. (F) Advanced training in the techniques of writing for film, television, and new media projects. This class requires students to author a long-form screenplay

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Demonstrate how to properly format a feature length screenplay.
Write a premise, logline, treatment, step-outline, character arcs, and three act structure
Write and rewrite Act I of a feature length screenplay, as well as finish a first draft of the entire screenplay

FILM 352 Editing: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 112 or consent of instructor. (Sp) History and techniques of motion picture and video editing. The course will combine lectures with hands-on exercises in editing

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Demonstrate media organization strategies appropriate to narrative, documentary, and experimental film editing.
Create a compelling visual/aural short documentary using silent archival footage.
Demonstrate storytelling competence by restructuring a narrative short film using industry-standard video editing tools.\\n
Creatively solve a storytelling problem while managing a “double system sound” workflow.\\n
Demonstrate an understanding of the technical aspects of contemporary film editing through a series of short quizzes.

FILM 353 Advanced Television Production: 4 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 253 or consent of instructor. (F) Majors only. Provides students with further hands-on live television production experience, in both studio and field production environments. Builds upon the beginning class, to develop the concepts and knowledge required for real-world live television production. At the end of this class, students will have acquired the practical skills for entry-level television production, and will have produced completed work suitable for public distribution

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Articulate the similarities and differences and the strengths and weaknesses of single camera and multi-camera production styles, as well as being able to articulate the pros and cons of particular production styles for different types of programming.
Demonstrate at least one area of studio production operation that involves live broadcasts including live remote field production (e.g., Producing, incl. Budgeting, Contracts, Planning and Production Management, Directing, Technical Directing, Production Design Graphics, Audio Design Mixing, Post-Production Processes)
Explain basic legal requirements for broadcast studio production (e.g., releases contractual arrangements, licensing, broadcast content restrictions)

FILM 354 Lighting: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. () Alternate year Spring. An introduction to the aesthetics and technical principles of lighting for film and theatre with attention to familiarity with basic instruments and a lighting board. The opportunity for an exercise in lighting design will be provided

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Describe and identified at least five functions of lighting to visual storytelling
Demonstrate proper technique to set up and operate various lighting instruments used in film lighting.
Define and describe terminology related to fundamental physics of light and basic principles of electricity.\\n
Demonstrate techniques to control lighting to execute the functions of light through the execution of lighting a scene.

FILM 355 Cinematography: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. (F) An examination of the aesthetics and practice of cinematography

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Explain the Roles and Responsibilities of the DP
Explain the Roles and Responsibilities of Crew
Describe foundations in Cinematography Lighting
Discover advanced Topics in Cinematography Lighting
Demonstrate the Pitch and Proposal Process of Creative Projects
Demonstrate revisualizing your Film with your iPhone
Demonstrate color Workflows
Explain Lighting Grip Overview
Explain Mood Reels Look Books
Demonstrate Location Scouting
Demonstrate Monitoring Your Image
Demonstrate Discussion Critique
Demonstrate Staging and Blocking
Demonstrate Visual Storytelling and Film Grammar
Develop unique looks and your visual style
Demonstrate Directing Camera with intention

FILM 356 Production Design: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. () Alternate year Spring. Introductory course in production design for theatre, film and video

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Communicate story, theme, concept through artistic choices as a designer.
Demonstrate ability to utilize visual research to support artistic choices of the design.
Demonstrate tools of the craft to convey the visual plan in a way to guide production execution.
Demonstrate and execute knowledge of basic scenic construction techniques.

FILM 357 Directing: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212, FILM 251 and FILM 254 or consent of instructor. (Sp) An examination of the theory and practice of directing for film

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Articulate the limitations and possibilities of Directing.
Articulate the role and responsibilities of the Director.
Demonstrate the ability to Cast, Rehearse, and Direct a Scene.
Demonstrate the ability to Block a scene and foster Trust.
Explain the Directing Process from Proferes, Weston and Stanislavski’s Methods.
Execute the in-depth analysis and research into scenes from films of your choosing.
Articulate and honestly critique their own and their peers to the workshop processes.

FILM 359 Sound Design: 3 Credits (3 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. (F) Theoretical and practical approaches to the motion picture soundtrack. Topics and exercises will include location recording, post-production, sound design, and the musical score

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Demonstrate the ability to describe and assess the qualities of sound design in motion pictures.
Demonstrate knowledge of the principles, procedures, and techniques of creative sound design for motion pictures through the creation of sound projects for film.
Demonstrate basic efficiency in field-sound or location recording.
Demonstrate basic proficiency in post-production sound editing, multi-track mixing, and audio processing.
Apply this knowledge as the sound designer for advanced student film projects.

FILM 370 Color Grading for Film & TV: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212. (Sp) Color grading is a necessary stage in the post-production of narrative and documentary films. This course fits within our existing film production curriculum that emphasizes project-based hands-on learning

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Students will demonstrate mastery of the “round trip” between editing and color grading software\\n\\n
Students will create Resolve timelines, administer various nodes and qualifying skills
Students will identify and implement primary, secondary color corrections and animate power windows with appropriate tracking
Students will demonstrate comprehension of color theory schemes and the applied psychology of color palettes within cinema
Students will successfully create Digital Cinema Packages for theatrical viewing\\n

FILM 371 Non-Fiction Film Production: 4 Credits (4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. (Sp) Exploration of the aesthetics and practice of creating documentary films. The course will use a variety of teaching modes to develop the understanding of documentary production. Students enrolled will produce short documentary films

View Course Outcomes:

Articulate a contemporary definition of ‘documentary’
List and define contemporary documentary techniques
Conduct an interview with professional lighting and sound techniques
Create a short documentary film from treatment to final film in small crews
Analyze and articulate story structure in a documentary film

FILM 372 Fiction Film Production: 4 Credits (4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212, FILM 251, and FILM 254 or consent of instructor. (F) Projects pursued under faculty supervision, emphasizing fiction productions using traditional and non-traditional approaches from pre-production through post-production. Details of individual sections and the supervising faculty will be posted by the department prior to pre-registration

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Students will practice clear story communication through verbal pitches, written screenplays, and visual look books for their film projects.
Students will demonstrate expertise in pre-production processes such as story crafting, critiquing, production design, script breakdowns, and casting.
Students will apply best practices in film production demonstrating proper set etiquette, safety on set, as well as implementing creative choices from preproduction into production.
Students will practice editing, daily reviews, film critiques, and other postproduction processes such as sound color correction.
Students will prepare their films for submission to film festivals as well as produce all supporting PR documents.

FILM 373 Experimental Film Production: 4 Credits (4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 212 or consent of instructor. (F) This course will provide an overview of some of the major artistic and critical trends in experimental/avant-garde film history as a foundation for developing an informed personal experimental filmmaking practice that is free from established conventions. Class time will be spent viewing and discussing films, discussing assigned readings, and workshopping production assignments

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Demonstrate proficiency with various tools and methods applicable to experimental filmmaking.
Demonstrate appreciation for and understanding of different modes of experimental film.
Demonstrate appreciation for and understanding of different critical contexts of experimental film.
Articulate an informed personal approach to experimental filmmaking.
Produce experimental films that reflect this informed personal approach.
Join the larger community of experimental film by entering film festivals.

FILM 381 Studies in Film: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 201D or FILM 202D or consent of instructor. (F, Sp) Studies in topics in film history, theory, genre, and national cinemas
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

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Identify the main theoretical movements in film theory, including their cultural and national contexts, and articulate the importance of those movements to the broader history of film theory.
Compare and critically evaluate theories of film and their applicability to past and contemporary media texts, viewers, industries, and cultural contexts.\\n
Communicate complex ideas about film theory clearly and persuasively, both verbally and in writing.\\n
Develop an original critical essay that integrates theoretical concepts into a larger, original argument and produce academic prose with complex, analytical, and evidence-based argumentation.

FILM 394 Seminar/Workshop: 2-4 Credits (2-4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. () On demand. Seminar/Workshop devoted to a specific topic in Film Production or Film Studies. Topics vary
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

FILM 395 Practicum: 1-3 Credits (1-3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Junior Standing in Film and consent of instructor. () On demand. Practical experience associated with production and research projects in motion pictures, television/video, photography, and theatre. May include rehearsal or performance activity. Credit will be offered to students doing advanced work on faculty members' productions or on student productions under direct faculty supervision
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

FILM 481 Advanced Studies in Film: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 201D or FILM 202D or consent of instructor. (F, Sp) Seminars in special historical, theoretical and critical studies topics designed for advanced majors in film
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

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Demonstrate the ability to write clearly and extensively about the central theorists, themes, and debates associated with the course's theoretical and/or practical focus in film analysis.

FILM 490R Undergraduate Research: 1-6 Credits (1-6 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of Instructor. () On demand. Directed undergraduate research which may culminate in a research paper, journal article, or undergraduate thesis. Course will address responsible conduct of research
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

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Directed undergraduate research which may culminate in a research paper, journal article, or undergraduate thesis. Course will address responsible conduct of research.

FILM 492 Independent Study: 1-3 Credits (1-3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor and approval of department head. () On demand. Directed research and study on an individual basis for advanced students
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

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Directed research and study on an individual basis for advanced students.

FILM 494 Seminar/Workshop: 1-4 Credits (1-4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. () On demand. Advanced topics in film and related media production practices. Topics Vary
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

View Course Outcomes:

Advanced topics in film and related media production practices. Topics Vary.

FILM 498 Career Internship: 2-12 Credits (2-12 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Junior standing. () On demand. An individualized assignment arranged with an outside agency, business, or other organization to provide guided experience in the field
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

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An individualized assignment arranged with an outside agency, business, or other organization to provide guided experience in the field.

FILM 499 Senior Production: 5 Credits (5 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: Senior standing and two of FILM 371 or FILM 372 or FILM 373 or FILM 304. (F, Sp) Senior capstone course. Direction or major production role on a short film or approved alternative production
Repeatable up to 10 credits.

View Course Outcomes:

Understanding of the limitations and possibilities of the short film
Effective utilization of available resources in the production of a film
Technical proficiency of all aspects of production
Effective teamwork and coordination of departments involved in production
Effective planning and meeting of deadlines
Understanding of the creative contributions of all phases of production
Effective utilization of and contribution to the workshop process
Appreciation and effective use of expressive potential of the film medium and its establishedconventions
Synthesis of knowledge
Ability to discuss goals, approach and execution of one’s project
Ability to honestly and fairly assess one’s own and one’s teammates performance throughcritique

FILM 504 Film and Documentary Theory: 4 Credits (4 Lec)

(F) An introduction to the genealogy of nonfiction filmmaking and the interdisciplinary field of documentary film studies from its inception to the present. This reading seminar will consider the diverse history of the form and how scholars and filmmakers have debated what documentary is and what it should do in different historical contexts.

View Course Outcomes:

describe and discuss the history of the documentary genre from the 1930s to the present.
identify at least six documentary studies scholars and their theories, and critically evaluate the argument and evidence that is being advanced by each of these theorists in support of their views.
discuss how the Eurocentric notions of documentary evidence and truth have been challenged over the past three decades.
formulate two strong arguments on how the boundaries between fiction and nonfiction in film have blurred in the age of digitization.
describe, analyze and criticize at least 15 documentary films.

FILM 505 Critical Approaches to Science and Natural History Filmmaking: 4 Credits (4 Other)

(Sp) Analysis and interpretation of the ethics, cultural value, social function, and communication issues related to science and natural history media. Emphasis is on communication practices, scientific method, and information dissemination as well as economic, social, gender, and equality issues.

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Discuss, analyze, and apply contemporary scholarship in film studies, the environmental humanities and sciences, and natural history writing.\\n
Practice and demonstrate through discussions and written assignments how to conduct formal analysis of a film, including the connections between its content, aesthetics, and the social and historical context of the films.
Communicate effectively and synthesize knowledge across these various fields through deep reading skills, effective note-taking, discussions, and writing assignments
Practice this expanding knowledge and theory by engaging in a semester-long multimedia natural history project focused on a local place in Bozeman.

FILM 510 Fundamentals of Filmmaking: 3 Credits (1 Lec, 2 Lab)

COREQUISITE: FILM 519. (F) This course introduces students to documentary filmmaking techniques. Students will gain experience in all aspects of production work through a series of production exercises and the creation of a short film

View Course Outcomes:

Analyze an image in terms of composition
Analyze a short documentary in terms of story structure
Define Basic film language terms
Identify shot sizes and conventions common in film language
Demonstrate beginning level camera skills
Demonstrate a three point lighting set up
Demonstrate a proper audio set up for an interview
Conduct a professional interview using a dual camera/ sound system \\nSummarize basic documentary film crew positions

FILM 513 Advanced Cinematography: 3 Credits (3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 510. (F) This course focuses on advanced cinematography for documentary film, including the history, theory, social and political dynamics, ethics, artistry, and technical competency of the craft

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The objective of this course is to teach you fundamental technical and creative skills in advanced cinematography.
Cinematic storytelling techniques
Advanced composition and movement
Technical elements of the digital camera lens and body
Traditional and non-traditional modes of shooting
One-man band shooting with sound
Natural and artificial lighting techniques
To be able to work as a contributing member of a non-fiction film crew

FILM 515 Science and Natural History Film Production: 4 Credits (4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 510, FILM 519, FILM 504. (Sp) This course will teach production techniques used by professional science and natural history filmmakers

View Course Outcomes:

Practice the ability to successfully pitch a science or natural history film idea.
Demonstrate technical and aesthetic proficiency in SNH film production.
Gain experience in managing a documentary crew on location.
Develop an understanding of scientific literacy and a dedication to being as scientifically accurate as possible in their films.
Successfully research, develop, and execute the production of a short format science and natural history film, taking it from concept to final film.

FILM 517 Production Management: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 510
COREQUISITE: FILM 515. (Sp) This graduate seminar will cover a broad overview of production management in documentary filmmaking. The course will include defining the different roles of a producer and the key aspects of managing the personnel, intellectual content, and financial resources from early research and fundraising through production to post production, distribution planning, impact strategy. The course will also ask students to engage in life planning to succeed as professional filmmakers
.

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Demonstrate effective budgeting and scheduling of nonfiction films.
Demonstrate a mastery of the parameters of production and how they affect the success of a film.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of the phases of a nonfiction production including distribution.
Exhibit a working knowledge of the legal aspects of a production including forms, contracts, releases, permits, and fair use restrictions.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of grant writing, fundraising, and money management.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the fundamental changes in media production and delivery.
Demonstrate an understanding of the challenges in science communication created by social media and political misinformation.
Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the basics of project management and their role in production.

FILM 518 Writing for Documentary and Non-Fiction Film: 3 Credits (3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 510. (Sp) This graduate seminar will focus on the various writing skills needed to develop a documentary film project. This includes developing a topic into a documentary story, analysis of short and long form documentary structure and storytelling strategies, writing original film treatments and proposals and developing skills to write about yourself as a professional film artist

View Course Outcomes:

Identify and articulate a clear premise for a film idea.
Identify and articulate a through-line for a film idea.
Develop a clear narrative structure for a non-fiction film idea.
Infuse fundamental elements of dramatic narrative storytelling (including character development, action, stakes, tension, and conflict) into a non-fiction film treatment.
Construct a cinematic idea for a non-fiction film that will be carried from concept to shooting script.

FILM 519 Post Production Workflow: 3 Credits (3 Other)

COREQUISITE: FILM 510. (F) This course will examine post-production workflows and approaches for contemporary documentary film editing

View Course Outcomes:

Demonstrate media organization strategies appropriate to long-form documentary editing
Create a compelling visual/aural short documentary using silent archival footage
Demonstrate competence with industry-standard video editing tools
Creatively solve a storytelling problem
Implement industry-standard processes and techniques to complete a final project that explores a specific topic.

FILM 523 Second Year Film Prep: 2 Credits (2 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Second year standing. (F) This course will prepare second year SNHF MFA students to create their required second year film

FILM 525 Second Year Film Prod: 3 Credits (3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Second year standing. (Sp) The objective of this course is to provide faculty support and supervision of second year MFA film projects

FILM 526 Alternative Nonfiction: 3 Credits (3 Other)

(F) Graduate students will study a range of contemporary documentary and experimental documentary filmmakers. Each student will then develop and produce their own original short documentary works utilizing some aspect(s) of the contemporary works studied.

FILM 528 Non-Fiction Film Performance: 3 Credits (3 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: 2nd year grad student. (Sp) A graduate level course designed for non-fiction filmmakers to explore the performance aspects of documentary filmmaking. The course explores close observation of human behavior through acting and improvisation exercises as tools to broaden students’ capacity for human connection

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Identify core principles in improvisational acting and composition, and translate them for professional use into the arena of natural history and science filmmaking; specifically in the areas of interview process, collaborative leadership, and production cultivation.\\n\\n\\n\\n
Evaluate cultural, behavioral, ethical, and even physical assumptions about human behavior and motivation.
Assess an array of narrative techniques, pattern construction processes, and collaborative storytelling, and synthesize that assessment into a working theory of human interaction.
Deploy that working theory to construct models of human behavior in the form of live storytelling.

FILM 560 Advanced Post Production: Info Design: 3 Credits (3 Other)

(Sp) This course will teach advanced post-production and information design skills to Graduate MFA students.

View Course Outcomes:

Identify and discuss six characteristics of information design as articulated by Edward Tufte.
Demonstrate basic proficiency with Adobe After Effects.
Creatively apply the concepts of information design to the successful production of a motion graphic animation suitable for use in a professional film/video work.

FILM 575 Special Professional Project and Paper: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

(F) This is an entry-level graduate SNHF MFA seminar in sound production and post-production. We will focus primarily on understanding the art and science of listening, the basics of what sound is and how to record sound, the relationship between sound and image, and finally, the fundamentals of how to edit, design, and mix audio in Premiere Pro and Pro Tools.
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

View Course Outcomes:

Define and explain basic concepts and physics of sound. \\n\\n
Analyze the power of sound as an expressive art by reading sound and film theory, listening to sound compositions, and watching films.
Apply the technical skills needed to operate different kinds of microphones and recorders for different scenarios.\\n
Create your own sound design and mix with Premiere Pro
Develop documentary films that advance Audio skills and that privilege sound as an expressive art.

FILM 590 Master's Thesis: 1-15 Credits (1-15 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Master's candidate standing following successful passing of the Comprehensive Examination. () On demand. This course involves supervised advanced work on a student’s required MFA thesis film and written paper
Repeatable up to 15 credits.

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Students will demonstrate an advanced level of filmmaking ability to merit the successful defense of the thesis film.
Students will demonstrate the advanced critical and analytical ability to merit the successful defense of the thesis paper.
Students will demonstrate the combined artistic and critical ability to become successful professionals in the field of science and natural history filmmaking.

FILM 591 Special Topics: 1-3 Credits (1-3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. On demand. Courses not required in a curriculum for which there is a particular one-time need, or given on a trial basis to determine acceptability and demand before requesting a regular course number
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

FILM 592 Independent Study: 1-3 Credits (1-3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate standing, consent of instructor, approval of department head and Dean of Graduate Studies. () On demand. Directed research and study on an individual basis
Repeatable up to 3 credits.

FILM 598 Professional Internship: 1-6 Credits (1-6 Other)

PREREQUISITE: FILM 510 and FILM 515. () On demand. This course allows the student to spend a semester working in a professional environment under the guidance of a mentor
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

View Course Outcomes:

This course allows the student to spend a semester working in a professional environment under the guidance of a mentor.