You'll develop the vital skills of both directing and collaboration, as you work with students in other specialisms to make several films and participate in practical projects. You'll also learn about commissioning, and the legal and financial side of getting a film made.
Throughout the course, you'll also access vital networking opportunities, meeting Industry professionals and attending at least one film festival. From the start to the end of the documentary filmmaking process, you'll leave fully prepared to launch yourself, and your films, into the Industry.
The first year consists of four practical exercises, increasing in length and complexity. These focus on the techniques and approach of a specific documentary genre: observation, sound and music, character–led narrative and an enquiry. You’ll collaborate with editors, sound recordists, sound designers and composers, and are encouraged to build relationships with cinematographers and producers. You are also expected to know how to work alone.
The second year includes three projects: a graduation film in which you’ll synthesise what you have discovered in the first year, and use it to challenge conventional approaches to documentary; an MFA dissertation in which you reflect on a documentary topic that has intrigued you during the course; and the opportunity to develop a project to take out to the Industry.
The second year also consists of a visit to a film festival, meetings with broadcasters and contact with Industry professionals alongside seminars on commissioning, legal requirements, financing and distribution. The specialist nature of our courses mean that you’ll gain the relevant skills and experience you need to go straight into the industry.
Throughout the course, you will have access to Industry standard production facilities and be trained to use digital 4K cameras, a range of sound recording equipment and editing software.