Cherokee Film Experience will be launching classes this fall. These courses are built on one another, taking you from the “blank page” to “M&D” (marketing and distribution). The curriculum offers an enriched independent filmmaking education for those desiring to learn the key fundamentals of participating in the production of an independent film – or for those highly motivated and aspiring creatives, producing one. Courses will be taught in pairs, beginning with fundamentals of screenwriting and directing, followed by cinematography and lighting (Jan/Feb 2025), and wrapping with producing and postproduction (March/April 2025). Classes in production audio, production design, and others will be added as we grow.
Fall 2024 Course Schedule
Screenwriting and Directing will both start on Monday, Sept 23rd, and run each Monday for six weeks, ending on Oct. 28th.
Each six-week cycle, you may choose to take one course or both that are offered. The courses will be taught back-to-back starting at 6:15pm and ending by 8:30pm, with a quick 15-minute break between classes. Registration is open until the classes are filled.
AVAILABLE COURSES:
For fall 2024, CFE will offer the following courses:
SCREENWRITING
- Every idea starts with a script, a standardized, formatted screenplay that creates a blueprint for the production. Understanding the “how-to” of scriptwriting sets the writer apart from amateurish scripts. From proper formatting to polishing dialogue, this course will introduce you to the basics of screenwriting, complete with resources to give you an edge.
- Course requirements: Laptop with free screenwriting software (options available after registration)
- Course suggestions: The Hollywood Standard: The Complete and Authoritative Guide to Script Format and Style (available on Amazon and other book sites)
DIRECTING
- The director is the creative genius who takes a script and walks it through production, delivering a visual representation of a “paper” product. A great independent director understands the crafts – from acting to gripping – acknowledging the challenges and limitations of independent film production. This course will not only dive into the artistic responsibilities of directing, but also cover working with actors, an AD, and a cinematographer, as well as staying on schedule and under budget.
- Course requirements: You must have closed-toes shoes when working with ANY gear (so keep a pair in the car if you come wearing anything else)
- Course suggestions: Suggested reading will be offered once registered
Recommendations, Requirements, and Rules
- Courses are for ages 16 and up. Special exceptions could be granted on a case by case basis.
- For all courses, there are course reading recommendations; however, all film production equipment and gear needed for the class is provided on set.
- For Screenwriting and Postproduction, a laptop with a free download (recommended script software and edit software, respectively) will be required.
- It is recommended that you bring a digital device or notebook to take notes. Digital “handouts” will be provided along with hardcopy handouts, when appropriate for the learning experience.
- Dress is comfortable, but closed-toe shoes are REQUIRED when working with any gear (so keep a pair in the car if you love sporting sandals, flipflops, or slides).
- No video or audio recording will be allowed during instruction.
- Please be punctual. Arriving late could disrupt the learning opportunity for others.
UPCOMING COURSES:
In 2025, CFE will offer the following courses:
CINEMATOGRAPHY
A cinematographer (also called the DP, or director of photography) is the person behind the camera who captures the director’s creative vision. This course covers framing, camera movement, and basic lighting, as well as working with a director, chief lighting technician, and actors. Whether using a high-dollar cinema camera or an iPhone, the principles remain the same.
LIGHTING AND GRIP
Lighting (GNE*) is often one of the most underappreciated crafts in “amateur” independent film; however, it is one of the most important when capturing a cinematic image. Understanding how light shapes the subject, as seen through the lens, is what brings the picture to life. This course deep dives into industry GNE gear, but also offers affordable options when on a budget. (*GNE – Grip and Electric. “Grips” work under the Key Grip with non-electrical equipment that modifies lighting, while “Electricians” work under the Chief Lighting Technician/Gaffer to manage power distribution.)
POSTPRODUCTION
Postproduction comes after production, encompassing the work needed to complete the film and get it before an audience. This course covers the process of taking the film from the “martini shot” (the last thing filmed) to distribution. As part of editing the story, this course will introduce you to the basics of the “cut.” We will then investigate the various other roles in the process of postproduction, as well as dive into deliverables. Course requirements: Laptop with Davinci Resolve (or edit software of choice as long as you are comfortable with it).
PRODUCING
Producers are logistic operators of film production. In the industry, there are multiple producers with many titles, but in independent film a producer will often wear more hats and drive the business aspects of any production. This course explores the non-creative side of film production, including finding a script, fundraising, hiring keys, crew, and talent, securing locations, feeding the cast and crew, and walking the project through all five stages of film production.