Filmmaking

Program Overview

The Narrative Film-making Program at the Prague Film School provides comprehensive training in all aspects of filmmaking, preparing students for professional careers in the industry. Through a rigorous curriculum combining theoretical and practical learning, students develop technical skills and theoretical knowledge in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and editing. The program's emphasis on practical work, with students completing over 400 short films during their studies, ensures graduates are equipped to succeed in the competitive film industry.

Program Outline

Narrative Film-making Program:

Degree Overview:

The Narrative Film-making Program at the Prague Film School trains students in all aspects of film production, preparing them for professional careers in the industry. This comprehensive program combines theoretical and practical learning, with students completing over 400 short films during their studies. The program's philosophy emphasizes rigorous training, with up to 10 hours of classes daily and extensive practical work during weekends. This approach ensures graduates are equipped with the technical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive film industry.

Outline:

Content:

The program is divided into four semesters, with two semesters comprising the Year Program and additional two semesters for students pursuing specialization in their chosen area.

Year Program:

• Semester 1: Students learn the fundamentals of filmmaking through foundation courses in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and elective courses.
They also participate in practical exercises and produce at least four short films of their own while working on at least 16 other productions.
• Semester 2: Students choose a specialization in one of the core disciplines (screenwriting, directing, cinematography, or editing) and dive deeper into advanced courses and practical projects.
They create a diploma film that reflects their specialization and showcases their skills.

Specialization Programs:

• Screenwriting: Students hone their screenwriting skills through advanced courses, script analysis, and practical exercises.
They work on their diploma film script and gain insights into the film industry through classes on film business and analysis.
• Directing: Students explore advanced directing techniques, work with actors, develop their vision, and participate in masterclasses with renowned filmmakers.
They create their own short films or direct a segment of a longer project for their diploma film.
• Cinematography: Students master advanced cinematography techniques, explore different lighting setups, and collaborate on short films and commercial projects.
They work on their diploma film, showcasing their cinematic skills and vision.
• Editing: Students learn advanced editing techniques, explore post-production workflows, and experiment with different styles of editing.
They edit their diploma film and gain valuable experience in post-production processes.

Schedule:

• Year Program: Semester 1 (September - January), Semester 2 (February - June)
• Specialization Programs: Semester 3 (September - January), Semester 4 (February - June)

Modules:

Year Program:

• Foundation Courses: Screenwriting, Directing, Cinematography, Editing
• Elective Courses: Acting, Art Direction, Advanced Cameras, Aspects of Film Language, Central and Eastern European Cinema, Czech Language, Directing Actors, Directing the Camera, Documentary Theory and History, Experimental Film, Film Industry, Film Comedy, Film Analysis, Lighting, Master Shot, Photography for Cinematography, Post-production effects, Post-production workflow, Screenwriting Feature Film, Sound
• Production Workshops: Operation of filmmaking equipment, Crew production protocol, Sound production, Grip equipment

Specialization Programs:

• Screenwriting: Screenwriting Feature, Screenwriting Diploma Films, Screenwriting Across Genres, Screenwriting Adaptations, Film Industry Business, Film Analysis, Diploma Film, Script
• Directing: Directing Workshop, Directing Music Videos and Commercials, Directing Actors, Documentary and Fiction Film Practicum, Screenwriting Diploma Films, Editing Workshop, Diploma Film, Directing
• Cinematography:
• Editing:

Assessment:

The program uses a combination of assessments to evaluate students' progress and ensure their overall development. These assessments include:

• Practical work: Short films, exercises, projects, and other practical work are evaluated based on technical proficiency, creativity, and storytelling ability.
• Examinations: Written and oral examinations test students' knowledge of film history, theory, and technical aspects of filmmaking.
• Peer review: Students provide feedback and assessments to each other's work, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Diploma film: The final project for each specialization serves as a comprehensive assessment of the student's skills and abilities.

Teaching:

The program employs a highly qualified faculty, composed of renowned filmmakers, experienced practitioners, and passionate educators. The program also incorporates guest lectures, masterclasses, and workshops with industry professionals, allowing students to learn from and network with leading figures in the film industry.

Careers:

The Narrative Film-making Program prepares graduates for various careers in the film industry, including:

• Scriptwriter
• Director
• Cinematographer
• Editor
• Producer
• Assistant Director
• Production Manager
• Camera Operator
• Gaffer
• Sound Engineer
• Film Critic
Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to work on feature films, documentaries, commercials, television shows, and other film and video projects. The program's industry connections and alumni network provide graduates with valuable opportunities and support as they launch their careers in the film industry.

Other:

• The program provides state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, ensuring students have access to the resources they need to excel in their studies.
• The program fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate and flourish.
• The program also offers opportunities for international exchange and study abroad programs, providing students with a global perspective on filmmaking.