In week one, we explore the world of film producers. You'll learn about the different types of producers and their roles, focusing on the Anglo-Saxon model (US and UK) and co-productions. Budgeting is a key theme, including various budget ranges and how they impact a film. The American concept of a "package" deal and how to measure a film's profitability will be explained. Then, it dives into the film production cycle, taking you from the initial concept to a finished film. You'll learn about the different stages of production, the contracts involved, potential risks, and the crew needed at each stage. The course concludes with students giving a 3-minute oral pitch for their film projects.

Week three bridges the gap between your script and making your film. You'll further develop your filmmaking skills by analyzing classmates' pitches through the lens of marketability and budget constraints. The essentials of creating a production schedule will be introduced, including script breakdowns, legal considerations, and critical assumptions about filming locations and timelines. Case studies will showcase how filming location (studio vs. on-location) and budget range affect scheduling decisions. Budgeting takes centre stage, with practical exercises using student projects as a reference. You'll learn about crew and cast rates, location costs, department budgets, and unexpected expenses. Software like MovieMagic for scheduling and budgeting will also be briefly covered.

Week five tackles how to get your film seen! After more student pitches, you'll delve into film distribution and sales. A key concept explored is pre-sales, where international distributors buy distribution rights before filming begins. This method is crucial for financing many US films. We'll also discuss the pros and cons of filming in English for broader marketability and the American approach to packaging a movie for sale. For European filmmakers, the role of sales agents in securing distribution deals will be explained. You'll learn how to estimate sales revenue and understand the "7 to 1 rule" for return on investment. The course will explore how film festivals can be used to showcase your work and attract sales. Case studies will analyze how different distribution strategies were used for the two films, highlighting the contrasting approaches in Italy and the UK.

This final session focuses on your career development as a freelance film producer. In the morning, you'll receive practical advice on navigating a freelance career path or finding traditional film jobs. You'll define your short-term, mid-term, and long-term career goals and learn how to leverage a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to build a successful strategy. The session will also cover developing a diverse production slate and exploring alternative revenue streams like television, documentaries, and production services. The legalities of working as a producer, including company structures, will be addressed. The afternoon features personalized one-on-one consultations. Your CV, online presence, and career goals will be reviewed, with case studies offered for guidance. You can pitch your film project and yourself and ask any remaining questions.

COMING SOON... 

Week two of the course equips you with the knowledge to turn your film idea into a marketable script and pitch.  Following peer project analysis, you'll delve into the development process, considering both creative and legal aspects.  Learn how to analyze market trends and write a script that's not only compelling but also has solid financial potential.  Budget limitations will be a key focus, with guidance on writing for different budget ranges.  The course covers the unique considerations of writing a first feature film, including collaboration with writers or writers/directors and choosing between writing in your language or English.  You'll gain practical screenwriting skills by exploring basic narrative structure, writing tips, and co-writing legalities.  Finally, pitching will be tackled, with case studies comparing how films are pitched in the UK and the US.  Based on the day's learnings, you'll be expected to refine your oral pitch using a PowerPoint presentation (3 minutes max).

Week four dives deep into film financing. After more student pitch analysis, you'll explore various funding sources in Europe, the UK, and the US, including their availability and financial implications. Learn the principles of financing and how to craft multiple financing plans (A, B, and C) to increase your chances of success. A key concept covered is pre-sales, a financing method prevalent in the US film industry. You'll then develop your financing plan based on your classmates' film projects. Cash flow management is another crucial aspect. Analyze case studies to understand how cash flow works in film production and how to handle potential financial strain during filming. Finally, create a cash flow plan for your film project, identifying areas where finances might be tight. The course concludes with a final oral pitch opportunity for students to showcase their projects (max 3 minutes each).

Week 6 is the accounting week, where you will learn the importance of having an accountant within your productions. You will also learn why setting up a production company is essential, when to start a company, and the process behind that. How does working internationally work, and can you save more money under a company than working without one? You will learn more about contracts and doing your taxes to keep in line with the law and what benefits creatives have within the industry to survive as producers and creatives. 

COMING SOON..