AFTRS Open

This is an online, ten-week course that will introduce participants to the fundamentals of creating viable and original TV drama and comedy series concepts. Course tutor is Vicki Madden, a highly experienced TV writer whose credits include story producer and writer on The Bill as well Australian series Water Rats, Stingers, Halifax fp, Blood Brothers and McLeod’s Daughters. The course comprises ten modules with a wide variety of learning activities in a lively online chat forum and ... [More]

Errol Morris: Mr. President, I have three questions to you. Number one: did you know the nuclear warheads were there? Number two: if you did, would you have recommended to Khrushchev in the face of an U.S. attack that he use them? Number three: if he had used them, what would have happened to Cuba? - THE FOG OF WAR (Errol Morris, 2003) Michael Moore: Well, here’s my first question: You think it’s a little dangerous, handing out guns in a bank? - BOWLING FOR COLUMBINE (Michael Moore,... [More]

This course will introduce emerging writers and potential script editors to the experience of working in the fast-paced and challenging environment of series television. Writing and working in television differs substantially from film on many levels: deadlines are tight and networks are demanding! Over two days participants will be taken through the many facets and requirements of writing in a medium that requires team work, strict deadlines and an understanding of the many product... [More]

In this one-day Masterclass, Academy award nominee and 6 time AFI Award winning editor Jill Bilcock will share insights into the craft and role of editing for feature films. Jill Bilcock’s body of work includes an Oscar nomination and AFI award for Moulin Rouge and AFI awards for Red Dog, Japanese Story, Muriel’s Wedding and Strictly Ballroom and further work on Road to Perdition, Elizabeth and more. She’s worked with an influenced industry leaders – among them Sam Mendes, Baz Luhrm... [More]

A film approved and made under a co-production arrangement is treated as a ‘national film’ of each of the participating countries, and is accorded all the benefits each country offers. Since the inception of the official co-production program in Australia in 1986, treaties have been signed with 11 countries. The concept of co-productions may seem daunting at first, however in a small film & TV market like Australia’s they can be the final push to bring projects to fruition. Golden G... [More]

“Live to air”, “Live sport”, Game and Panel Shows and News and Current Affairs all have one thing in Common – The Director’s Assistant (or “DA"). This intensive two-day course is a practical, hands on introduction to the role and responsibilities of the Television Directors Assistant. It’s an excellent first step into the multi camera control room, and you will be taught in our state-of-the-art HD Control room at AFTRS. The course will cover all responsibilities of the Director’s As... [More]

The AFTRS Open Regional Screenwriter’s Weekend will give you the essential tools and techniques for writing your own story for the screen. This intensive and ‘hands-on’ workshop will explore the many different types of story and the importance of structure, how to build scenes and create compelling characters through your writing. Using a range of practical exercises, discussion and selected movie clips, we will lead you through the stages of script development, exploring plot point... [More]

The low budget feature film – it can be done. Tait Brady’s two day intensive course for emerging feature film producers, writers, directors and line producers will show you all the insider tips and skills to make your low budget feature a success. Both practical and conceptual, this workshop aims to lead filmmakers through the minefield of low budget production possibilities and pitfalls. Using case studies from a range of recent productions – ultra low budget (under A$500,000) and ... [More]

A completed short film script in five days! Students will learn from working Industry professionals and plenty of inspiring guest speakers to take their stories from initial idea through treatment and draft stage, to a finished, polished script ready to be pitched on the final day. Story structure, theme, character, roadblocks, arcs, tension, conflict and resolution will be explored as they are used in filmmaking through fast paced lectures and workshops. With five days and a maximu... [More]

The script is ready – are you? In this five day filmmaking intensive, students will get busy in the AFTRS state-of-the-art studio to take a Winter School Week One winning script to screen. Experienced industry filmmakers will guide students with lectures and fast paced practical exercises to conquer the major areas of Directing, Cinematography, and Post Production. You’ll learn how to analyse, break down, and rehearse a short script, to plan a shoot and work within a budget, work wi... [More]