AFTRS Open

AFI winner Rowan Woods (The Boys, Little Fish) will lead this Masterclass for emerging Directors looking for an insider’s take on the current climate of Directing in Australia, and the significant differences between film & television projects. Participants will gain detailed insights into: • What is Australian TV drama in 2012? • The significant shift in the landscape of TV production in Australia and the emergence and success of the ‘HBO’ – or ‘Authorial TV’ model – with the stron... [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]

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]

This one day introduction to screenwriting will give you the essential tools to begin constructing your own story for the screen, or de-constructing other films! Led by accomplished actor, director and playwright Carl Caulfield, you will explore the many different types of story and the importance of structure, how to build scenes and create compelling characters through your writing. The session is very interactive and you’ll analyse and discuss techniques from a wide range of film... [More]

This one day introduction to screenwriting will give you the essential tools to begin constructing your own story for the screen, or de-constructing other films! Led by accomplished actor, director and playwright Carl Caulfield, you will explore the many different types of story and the importance of structure, how to build scenes and create compelling characters through your writing. The session is very interactive and you’ll analyse and discuss techniques from a wide range of film... [More]

This is a rare chance to hear Chris Taylor, one of Australia’s most successful and well known comedy writers & performers. Chris will be discussing the approach and processes that have carved out his unique print, stage, radio & television career, both as a solo performer and a member of The Chaser. From his early years at Sydney University through CNNN, The Chaser’s War On Everything, The Blow Parade and more, Chris will share with the class his comedy influences and the challenges... [More]

Presented by film writer, director and producer Darren Paul Fisher, Directing Actors is an intensive one day workshop that will show you how to get the best performances from your actors. The course is designed for emerging directors of shorts and feature films. The session will involve practical work with professional actors in a workshop situation. In a supervised and supportive environment, participants will learn and start to practice specific directing techniques to communicate... [More]

A rare opportunity to study Directing with multiple AFI, IF & AWGIE Award winner Cate Shortland. Visualising Story is a four day Director’s course on how to translate script to the screen. It covers the principles of screen language and grammar including: + how to break down a script for deeper meaning + shooting styles + shot sizes + composition + camera movement + editing It then builds to focus on how Directors incorporate these visual elements to create meaning and/or dramatic p... [More]

This very popular online course gives participants a ‘toolbox’ for creating an industry-standard, feature film script. The course comprises 10 modules with a variety of weekly assignments and collaborative activities. With a strong focus on concept, structure, story and character, this lively and engaging course makes the task of screenwriting that much easier for emerging writers by imparting the skills of preparation. This is the extensive ground work you do before you actually st... [More]

In this one-day Masterclass, feature film writer John Collee will share what working in Hollywood has taught him about: • Subject and theme – what should I write about? • Three act structure – is there really a formula? • What studios want – is drama dead? Do comics rule? • Original stories versus adaptations, live action vs animation. • Working methods for writers – how to get words on paper. • Pitching and selling – turning thoughts into money. If you dream of writing and selling ... [More]