Course description

Course overview

Taught through a combination of lectures, clips and practical exercises, this exciting online short course is designed to equip students with a better understanding of the short film form.

This practical course looks at the short film as an art form in its own right, as well as functioning as a ‘proof of concept’ for longer-form projects.

Through a series of weekly set tasks, students receive practical support in overcoming creative obstacles so that they can get their thoughts onto the page/screen.

Each class includes a lecture/presentation, and students will be expected to share ideas and work in progress. The course also allows for constructive group feedback on individual projects.

Who this course is for

The course is suitable for aspiring screenwriters, directors, and anyone interested in the short film form (including anyone making short-form content in the form of advertising or social media content).

Level of experience: no specific experience is required, although a passion for the short film form and a good written and spoken command of English would be ideal.

Key information

Topics covered

A potted history of the short film form and how it pre-dates the feature film
Idea development and how to avoid ‘overstuffing’ your short film
Theme and how ‘less is more’
The challenges of shooting your own short film and how to turn limitations to your advantage
Some of the UK (and beyond) based schemes designed for new short filmmakers

Learning outcomes

Better understand the short film form, including which ideas/types of stories tend to work on a much smaller ‘canvas’
Have an enhanced idea of the screenwriting process
Be better able to both give and receive constructive feedback
Have a better understanding of the industry and where short films fit in terms of festivals, career progression, etc.
Receive a digital badge and certificate of attendance

Materials

Notebook and pen
Laptop/tablet/mobile phone with camera

Please see our Guide to taking online short courses

Tutor

David Lemon

David Lemon's screenwriting credits include FAINTHEART (Film4) starring Eddie Marsan and CONTAINMENT, a pandemic thriller on Netflix.

He has also written for BBC1 continuing drama, childrens TV and for Radio 4, including the’The Man In Black' radio horror series starring Mark Gatiss. His work has also been developed by Hat Trick Productions and Clerkenwell Films.

David has lectured on screenwriting at The National Film and Television School, The Metfilm School, London Film Academy, University For The Creative Arts and The London Film School.
He also produced documentaries on such classic British films as THE 39 STEPS, THE RED SHOES and BRIEF ENCOUNTER.

He is represented by The Dench Arnold Agency.

Writing a Short Film Online Short Course

Course description

Key information

Tutor

David Lemon

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Short Courses