Direction (Scriptwriter) (Classroom and Synchronous E-Learning)
About This Course
Designed with scriptwriters in mind, this course in Direction provides an overview of the production activities that assist the Director to realise her/his vision of the script. The main focus of this course is on the production of narrative scripts in television drama series and telemovies. Similar fundamentals apply to the production of movies. The course also touches on the documentary-making process for those who are interested in factual storytelling and visually led script writing.
Scriptwriters will learn to appreciate the production process carried out by the various media professions and their respective departments to help the Director bring a script to life. It will show how a script impacts production and how production constraints can affect the script. With this knowledge, scriptwriters are better equipped to write scripts with a good understanding of production requirements without any compromise to the quality of the story itself.
What You'll Learn
- Break down the script to identify all production elements for each scene
- Document the day-wise shoot schedule, including the scenes and shots to be covered, type of shoot, and key characteristics for each shoot
- Facilitate the team to develop shoot sequences based on the breakdown of the script into a storyboard
- Direct secondary cast and extras on set to support the production
- Supervise the cast and crew on set to ensure that the production progresses according to the schedule and is aligned with the creative vision
- Explain the details of any shot such as camera angle, stance, motion in the scene, usage of props to the actors
- Foresee technical issues that may arise during production and post-production and recommend options to modify the script and resolve issues proactively
- Follow the plan closely to ensure continuity during production
Entry Requirements
- Minimum Age: 18
- Academic Requirement: Obtain Pass Grade in GCE O-Level subjects including at least B4 for English (or IELTS overall band score 6.5 and above or equivalent) and 2 other subjects or equivalent
- Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements may still apply and will be considered based on: At least 1 year working experience in any industry; and/or English language proficiency assessment (written and/or oral) by Singapore Media Academy to determine suitability for the course
- Applicants may be called for interview at the discretion of Singapore Media Academy