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Directing Major

The Directing Major within the BA in Film & Cinematic Studies is designed to develop your artistic vision and equip you with the essential skills to lead creative projects from script to screen. As a director, you will be responsible for transforming written stories into visual masterpieces, guiding the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking, and bringing a compelling narrative to life. This major focuses on both the artistic and technical aspects of directing, empowering students to become visionary leaders in the film industry.

Why Choose the Directing Major?

1. Master the Art of Storytelling
Learn the fundamentals of visual storytelling, where you’ll transform scripts into compelling cinematic narratives. From script analysis to shot composition, you will gain a deep understanding of how to convey emotion, theme, and character development through film.

2. Hands-On Directing Experience
Directing is learned by doing, and this major offers extensive practical experience. You’ll direct short films, scenes, and student productions, working with actors, cinematographers, and production teams to realise your creative vision. Gain confidence as you hone your directing style and bring your unique storytelling voice to the screen.

3. Collaboration and Leadership
A director is the leader of a film set, responsible for guiding a team of creative professionals to achieve a unified vision. You’ll develop skills in communicating your vision to actors, cinematographers, sound designers, and editors, fostering a collaborative environment that brings out the best in your team.

4. Develop Your Artistic Voice
Explore different genres, film movements, and directing techniques, and learn how to create films that reflect your personal style. Through case studies, masterclasses, and critical analysis, you will gain insight into how legendary directors have influenced the art of cinema—and how you can, too.

5. Technical Proficiency
Alongside the artistic aspects of directing, you’ll gain hands-on training in technical filmmaking skills, including camera work, lighting, and blocking. Learn how to work closely with your cinematography team to ensure every shot aligns with your vision, from framing and composition to lighting and movement.

Core Modules in Directing Major

The Directing Major offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, covering all the essential aspects of filmmaking from a director's perspective.

  • Introduction to Directing: Understand the fundamentals of directing, including the director's role in the filmmaking process, visual storytelling, and working with actors. Learn how to interpret scripts, create shot lists, and communicate your vision to a team.
  • Script Analysis and Development: Learn how to break down scripts, analyze character arcs, and develop themes to ensure that the core message of the story is communicated visually. Gain the skills to adapt scripts and shape them according to your creative interpretation.
  • Storytelling and Directing: Explore the principles of storytelling, character development, and plot structure from a director’s perspective. This module emphasizes how directors translate written scripts into emotionally impactful and visually engaging narratives.
  • Pre-Production Planning: Master the pre-production phase of filmmaking, including casting, location scouting, scheduling, and budgeting. Learn how to prepare for a shoot by organising all the creative and logistical elements in advance, ensuring a smooth production process.
  • Directing Actors: Develop your skills in working with actors to draw out authentic, powerful performances. Learn techniques for rehearsing, blocking, and giving direction that brings out the best in your cast.
  • Cinematography and Directing: Understand the technical side of directing, including camera techniques, shot composition, lighting, and camera movement. Learn how to collaborate with your cinematographer to achieve a cohesive visual style that complements the story.
  • Post-Production Directing: Explore the role of the director in post-production, working with editors, sound designers, and visual effects teams to bring your project to completion. Learn how to maintain your creative vision through the editing process and oversee the final cut.
  • Directing for Visual Effects: Study the integration of visual effects (VFX) into filmmaking, understanding how to work with VFX teams and direct sequences that require digital enhancements or CGI. Learn the skills necessary to plan, shoot, and execute visual effects-heavy scenes.

With the BA in Film & Cinematic Studies (Directing), you will be equipped to lead a wide variety of film projects, from short films to feature-length productions. This major provides you with the artistic, technical, and leadership skills to direct impactful films that resonate with audiences, paving the way for a successful career as a filmmaker.

Career Opportunities

  • Film Director

    Oversees the entire filmmaking process, guiding the artistic and technical aspects to bring a script to life on screen.

  • Television Director

    Directs individual episodes or series, managing the production and ensuring continuity while collaborating with writers and actors.

  • Assistant Director

    Manages the day-to-day operations on set, including scheduling, coordinating the cast and crew, and ensuring the director's vision is executed.

  • Music Video Director

    Creates visually compelling music videos by combining storytelling, choreography, and cinematography to match the song's narrative and tone.

  • Commercial Director

    Directs short-form advertisements, focusing on brand storytelling, visuals, and messaging to create impactful commercial content.

  • Creative Director

    Leads the overall creative vision for films, commercials, or other visual projects, ensuring alignment between artistic direction and the production's objectives.

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