Masterclass Diary

11 June 2007

Pre-production Planning Workshop

FREE (20 spaces available - book now!)
14.00 - 16.00
IFSW, University of Wales, Newport

Next to the script, pre-production is the backbone of any successful film. 

This is the stage when mistakes can be made without blowing the budget.  Independent filmmakers must rely on this stage of production, as their budgets are usually very tight.  This workshop will provide tips on how to plan productions that will result in efficient and cost effective films. 

Why does everyone on the crew need to breakdown the script? 
How do you find good actors who will work for free?  
Where can you get tape and film stock at a discount? 
How do you create an efficient shooting schedule? 
These are all points that can help make a small budget appear much larger when it reaches the screen.

The KISS principle, the production triangle, and why the word assumption can destroy a good film are all secrets to good filmmaking.  Learn how to apply some simple wisdom to the process of pre-production planning. 

Workshop given by Sherry Lawr, Sheridan Institute, Canada
Sherry Lawr has worked as a producer in the Canadian television industry for more than 20 years. 
Specializing in news and current affairs programming,  Sherry spent 12 years with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation working in Toronto as an Associate Director, Line Producer and Coordinating Producer on a number of award winning programs including The Journal, The 5th Estate and Marketplace.  In 1994 Sherry left CBC to help launch Studio 2 at TVOntario.  As Coordinating Producer she was responsible for all production aspects of the show.  In 1997 she launched her own lifestyle program with host Maureen Taylor, and in 1998 became the Head of Production for TVOntario.  For the past 8 years she has been a Professor and Program Coordinator of the Media Arts program at Sheridan College in Oakville.  Sherry continues to work in the industry on a freelance basis and last year line produced CTV’s The Next Great Prime Minister.

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