Storytelling in Moving Image Production

The aim of the course is to introduce students to storytelling in films and moving images and the main principles of production for commercials, fiction, and documentary film. Through an integrated approach to theory and practice, students work individually and collectively to develop, produce, and reflect upon, the key processes employed throughout. Module 1: Elements of Storytelling, 7.5 ECTS cr This module provides an introduction to the role of storytelling in effective communication for commercials and fictional-film productions. Through an exploration of the key elements of storytelling, including narrative, character, and emotion, this module demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach for producing dynamic media-content. Module 2: Commercial and Short Film Production, 7.5 ECTS cr This module aims to develop basic knowledge of and skills in the key processes of successful commercial and fictional short-film productions. The different stages in film production are experienced through students taking on different roles, such as director, cinematographer, and producer. By adapting the artistic vision to a production framework, students learn to accommodate pragmatic concerns while sustaining the qualities of cinematic storytelling. Through a hands-on approach, students will navigate the challenges of going from original idea to fully completed project. Module 3: Theories of Documentary, 7.5 ECTS cr This module provides an introduction to the documentary and reportage genres of filmmaking. It will examine a range of perspectives on the conceptual foundations of this approach to presenting reality and actuality in moving-image productions. Questions of ethical responsibility, objectivity, and truth claims will be critically investigated and individual statements of intent developed in relation to production practice. Module 4: Production of Documentary, 7.5 ECTS cr This module aims to develop basic knowledge of and skills in the key processes of a variety of documentary productions. The different approaches in documentary film and reportage are explored through an individual or group project. Through a hands-on process, students will navigate the challenges of going from original idea to fully completed project. Instruction is in the form of lectures, individual and group tutorials, group assignments, workshops, and project evaluation.