An examination of the art, craft, and business of screenwriting from theoretical and practical perspectives. Topics include screenplay format and structure, story, plot and character development, dialog and scene description, visual storytelling, pace and rhythm, analysis of professional and student scripts and films.

This class provides an overview of film and television production principles and processes from script to screen and also prepares students for later hands-on production courses. We will explore both the art and craft of film and digital motion picture production, including the roles and functions of the major creative and technical personnel in the scripting, pre-production, production, and post-production phases. Technical aspects such as digital vs.

Independent study in special subjects.

Independent study in special subjects.

Independent study in special subjects.

Students will learn basic concepts and techniques of studio television production, with a focus on directing program segments in a full-scale studio facility on the UMASS campus. The course focuses on the production of two series, a mini-series in the concept of digital consumption, and a collective effort on a long show format. Each student will create and direct one episode of the digital series, as well as the long show. Some post-production editing and field camera work will be involved.

Independent study in special subjects.

Independent study in special subjects.

This course is an introduction to the process of media production, with a special focus on the institutional forces (i.e. market structures, industry practices, law and regulation, citizen activism, and audience dynamics) that shape the content of electronic media. We will consider a variety of historical, technological, economic, cultural, legal, political, and ethical factors that influence the production, distribution, and consumption of media texts in digital environments. We will take a case study approach, using examples of the U.S.

This is a stand-alone independent study designed by the student and faculty sponsor that involves frequent interaction between instructor and student. Qualitative and quantitative enrichment must be evident on the proposed contract before consent is given to undertake the study.