“I’m able to learn a lot easier than I used to learn in community college and now I finally like what I’m doing. I have been more motivated to do stuff and now I can’t wait to go further and write my script.”
Created by Ron Osborn (creative force behind Night Court, Mork & Mindy, Moonlighting, The West Wing and more), the Ultimate Screenwriting Course not only contains all the essentials for turning your idea into a screenplay, but also provides numerous insights into creating a script that sells. Available as a self-guided course or mentor assisted course.
“I’m able to learn a lot easier than I used to learn in community college and now I finally like what I’m doing. I have been more motivated to do stuff and now I can’t wait to go further and write my script.”
Anthony DeFrancisco
“About a month ago, I finished the first draft of my screenplay, and am now about half way finished with my second draft. There were a lot of lessons learned in the past month, including: make sure actions sequences are relevant to the characters’ growth, be willing to take a break from your work and come back to it later, read many screenplays, and assume the role as the student (learn something new and question your work) whenever you reach a landmark.”
Anya Corazon
“Lighting to match skin tone and contrast was a real breakthrough for me.”
Avery L.
“Choices define characters and have the greatest impact on the progression of a character driven story. But, it’s not just the big choices, like setting off on a quest, or saving the princess, or sacrificing yourself. In fact, the smallest choices, the choices that aren’t so obvious can play just as important a role. These tiny choices are what separate strong characters from weak ones, and great actors from not so great actors. But, above all else, the small choices are the answer to the problems of too many characters and needing more character development.”
Maria Rambeau
“I am more motivated than ever before because I can already see an enormous improvement in my writing skills, understanding of film and screenplays, and my understanding of the movie business because my mentor and I have a boxer / trainer relationship. Now that might not work with others but for me as the extern I couldn’t be happier.”
Avery Parker
“The program didn’t just teach me how to write — it taught me how to think like a screenwriter.”
Morgan K.
“The last lesson was extremely interesting from the point of view that it dealt with coping with crew members and cast, their unique personalities, and how to maximize performance and work output. It was a real eye-opener in the sense that it got you to explore your own personality and find a common-ground upon which to work efficiently and minimize conflict. It brought home the reality that as a filmmaker you may have to provide leadership to a large number of people. The assignment highlighted the traits required to pull this off successfully.”
Kathleen Adam
“John Raffo has read and likes my screenplay, even saying that he was surprised and didn’t know what to expect out of my script. But he really likes the elements of the story and how colorful my dialogue is. Just need to iron out some story elements and shorten it a tad so it can be its best. I’m very happy and satisfied with the critique.”
Cassie Lang
“My screenwriting mentor totally saved the day. He gave me one idea that totally captured my imagination. I’ve been working on the idea and plotting it out before I put it in my script. I have pretty much written the idea all down on my legal pad. I want to have it charted out first before I actually start “writing” it. I’m really grateful for my mentor! He really came through for me.”
Debra Maya
In ten weeks you will make five films, with your final film presented to a panel of film industry judges who will consider your film for various awards in different categories and an opportunity to turn the best short projects into feature film. The best films have an opportunity for global distribution with WeShort Film Distribution. You will also take the “Art of the Film Business” course simultaneously with the creative development and cinematic exercises in this course.
“The learning of film and its intricacies from others and reading about it, and how much of an impact it has on me as an individual, is what gives me incentive to keep pushing forward. I’m not trying to outdo others who are learning or in the same field as I am, I’m trying to outdo myself. As Robert Rodriguez once said, ‘Work hard, and be scary.’”
Alyssa Seth
“I’ve had NUMEROUS friends tell me and even my parents the change they’ve recognized in me. I’m happier they say, and I would have to agree with them. It’s because I feel like for the first time in a long time that I’m headed in the right direction with my life.”
Patricia Joseph
“I got to see how the same footage could be manipulated to tell the same story involving two people in many different ways. I was able to see how each person’s sound effects and/or film choice enhanced the sequence and how the same story could be told, and told well, from many different perspectives. I also learned that sometimes, what is unseen can be as effective or more effective than what is actually shown on screen.”
Michael Owen
“On Tuesday, I started shooting my video, which couldn’t have gone better. The weather was perfect. The location was absolutely beautiful. My actress was stunning! And the shots were exactly what I wanted. Then, later that day, I met a group of young filmmakers who were meeting with my mentor to pitch their idea for a sci-fi web series. I instantly connected with them as well! It was such great communication flow and overall great vibes. I loved everything about their idea and they said they would love to have me as part of their team! So that was one of the best days of my life, and it just keeps getting better.”
Kate Bishop
The Ultimate Film Business Course is included in the Ultimate Filmmaking Course and is an optional module available with all other courses. Students are taught how to create film ideas that will sell, how to pitch their ideas, setup crowd funding campaigns, enter festivals, get film distribution and much more.
“Understanding festival strategy changed how I finish and launch a project.”
Casey O.
“Learning how to forecast ROI helped me win over my first investor.”
Morgan Y.
“This past week I was able to attend the American Film market. It was an experience to see all of these movies brought together in one place to be bought and sold. I found it very interesting to see how people market their movies to the buyers at the event; to see some of the things that the sellers thought that the buyers would be interested in. It was also interesting to see the human side of the American Film Market. Normally when thinking of buying and selling product the images of cold calculated business types comes to mind. The market was not like this. There were many times when I saw two old friends bump into each other and start catching up, with the conversation never broaching the topic of business. It was a refreshing feeling thinking that even at a place where movies are bought and sold to the world people are still being friendly.”
Max Helen
At Film Connection, we’ll put you with an industry professional where you’ll learn first hand what it takes to build a career in the film business. Our programs run the gamut of filmmaking, from writing screenplays that capture the imagination while maintaining the structure, to getting a film sold and made, to making final edits before it hits the big screen.
From script to silver screen, the Ultimate Film Production Course covers every aspect of the filmmaking process in 21 lessons, supplemented with extensive hands-on time during actual shoots. Whether you want to be a screenwriter, producer, director, cinematographer or editor this course will teach you what you need to know with real world skills.
“Film Connection put me in a great position to work at a great studio that allowed me to network and learn the tools necessary to succeed in this business. Through my mentor I was able to work in many different departments (pre-production, casting, production, hair & make-up, post-production, and research) on many different shoots. Because of the work I did with my mentor I acquired the skills that enabled me to land jobs on shows such as The Voice (which I’ve been working with the last two years), The Newsroom, Suits, and 30 Rock. The latter of which I worked on its last two seasons as a casting assistant. I’ve also worked on several reality shows and most recently a film featuring Ben Stiller and Amanda Seyfried. I’ve maintained a relationship with my mentor and continue to work with him when able.”
Daniel Parker
“I’ll be getting a work schedule this week at the studio. They’ve done everything from Avatar to Jurassic park. Tomorrow I’m putting on the glove that Robert Downey Jr. wears in Iron Man. So stoked! I met some incredible people and I also made another great contact. It was honestly one of the most incredible days of my life!”
Adam Kevin
“I really have been enjoying my experience with this Film Connection program. I think it is definitely the one-on-one time I have with my mentor that helps out the most in my progression into the Film Industry. Not only this, but learning from someone who has done this type of work for a long time, alike my mentor, who is a true professional. I have had the pleasure of helping out on two short films and even a feature film which is REALLY exciting! This is definitely something I didn’t think I would be doing before I started this program. I have now also gained the confidence I need to make a feature film of my own. What really surprised me about the Film Connection was how far I have come within the program. Before the program, I thought that I could get in the industry with only my writing. However, now I know I have the skills to get a job in the industry, regardless the position. I had no idea how to light a scene and now I know that I can do it myself if needed to and my mentor is a great help in this process. Thankfully he is extremely patient and is, and will always be, there for me if I have, any questions, as he continues to currently do so. This is an experience that was worth every penny, and I will do it all over again in a heartbeat.”
Andrew MacLean
“One day, while at my day job, I received an email from Christine asking if I would be interested in going with her and one of her staff members to shoot a commercial in Galveston, TX. It’s on a Monday so she knew I would probably have work, but I’m glad she asked, because I was able to get the day off. Since I wasn’t able to make the film video filming, I DEFINITELY don’t want to miss another opportunity to be on a set!”
Austin Robert
“Learning to break down a script by department made planning feel real.”
Avery C.
“My mentor gave me his studio and equipment to shoot whatever I want while he’s out of town. I’m planning on shooting a couple of friends playing acoustic guitar and singing. It should be fun. Life tends to be more fun when fear is cut out of the picture. It’s an exciting adventure!”
William Kyle
“My first week in the program and I’m already working on a big short-film/film video for one of the biggest hip-hop artists around. Thankfully everyone especially my mentor has been very helpful and answering any questions I have. It’s a lot of work and long hours but so far I haven’t minded it. The one downside I have to say about my first week is getting back in the routine of waking up early and sitting in traffic but other than those factors I’ve really been enjoying myself.”
Jack Isabella
“Jay, from Student Services, called me Friday night about a job. It’s a documentary about a Jazz player. Very interested, so I called the man who wants to make it and seems like a nice man and I’m very much going to do it. First job, yay!”
Hunter Tammy
“Still coming down from last Thursday’s video shoot! It was amazing to finally get my hands dirty and actually be in a production. It was scary and exciting and all kinds of feelings. Got to help set up with my mentor and scope out where I wouldn’t get in the way of the other cameras and the band. And when the time came to record… WOW! I was in the moment and loving every minute of it. I’m looking forward to doing more of that for the rest of forever and a day, if I’m so lucky”
Brandon Hanson
“These past few weeks I have had the opportunity to work on a film set. It has been a very interesting experience. I have found it fascinating to see how each department has their own niche on set. And how the different departments coordinate through the AD and others to make the best possible picture arrive on screen. The other thing that I find really interesting is to see how an idea will start from the script, be molded by the director, and then used by the director of photography. The director of photography will use the idea to get an idea of the atmosphere he needs to build for the scene at hand. He will then give the idea to the gaffer, who then gives it to the electricians and grips. They then build the atmosphere with lights and other equipment. While they are doing that hair and makeup are getting the actors ready for the light and the art department makes sure that everything is ready for the set. There are all of these moving parts coordinating to make a set work. I think that it is awesome and it has been a lot of fun.”
Tyler Sharon
“I made more progress in two months here than in two years elsewhere.”
Quinn L.
Those interested in Film Directing have the option of making it the focus of their learning while taking the Film Production Course. The other aspects of filmmaking (scriptwriting, producing, lighting, editing, cinematography) are still included in the Film Production Course so the student can see how each discipline is inter-related with being a complete Film Director.
“My directing voice clicked when I stopped copying directors I admire.”
Avery K.
“The actors trusted me because I showed up prepared — and that changed everything.”
Cameron H.
The Film Connection celebrates 40 years of educating and mentoring future generations of music industry players. The secret to our success? Learning from vast network of movie industry connections we’ve built over those 40 years. Because while who you know matters, it’s who knows you that really moves the needle.
Those interested in Film Editing have the option of making it the focus of their learning while taking the Film Production Course. The other aspects of filmmaking (scriptwriting, producing, lighting, editing, cinematography) are still included in the Film Production Course so the student can see how each discipline is inter-related with being a complete Film Editor.
“I was hired by Victory Studios and I am so excited. This studio is able to provide me with all the means to be a successful student coming from this school. I am going to be taught a lot to do with editing. This is the department I feel I can love and have so much room for improvement. Can’t wait to learn 3D animation and keep on learning filming. Thanks my mentor for going out of your way to accommodate me for bettering my education.”
Charles William
“At this point I am starting to get confident in my ability to edit. While the work I do on my own is still nowhere near a professional editors is, I am at least feeling competent in making changes to video clips pretty quickly and efficiently, in both FCP 7 and Premier Pro.”
Christopher Tina
“I now edit with story in mind — not just what looks cool.”
Reese N.
“For this past week I’ve learned how to color a video, meaning add color, and brightness effects to it. I colored the wedding video my mentor has me working on, so if it looks O.K. I should be done, or very close to done with it! It’s amazing to me how different, and brighter, or dimmer, you can make a video look, just by editing it. I didn’t know you could make coloring effects, before I learned this. I’m going to meet her today, and I’ll see what she thinks about what I’ve colored.”
William Diana
“On Tuesday, August 11th I met with my mentor Joe on a beautiful sunny day in Minnesota. We have both been crazy busy, me with my homework and him on some errands but we made the time to get together in spite of our schedules. That day we talked about my chapter 1 and 2 quizzes and also I had the chance to go to his studio to see where he does the editing for his projects. He uses the Apple program Final Cut and I find it similar to the Sony editing software I recently purchased. So we spent the majority of the time looking at and exploring the features of his editing software. It was eye opening to what you can do with the software. There are so many functions and even though he showed me a few of them such as putting footage on a timeline and then editing it by adding transition here and there and also looping the sound to match the footage made my mind swim. He made it look easy since he has been doing that for quite some time and I look forward to when I too can make it look easy…might take awhile but I will get there:). Joe also gave me a small project to work on with my new editing software – the footage we filmed at the White Bear Lake YMCA. He made a backup copy of some of the footage and tasked me with making a movie with the footage he gave me. It is quite the challenge but I feel I am up to the task. Like a rookie quarterback starting in place of an injured veteran player I must make my editing debut.Very excited to see what I can come up with! Stay tuned for more later…”
Matthew James
“To me, having to cut and piece together film videos shot from that many angles was like putting a puzzle together, except I had to create the idea of what the final puzzle was going to look like instead of having one already done to go off of. The two videos that I ended up finishing were so good the band posted them on all of their social media sites. I absolutely loved this project and I feel like I learned so much from them.”
Ethan Emily
“This week my mentor and I went around Charlotte, North Carolina, getting footage that can be used for many projects we are working on at the production studio. Things like road signs, welcome signs, crowd shots, and the airport. It was great; I work directly with the productions, getting to operate the camera for most of the day. This actual shoot was supposed to be a green screen shoot for EZWay Auto Sales. However, it has been rescheduled for this Wednesday. Since no one else will be using the facility until then, we got to leave the green screen up. However, the lights were rented so we had to strike them and return them to the rental place. Afterwards all of this was prepared, my mentor and I sat down to have our one-on-one training for Lesson 8 assigned to me by the Film Connection program. Also, I really wanted to let the program know that I saw my 15-second edit of the EZ Way commercial on the Air! It was our local CBS affiliate showing it during The Mentalist. It is just so cool to see something I have done actually on Television!”
Shane Killian
“Being pushed to explain every cut made me intentional with my transitions.”
Peyton W.
The Cinematography Course is a hands-on course that takes a deep dive into all aspects of the cinematographic process: from lighting to shot blocking to camera angle to focal length, frame rate, depth of field and more.
“I have to admit I was very nervous and excited to be in a production studio and learn from one of the best film directors in the industry. My first lesson was on the camera, which was very interesting and a little complicated. My mentor really broke it down to me little by little. I was able to work with the camera myself using both the techniques from the book and a few of my mentor’s techniques. I can honestly say I left our session understanding how to not only turn my camera on, but actually shoot footage!”
Aaron Kyle
“My mentor has been taking me through the ropes of cinematography, from the location scouting, camera staging, framing and lighting. Also have had the opportunity to see the DIT and the editor work together to communicate what is required for post production work. It’s been quite a learning process.”
Alexander Sarah
My skill level at the start of this program in August was a beginner, a novice at best. I was brand new to a film set. Now, I’m directing my own videos and making promising relationships with clients as a filmmaker.
Aaron Weitlauf – Nashville, TN
“I went and observed my mentor as he shot a film video for a collaboration of about seven artists. I stood uneasy at first and felt out of my element as I watched my mentor smoothly go through his self-taught shot list. Then we went on break as we were waiting for the last two artists to show. I had some shot ideas for an earlier artist who had a verse that inspired me to brainstorm. I asked my mentor if I could dabble with some ideas. He obliged as I took over the camera and grabbed the artist from before. I suddenly abandoned all my inhibitions and sunk into a comfortable flow. The artist appreciated my view on detail and my spontaneity. No one really talked to me much that day except for this particular artist. He asked my name and shook my hand, telling me ‘thanks for taking the extra time with me man’. It was though I was literally standing outside of a box that I didn’t know the way in to. Then I grabbed a camera and was invited into this ‘world’. THIS is why I want nothing but to make movies. It’s my way in! It gives me my voice.”
Brandon Mary
“I actually got the job and I am now working as a Studio Camera Operator for News Channel 5 in West Palm Beach. I am so happy and I just wanted to thank Film Connection for all that they have provided so I can get the skills and experience I needed to help me get this position.”
Seth Justin
“I’ve been working with my mentor to improve my directorial skills; particularly my cinematography and reasoning behind it. I realized early on that I get so into working with the camera, that I forget to think things through all the way, and end up with poorly executed shots that look truly, embarrassingly amateur, by my own admission. I’ve started trying to take his advice to heart: remembering to set up the camera properly, always using the tripod and never holding the camera or zooming in or out unless necessary; making notes about what I want in each shot and why, and taking those notes with me into the field to reference to keep myself organized and on track.”
Jacob Evan
“I learned plenty the first week by taking direction from the studio director and working as a camera operator. By the end of the first week I had experience as a camera operator on six shows of which three of them were live. They may not have been the most exciting shows you can imagine but it might as well have been a blockbuster film! I couldn’t stop learning.”
Owen Lillis
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