DIPLOMA IN CINEMA DIRECTION
(3-month Intensive Course)

This comprehensive 3-month Film Direction course is designed to provide aspiring filmmakers with the skills and knowledge required to become professional directors. While covering universal filmmaking principles, the course also highlights key aspects of the Kannada Film Industry (Sandalwood) to help students understand regional storytelling techniques, industry dynamics, and career opportunities.

Foundations of Direction

Build a strong foundation in film direction, covering the fundamentals of visual storytelling, shot composition, script analysis, and cinematic language.

Practical Short Film Assessments

Apply your knowledge in hands-on short film projects, receiving expert feedback and refining your directorial approach through practical experience.

The Art of Visual Storytelling

Master the principles of framing, camera movements, the setting of an event., and cinematography to craft compelling narratives that captivate audiences.

Concept Development & Pitching

Learn to generate original ideas, develop compelling scripts, and effectively pitch projects to industry professionals and production houses.

Advanced Directing Techniques

Develop essential skills in scene blocking, actor direction, and shot planning, preparing you for real-world filmmaking scenarios.

Industry Placement & Career Guidance

Gain insights into the film industry, access networking opportunities, and receive career placement support to secure roles in production houses.

MODULE - 1

FOUNDATIONS OF FILM DIRECTION (Weeks 1-2)

Objective : Understand the fundamentals of film direction, visual storytelling, and the director’s role in filmmaking.

✔ Introduction to Film Direction & Filmmaking Process
✔ Understanding Film Language (Shots, Angles, Camera Movements)
✔ Fundamentals of Cinematic Storytelling
✔ Film Genres and Narrative Structures
✔ The Role of a Director in Pre-Production, Production & Post-Production
✔ Case Study: Evolution of the Kannada Film Industry & Its Influence
✔ Shot Composition, Framing & Visual Aesthetics

✅ Scene Breakdown & Shot Composition Exercise 
✅ Short Scene Analysis (Including Kannada & Global Films)

MODULE - 2

SCRIPT & SCREENPLAY DEVELOPMENT (Weeks 3-4)

Objective : Learn how to develop a compelling story, write a screenplay, and plan a film visually.

✔ Understanding the Three-Act Structure
✔ Developing Characters & Conflict in Storytelling
✔ Writing a Screenplay (Formatting, Dialogue, Scene Transitions)
✔ Introduction to Storyboarding & Visualization
✔ Directing Actors: Performance Techniques & Character Development
✔ The Influence of Kannada Culture & Language on Storytelling
✔ Adapting Real-Life Stories into Cinematic Narratives

✅ Write a Short Film Script (5-10 minutes)
✅ Create a Storyboard & Visual Plan for a Scene

MODULE - 3

CINEMATIC TECHNIQUES & ON-SET EXECUTION (Weeks 5-6)

Objective : Learn the techniques of directing a film on set, from working with actors to managing a crew.

  • Directing the Camera: Shot Blocking & Movement
  • Working with Cinematographers & Lighting Teams
  • Scene Continuity, Transitions & Shot Planning
  • Improvisation & Creative Problem-Solving on Set
  • The Role of Background Music & Sound in Film
  • Handling Large-Scale vs. Small-Budget Productions
  • Challenges & Opportunities in the Kannada Film Industry

✔️ Blocking & Shooting a Dialogue Scene
✔️ Directing a Silent Scene to Convey Emotion

MODULE - 4

SHORT FILM PRODUCTION
(Weeks 7-8)

Objective : Apply all learned techniques in a hands-on short film production
experience.

  • Pre-Production: Budgeting, Scheduling & Location Scouting
  • Casting & Rehearsals with Actors
  • Managing a Film Crew & Ensuring On-Set Efficiency
  • Directing Under Time Constraints & Pressure
  • Production Logistics for Short Films
  • Case Study: Kannada Indie Film Success Stories

✔️ Direct & Shoot a 3-5 Minute Short Film

MODULE - 5

POST-PRODUCTION & EDITING FOR DIRECTORS
(Weeks 9-10)

Objective : Understand the post-production process and how directors shape the final
film.

  • Introduction to Editing: The Director’s Role
  • Film Rhythm, Pacing & Transitions
  • Color Grading & Visual Enhancements
  • Sound Design, Dubbing & ADR (Including Regional Considerations)
  • Adding Background Score & Music Composition
  • Case Study: Editing Styles in Modern Kannada Cinema

✔️ Post-Production Review & Editing Exercise
✔️ Sound & Music Integration in a Scene

MODULE - 6

FILM DISTRIBUTION, CAREER GUIDANCE & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT (Weeks 11-12)

Objective : Learn how to build a career in film direction, distribute films, and connect with the industry.

  • Film Festival Circuits & Submission Strategies
  • Pitching Projects to Producers & Studios
  • Kannada Film Industry Insights & Career Paths
  • OTT Platforms & Independent Filmmaking Opportunities
  • Creating a Director’s Portfolio & Showreel
  • Internship & Placement Assistance in Production Houses

✔️ Pitch a Film Concept to an Industry Panel
✔️ Portfolio Review & Career Planning

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