FILM EDUCATION

Directing Fundamentals. Without a strong vision behind a story, a film will lose its focus. A film director needs to have an understanding of how each department contributes to the making of a film and how to best utilize the talents of all team members. The following 100 LEVEL blogs cover the role and responsibilities of a director in script development, pre-production, production, and post production. Read along to learn how to tell a story cinematically, use the camera as a tool, prepare a script analysis and engage in the casting and rehearsal process with actors.

July 28, 2024

Film Directing 126: The Director's Playbook

July 28, 2024/ john pozer

Directors need a strong idea for what they’re looking for in every scene

After all the planning, preparation, meetings, auditions, rehearsals, location scouts, etc. – the first day of principle photography is what all the work has been about.

Your script analysis, thumbnail frames, shotlist, schematics, and meetings with your creative keys have helped build the plan for the production.

Pre-thinking performance notes and details are a vital part of the playbook.

June 25, 2024

Film Directing 124: The Director's Tech Survey

June 25, 2024/ john pozer

Let's get this show on the road!

The tech survey is where the rubber hits the road for the directing team: laying out the production plans, the schedule, the start and stop times — basically, everything that’s going to happen for each day of shooting at each set.

The more details and precision, the better. Thoroughness and clarity are key.

Make the most of your tech survey. It sets the tone for your shoot.

June 19, 2024

Film Directing 123: Show and Tell Meetings

June 19, 2024/ 21 century film/ john pozer

Keep production running smoothly with no surprises

Show and Tell meetings bring together the various elements of the images you plan to create. They also help you avoid unwanted surprises during principle photography.

Everyone on the filmmaking team wants to deliver their best work. Clear, concise communication and decisive leadership from the director is a must. Effective show and tell meetings begin with the director. Vagueness and uncertainty are not helpful and will likely lead to delays and disappointments on set.

Get all your ducks (and seahorses) in a row!

June 04, 2024

Film Directing 122: The Director's Locations

June 04, 2024/ john pozer

Give your locations the kid-glove treatment

The right location can improve the look of your film – but it can also be a production nightmare. Make sure to consider your priorities. Know what you need for your frames to look good and for your shoot to run smoothly.

There are certain amenities and necessities to look for when scouting locations – both interiors and exteriors. If a location looks great but lacks the convenience, space, and facilities – protect the downside. Production slowdowns are one thing. Unhappy coworkers are another.

May 15, 2024

Film Directing 121: The Director in Rehearsal

May 15, 2024/ john pozer

Treat rehearsal like a fire - Build it slow and sure

If there is time to rehearse with your actors ahead of the shoot, great! But it’s important to know what you want to accomplish.

There's a rhythm to rehearsal. It’s the rhythm of exploration, of discovery. There is much to gain if you know what you’re looking for. Step into the moment with your actors. Engage as they engage. Learn from them. Watch them like newborn babies.

Rehearsals can be the key to building better performances. Stay relaxed and have fun.

May 13, 2024

Film Directing 120: The Director-Actor Relationship

May 13, 2024/ john pozer

Be kind. Be generous. Be specific.

In the book, 21st Century Film Student PRIMER, all students are encouraged to take an acting course or acting workshop so they can better understand what actors do. Why? Because you’ll be a better director.

Memorizing lines, keeping it fresh, staying ‘in the moment,’ and taking direction are tall orders for most people. Once you’ve walked in the actor’s shoes, you can better relate to the process of acting and being directed.

The craft of directing is an ongoing learning experience.

May 03, 2024

Film Directing 118: The Director and Continuity

May 03, 2024/ john pozer

Embrace continuity and be a better director

When you’re crewing up for camera, lighting, sound, makeup, etc., the role of script continuity can be an afterthought.

I recommend finding someone who wants to do script continuity on every film. It’s an important role in longer form television and feature productions. When you get onto a professional set, they will be beside you for every shot.

Value the support they provide, and you will be a better director.

April 26, 2024

Film Directing 115: The Director in Casting

April 26, 2024/ john pozer

Cast well and 90% of your job is done

The casting process is crucial. Actors can make or break the success of your film and your filmmaking experience. Give it the time it deserves, and give it your all.

Remember this: the audition is the first date in the actor-director relationship. It sets the tone for the creative partnership.

Setting a consistent high bar for each actor’s audition is the best way to tackle this critical juncture. Rule #1: Respect the actors! Respect them as you go through every stage of the process!

April 12, 2024

Film Directing 110: The Director's Camera

April 12, 2024/ john pozer

The most powerful storytelling tool is the camera

Creating strong images that are carefully designed with intentional storytelling details is the director’s job. The power and effectiveness of the storytelling lies in the director’s camera choices.

The beginning director must have an understanding of how camera placement and movement can convey the narrative purpose of a shot or a scene.

April 08, 2024

Film Directing 109: The Director's Eye

April 08, 2024/ john pozer

Develop an eye for visual possibilities

We know that filmmaking is a collaborative art and that the cast and crew work together to support the best possible storytelling. However, the director is ultimately responsible for building a strong, cinematic story.

Developing your eye as a film director is an ongoing process of understanding, observation, and patience. Every day and every film is full of opportunities to learn.