Documentary Filmmaking

For young filmmakers

 
 

Course Description

The Documentary Filmmaking Lab is the first part in a three-series lab for young filmmakers, aspiring and experienced alike. This new media lab will equip students with the tools and experience necessary to plan a short documentary film: crafting a narrative, developing a log line, polishing a pitch, writing a film treatment, and ultimately captivating an audience with their storytelling abilities.  Students will learn skills and hear stories from acclaimed documentary screenwriters, producers, and filmmakers alike, as they work with their instructors to develop a pitch and proposal  for their very own short documentary film.

Documentary Filmmaking Student Projects

Featured
Rising Waters in Rockaway: An Exploration of the Local Effects of Sea Rise
Rising Waters in Rockaway: An Exploration of the Local Effects of Sea Rise

In as little as five years, the Atlantic Ocean could be right outside Charlie’s front door in New York City. Charlie’s documentary film treatment investigates the consequences of rising sea levels and the most vulnerable areas of his city. He advocates for solutions to rising sea levels and inspires climate action to preserve coastal communities across the globe.

Teenagers Guide to the Pandemic: Home School Edition
Teenagers Guide to the Pandemic: Home School Edition

The pandemic brought on a new normal for us all. In his documentary film treatment, Jacob investigates the rising popularity of homeschooling during the COVID-19 pandemic and reports on unique difficulties the COVID-19 pandemic posed for previously homeschooled students. He draws on his research and experiences to share steps to restore routine and return to pre-pandemic normalcy.