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Home / Syllabus / B.A. (Film, Television and New Media Production) / FY BAFTNMP / Semester 2 / Practical Film Making Documentaries and Non Fiction Films

B.A. (Film, Television and New Media Production) Practical Film Making Documentaries and Non Fiction Films Syllabus - Mumbai University

This is the FY BAFTNMP syllabus under NEP 2020, in force from the academic year 2024-25. The first two years of this degree are on NEP; the third year is still on the University's earlier CBSGS scheme, and it is marked as such on its own pages.

Practical Film Making - Documentaries and Non Fiction Films Syllabus.pdf
Major · Semester 2 · FY BAFTNMP · 4 credits · 60 hours

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Syllabus for Practical Film Making - Documentaries and Non Fiction Films

Major · Semester 2 · FY BAFTNMP · 4 credits · 60 hours

The University prints this paper as “Practical Film Making (Documentaries / Non Fiction Films)”.

Course objectives

  • The primary objective of this advanced non-fiction filmmaking course is to equip students with the practical skills, industry knowledge, and creative insights needed to produce impactful and industry-ready documentaries. By focusing on the latest technologies and industry-standard practices, the course aims to empower participants with hands-on experience in all phases of non-fiction filmmaking, fostering proficiency in pre-production, production, and post-production processes. The overarching goal is to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic and evolving landscape of non-fiction

Course outcomes

  • ● Demonstrate proficiency in the latest technologies and industry-standard practices used in non-fiction filmmaking, including camera operation, sound recording, and editing software. ● Develop a comprehensive understanding of the entire non-fiction filmmaking process, covering pre-production, production, and post-production phases. ● Master storytelling techniques specific to non-fiction filmmaking, with a focus on crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. ● Gain insight into the ethical considerations involved in non-fiction filmmaking, including issues related to representation, subject consent, and responsible storytelling. ● Acquire industry-ready skills essential for successful non-fiction filmmaking careers, including project planning, budgeting, and effective collaboration within a production team. ● Cultivate creative expression in documentary filmmaking, allowing participants to develop a unique voice and style in their work. ● Stay abreast of the evolving landscape of non-fiction filmmaking in 2023, adapting to industry trends, emerging technologies, and changing audience preferences. ● Produce high-quality, impactful documentaries that demonstrate a synthesis of technical skills, creative storytelling, and a nuanced understanding of ethical considerations. ● Develop networking skills and connections within the non-fiction filmmaking industry, facilitating potential collaborations and opportunities. ● Demonstrate awareness of industry standards, distribution channels, and the business aspects of non-fiction filmmaking.

Module 1: Understanding the Non-Fiction Landscape

  • Overview of Contemporary Non-Fiction Filmmaking: Explore current trends, emerging formats, and the influence of digital platforms on non-fiction storytelling.
  • Market Analysis: Analyse the market demands and distribution strategies for non- fiction content in 2023.

Module 2: Pre-Production Excellence

  • Developing a Compelling Concept: Refine the art of crafting a captivating non-fiction concept, including treatment and logline creation.
  • Research and Fact-Checking: Learn rigorous research methods and fact-checking processes crucial for maintaining credibility in non-fiction filmmaking.
  • Budgeting and Scheduling: Understand industry-standard budgeting and scheduling practices, emphasizing efficiency and resource optimization.

Module 3: Advanced Cinematography Techniques

  • Cinematography for Non-Fiction: Master advanced camera techniques, framing, and lighting specific to non-fiction filmmaking.
  • Interview Setups: Explore diverse interview setups, questioning techniques, and strategies for capturing authentic responses.
  • B-Roll Planning: Develop skills in planning and capturing compelling B-roll footage to enhance storytelling.

Module 4: Ethical Considerations and Legalities

  • Ethical Filmmaking: Address the ethical challenges in non-fiction filmmaking, including consent, representation, and storytelling responsibilities.
  • Legal Aspects: Understand legal considerations, including rights clearance, fair use, and release forms in non-fiction production.

Module 5: Post-Production Excellence

  • Editing Strategies: Editing techniques for non-fiction narratives, including pacing,
  • narrative structure, and the integration of visuals and sound.
  • Sound Design and Music: Explore sound design principles and the effective use of music to enhance storytelling.
  • Colour Grading: Learn industry-standard colour grading techniques to create visual cohesion and evoke specific emotions.

Module 6: Industry Showcase and Distribution

  • Industry Pitching: Develop pitching skills for presenting non-fiction projects to
  • potential collaborators, investors, and distributors.
  • Film Festivals and Distribution: Understand the process of submitting to film festivals and explore contemporary distribution models for non-fiction content.
  • Emerging Technologies: Explore the impact of emerging technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and interactive documentaries, on the non-fiction filmmaking landscape.
  • Course Project:
  • Students will work on an original non-fiction project throughout the course, applying the principles learned in each Unit. The final project will be presented to the class, providing an opportunity for peer feedback and refinement.

Textbooks

  • 1. "Making Documentary Films and Reality Videos: A Practical Guide to Planning, Filming, and Editing Documentaries" by Barry Hampe.
  • 2. "The Shut Up and Shoot Documentary Guide: A Down & Dirty DV Production" by Anthony Q. Artis.
  • 3. "Documentary Storytelling: Creative Nonfiction on Screen" by Sheila Curran Bernard.

Cut from the University of Mumbai syllabus for B.A. (Film, Television and New Media Production), item 5.3 (N) of the Academic Council meeting of 20.04.24 (NEP 2020), in force from 2024-25. Wording, module numbering and reading lists are as printed there.

The complete syllabus

This subject is cut from one of the University circulars below. Open the document if you want the whole thing rather than a single subject.

PDF BA FTNMP Sem I and II (2024-25) NEP NEP 2020 syllabus, in force from 2024-25 Read full PDF Read
PDF BA FTNMP Sem III and IV (2025-26) NEP NEP 2020 syllabus, in force from 2025-26 Read full PDF Read
PDF BA FTNMP Sem III Field Project (2025-26) NEP NEP 2020 syllabus, in force from 2025-26 Read full PDF Read
PDF BA FTNMP Sem III Open Elective Ethics and Etiquettes in Digital Technology (2025-26) NEP NEP 2020 syllabus, in force from 2025-26 Read full PDF Read
PDF BA FTNMP Sem IV Open Elective Short Stories from the West (2025-26) NEP NEP 2020 syllabus, in force from 2025-26 Read full PDF Read
PDF BA FTNMP Sem I to VI (2017-18) CBSGS item 4.129 CBSGS syllabus, in force from 2017-18 Read full PDF Read
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