FMS Narratives

It has been said that films are written three times: before, during, and after filming. In this practice-based course, students will explore many of the conceptual and practical opportunities and challenges of creating meaning and telling stories with moving images before and after filming. In addition to screenings and critiques of student work, we will watch and examine a wide range of short and long form films from the U.S. and around the world—fiction, non-fiction, experimental, and expressive. Course activities and discussions will approach the practice and art of film editing as distinct from writing and production, but nevertheless as fulfilling, refining, and, at times, expanding upon what had been previously envisaged. Students will gain experience editing both scripted and unscripted work to advance their understanding and mastery of film language, film time, and how directors and editors together confront these principles along the way to reaching final cut.