The Directors' Weekend
Presented by Women in Film and Television - Toronto in partnership with DGC Ontario


December 8-9, 2007

DRAFT SCHEDULE:

Day 1: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
Saturday December 8, 2007

Session 1: Directors Prep
This session will explore the work of the Director that takes place before production begins. Topics will include:

• Breaking down the script
• Deciding on the visual style
• Casting and the role of the casting agent
• Camera movement
• Storyboards
• Shot lists
• Blocking

Session 2: Directing Styles
This session will explore a selection of Directors’ distinct styles and the impact their style has had on their level of success. This session will include a case study.

Session 3: Working with Producers
The relationship between Director and Producer is an extremely important one in the making of a successful picture. This session will examine the various responsibilities of each of these key positions during pre-production. Topics will include:

• Determining a shared vision
• Roles and responsibilities
• Hiring procedures for cast and crew
• Location

Session 4: The Director and Relationships on Set
This session will examine the relationship between the director and each of the members of the production team as well as the specific job responsibilities for each position and how they interact and support the entire team. Topics will include:

• Production Manager
• First Assistant Director
• Location Manager
• Production Designer
• Sound Editor
• Set Designer
• Cinematographer
• Casting Director

Session 5: Working with Actors
Now more topical than ever, this session will provide an overview on working with experienced actors, generally ACTRA members, versus non-union actors and the benefits of both. Topics will include:

• ACTRA’s policies
• Guidelines regarding nudity, violence and stunt work
• Hiring a casting director to get the right actors
• Working with casting agents

Day 2: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
Sunday December 9, 2007

Session 6: Storytelling for Directors
The script is at the frontline of all film and television projects. Projects move through development to production when the script brings the world and the characters so fully to life that the gap between reading the script and seeing the film is closed. But how to get there? A Story Editor, Writer and Director will share their collaborative experiences of how to work towards a better script and the best finished project.

Session 8: Case Study A

Session 9: Case Study B

The remainder of Day 2 will focus on two different case studies that will highlight various topics covered so far. Directors will share their insights on directing choices they have made in their projects – what worked, what didn’t and why, and how they apply their expertise as they move forward in their careers.

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