Avid Learning presents The Art of Filmmaking, a masterclass/workshop for independent filmmakers with Film Director, Writer and Producer Dev Benegal. From concept to creation to exhibition, Dev will discuss the creative processes involved in making a film and all stages of its production. Dev’s film, “English, August”, won National Film Award for Best Feature Film (English) in 1995. It was the first Indian film to be acquired for distribution by 20th Century Fox.

Filmmaking involves a number of different and separate stages. In this workshop, Dev will explore the entire journey a film takes from an idea to the development of an initial story through to screenwriting, to casting, preparing for the production, the production, principal photography also known as shooting, sound recording, editing, and finally distribution. He will examine the technical aspects of filmmaking, emphasizing on how decisions regarding cameras, lenses, light and location etc. affect the tone or style of a film.

The strength of this masterclass is discovering that part of filmmaking not taught in film school. What is the journey of a filmmaker and how do they negotiate that rollercoaster ride? How do they navigate expectations, struggles and successes? Dev’s strength and unique insights are taking participants through the real world of filmmaking. He will also examine the artistic and dramatic aspects involved in visualizing the screenplay and detail the methods filmmakers use to add to a film’s aesthetic value. How do the creative visionaries involved in the making of a film, including the director, the production designer, and the director of photography, collectively decide how the audience should feel throughout the film? And what cinematic techniques do they employ to trigger those emotions? He will also discuss various marketing strategies independent filmmakers use to promote their films.

Workshop Highlights include:

Writing the Screenplay: Finding an idea, creating characters and story structure

Making the Movie: Creating a budget, casting, choosing equipment, locations etc.

Basics of Directing and Cinematography

Post Processing: Editing, Sound Recording etc.

Marketing and Promotion of the film