A survey of the history, organization and current structure of film and television; and the societal and cultural influences of media. Equivalent course TVDM 101 effective through Summer 2021.
Restriction(s): Film and Television B.A. and B.F.A. majors only. This course is an introduction to the basic elements of short digital film production, wherein students immediately begin creating their own narrative films. Students will be provided with numerous opportunities to develop and express their own cinematic syntax while obtaining the necessary technical knowledge with cameras, lighting, sound, and editing concepts. Equivalent course FMTV 220 effective through Winter 2024.
Prerequisite(s): WRIT 105 or HONP 100. Basic elements of digital film production will be explored from script, camera, lighting, sound, and post -production. Students will work in groups and individually on narrative and experimental filmed exercises in order to explore the power of-the visual moving picture. Equivalent course FILM 201 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): WRIT 105 or HONP 100. Filmmakers on filmmaking: a series of lecture/presentations by some of the most influential film and video professionals working in the field today. Guest artists working on the cutting edge of technology and content development will discuss such topics as the role of film and video in contemporary society, the creative process, and the diverse and dynamic approaches to their medium. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits as long as the topic is different, and with departmental permission. Equivalent course FILM 250 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): WRIT 105 or HONP 100. The development of the motion picture as an art form from its earliest stages to the present; the technical, social, economic, cultural, and esthetic factors taught as a comparative study to approaches in contemporary cinema. Equivalent course FILM 280 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. An examination of the history of television programming in the United States. Students view original programs that constitute some of the key moments in television history and assess their significance based on aesthetic, content-oriented, technological, sociological, and political-economic points of view. Equivalent course TVDM 260 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): WRIT 105. Nearly 20-percent of all Americans have a disability; it is a demographic that spans all ethnicities, classes and ages. Yet, media representations of people with physical, sensory or developmental impairments have for long portrayed these individuals as helpless, inspirational or villainous. These limited depictions and caricatures contribute to prejudice that prevents access to equal education, job opportunities as well as social mobility. But now, people with a disability are no longer allowing fully-abled actors, writers and journalists to speak on their behalf and are making US and global media more inclusive.
Prerequisite(s): WRIT 106 or HONP 101. An introduction to the art of screenwriting through short writing exercises; analysis of produced screenplays and films along with the completion of a short screenplay. Students will be expected to develop creative as well as technical aspects of the craft. Meets the Graduation Writing Requirement for majors in Film and Television. Equivalent course FILM 230 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 201. This more advanced course will build on students' basic knowledge of camera, lighting, sound recording and post-production in order to direct and produce a short film shot digitally. An emphasis will be placed on understanding the technical requirements digital production as well as narrative storytelling. Equivalent course FILM 221 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120. This intermediate workshop introduces students to EFP (electronic field production) and the non-linear post-production techniques in the editing facilities of the School of Communication and Media. FMTV 222 expands the concepts and elements of production and editing learned in FMTV 120 by exploring the aesthetics of production genres beyond narrative.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. Restriction(s): Film and Television BA majors only. A workshop presenting the fundamentals of studio television production; opportunity to demonstrate creative potential through short studio productions; emphasis upon the idea, and principles of camera blocking. Equivalent course TVDM 251 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): WRIT 105 or HONP 100. Introduces the basic skill of acting based on the actor's inner and outer resources; concentrates on the characterization development explored in Stanislavski's Method of Physical Action; introduces theory and technique of creating a role and scoring a role; explores both solo work and scene study, lab work, acting etudes, and performance. Techniques and material will focus on film applications and acting for the camera. This is a Learning Community Class to be taught to first-year Film and Television majors. Equivalent course FILM 205 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. A hands-on introduction to technical aspects of basic studio and field equipment. Equivalent course TVDM 205 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): ENFL 208 or FMTV 205; and FMTV 201 or FMTV 120. This course will introduce students to the function, artistry and craft of film production design. Students will initially explore the emotional and psychological effect that the visual environment can convey, in purely sculptural terms (form, texture and color). They will then apply this to the craft of cinematic storytelling. Equivalent course FILM 222 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110 or ENFL 208. This course is designed to explore and deepen the understanding of story structure though the analysis of successful films. Students will learn how essential information is relayed through visual means, how dramatic momentum is built with cause and effect, and what makes a character credible and complex. Students will end the term with an ability to critically examine a film via its screenplay and apply that knowledge to their own work. Equivalent course FILM 255 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. This course is a special topic offering that may explore contemporary issues and/or techniques of film and television. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course TVDM 255 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): MUMG 100. Music supervisors are creative professionals who work closely with both the directors of media projects and the recording artists, labels, and publishers who create the music for those projects. This course will cover the process of finding, placing, and licensing those “perfect songs” that bring so much to the productions you love. Students will gain an understanding of the pivotal role music licensing plays in today’s media marketplace through several real-world licensing examples that will relate to their current and future creative projects. They will also learn about the terms, procedures, and agreements necessary to successfully navigate that part of the music industry. An in-depth examination of standard record company and music publishing contracts that will explore the reciprocal obligations they have to the artists, producers, and songwriters they sign. The course will cover different contract types as well as standard clauses and terms they will need to understand in order to successfully negotiate on behalf of themselves or their future clients.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. Music supervisors are creative professionals who work closely with both the directors of media projects and the recording artists, labels, and publishers who create the music for those projects. This course will cover the process of finding, placing, and licensing those “perfect songs” that bring so much to the productions you love.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. Students will gain an understanding of the pivotal role music licensing plays in today’s media marketplace through several real-world licensing examples that will relate to their current and future creative projects. They will also learn about the terms, procedures, and agreements necessary to successfully navigate that part of the music industry.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. An in-depth examination of standard record company and music publishing contracts that will explore the reciprocal obligations they have to the artists, producers, and songwriters they sign. The course will cover different contract types as well as standard clauses and terms they will need to understand in order to successfully negotiation on behalf of themselves or their future clients.
Prerequisite(s): MURP 150. Restriction(s): Recording Arts and Production majors only. A fundamental workshop exploring the properties and creative uses of sound and music as both a separate medium and as a supplemental tool with visual media. The course focuses on studio and location recording, editing and mixing.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 201 or FMTV 222 or FMTV 231 or FMTV 277 or THTR 100 or THTR 101 or THTR 105 or Departmental Permission. This course will explore different genres of voice over for commercials, animation, video games, audiobook narration, and audio description. Students will develop skills in character development, identify multiple methods of research and script preparation, analyze copy and self direct. Creative play is an important aspect of the course to help students develop curiosity, imagination, movement, and surrender. Students will also gain an understanding of mic technique, practice proper studio etiquette, and record/edit basic single voice recordings.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 277 or FMTV 272. This is a project-based course exploring how to best capture audio on the set of a film or television production. This is an extremely important part of the production process that is often given little attention in student production, causing expensive and less effective re-recording solutions in post-production. All assignments are intended to be completed outside of classroom meetings. Lab time is not required as the work can be completed at home, however use of MSU BMO facilities is highly encouraged.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 210, FMTV 274, or MUGN 241. An introduction to narrative and documentary storytelling in the podcast format where in students will collaborate bringing writers, musicians, and filmmakers together to create soundscapes and informational content to this unique format. Through demonstration and lectures on theory and practice as well as exercises recording sound, mixing, and designing soundscapes for film. Students will be expected to develop creatively as well as learn the technical aspects of the craft. The course should be 3 credits, but has the ability to be a shorter experience and can be repeated. Equivalent course FILM 277 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. A fundamental workshop exploring the properties and creative uses of sound as both a separate medium and as a supplemental tool for the visual image; studio and location recording, editing and mixing. Equivalent course TVDM 277 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of melody and lyric writing, especially as it relates to creating music for media such as film and television. Students will learn about different genres and forms, and will be guided on how to craft well-constructed songs spanning those various types. The business aspects of songwriting will also be covered, including pitching songs for media projects, publishing deals, and licensing.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110. This one-credit course is designed as an immersive weekend workshop that aims to expand, deepen and enrich students’ understanding and appreciation of Sound. Students will participate in an experiential and educational exploration of Sound through the lenses of: (i) science, medicine and healing, (ii) religion and mysticism and (iii) art, color and synesthesia. The workshop will be content-rich, drawing on a variety of methods such as performative lecture, right-brain listening sessions, video screenings, sound meditations, vibrational sound therapy, sound experiments and more. Students will be trained in mindful listening techniques and explore how mindful listening leads to the cultivation of empathy.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120. A unique and intense workshop following a specific topic, skill, and/or aesthetic that is prevalent or as new standards emerge within the Film industry. Topics range from camera instruction (F65, RED, Panavision) to specific instruction on certain vocations such as Assistant Camera, Location Scouting, Production Management in the field, and Assistant Director skills. It might also include Directing Actors, Screenwriting, and Directing for narrative television series. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits. Equivalent course FILM 262 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 110 or WRIT 105 or HONP 100. Students will be introduced to the impact of technological advances on the history and evolution of the documentary art form. Emphasis is placed on how to research and develop long-form documentaries for a variety of outlets. Students will be asked to develop an idea of their choice from the initial research stage to the development of funding proposals, budget, and innovative outreach campaign. Equivalent course TVDM 221 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 222 or JOUR 253 or Departmental Permission. Restriction(s): Students taking this class must participate in the international travel experience that is an integral part of the course. Students will research and travel to a foreign country/culture and produce media feature pieces on the selected country/culture. Project pitches and pre-production are done before the travel, with port-production/editing required after the travel experience. Travel and related expenses are the responsibility of the student.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 227. This course explores the potential impact of visual media use on children's learning, social development, and self-concept; along with contemporary issues surrounding the changing role of television in the lives of families. Students examine depictions of gender, race, violence, consumerism and citizenship, and interrogate the history, economics, regulations and structural features of the children's television industry, including the intricacies of balancing commercial constraints and opportunities with potential audience impact. Equivalent course TVDM 353 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): ENFL 208 or FMTV 205. This course is designed to explore and deepen the understanding of story structure. It will introduce students to the alphabet of myth, the ancient and ever modem language of storytelling, and help them create cinematic stories that are both universal and timely. We will analyze films that update and revise old myths (such as Black Orpheus, Dogma, Days of Heaven, My Own Private Idaho, Pan's Labyrinth), identifying character archetypes, story patterns and visual symbols (universal as well as unique to a specific culture) that add to these films' universal appeal. We will examine how three key definitions of myth (historical, cultural, personal) can be used in - and challenged by - the films and the film genres. The assignments will include readings, screenings, and writing exercises along with the discussions. By the end of the term, students will complete a short script based on the exercises. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course FILM 283 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): ENFL 208 or FMTV 205. The avant-garde cinema from its 1920-30 European surrealist roots through the 1940's American school to present-day experimental, structural and personal films will be screened and critically discussed in their historical and theoretical contexts then and now. Equivalent course FILM 282 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): ENFL 208 or FMTV 205; and FMTV 210. The art and craft of writing for the screen will be both studied and practiced. After studying the fundamentals of effective cinematic story construction and dialogue writing, students will be required to write a half hour film script.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 210 and FMTV 120. This course will concentrate on skills of camera and sound work. The emphasis of this class will be on mastering solid technical skills with the equipment while working with a crew, so that the students can discover their own creative identity in making short films. Equivalent course FILM 260 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 256. This more advanced production design course will enable students to explore the collaborative process between the director, cinematographer and the production designer in creating the visual metaphors of a script. Students will learn the artistic expression of production design along with the practical considerations of budget, time and crew constraints. Equivalent course FILM 367 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. Restriction(s): BA and BFA Film and TV majors and Film Studies minors only. Exercises in the use of camera equipment and practice in composition, perspective, interpretive lighting and camera movement.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 210. Restriction(s): Juniors and seniors only; instructor permission required. The SCM Week in LA is a three-credit course that features a nine-day industry visit to Los Angeles (during the spring break period). While visiting media industry studios and offices, students are introduced to producers, executives, writers, editors, post-production supervisors, colorists, etc. as part of their introduction to both the industry and the city of Los Angeles. During the semester's first half, students prepare for the trip by studying sectors of the media industry and the professions of the people with whom they will meet. During the trip and the semester's second half, students produce content that documents and reflects upon their visit to Los Angeles. Special Fee.
Prerequisite(s):FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. Students will enter this course with basic proficiency in post-production. Through lectures, demonstrations, screenings, practice and critique, students will complete the course with the ability to transform raw footage into long form television programs and films.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. An Introduction to Motion Graphics through lectures, project demos, and assigned projects and exercises. Students will acquire a basic knowledge of Adobe After Effects as a primary tool for creating motion graphics, and will be encouraged to learn this software in depth. Opportunities to work on an advanced level will be provided through independent and group-projects. Projects will stress different applications of motion graphics in film and television, from creative / experimental art pieces to deadline-oriented, client driven graphics. Equivalent course FILM 365 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. This course will emphasize the exploration, formal experimentation, materiality, process, and exhibition context of video exhibitions. Screenings of experimental works along with theoretical readings will reflect the specific interests of students. Coursework will include three short projects along with a final project and written journal. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Equivalent course FILM 460 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231. Advanced workshop providing opportunity for pre-professional level production for distribution off-campus; emphasis on selection of quality properties for production; introduction to on-line post-production techniques. Equivalent course TVDM 357 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 210. This course will emphasize the exploration, content and character development, experimentation, and process of creating comedy sketchwriting. Screenings of works along with theoretical readings and in-class group performance will reflect students' specific interests. Coursework will include writing packet of five short sketches developed from the initial in-class improvisations. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 and FMTV 222. Students participate in three hours per week of hands-on production activity in support of School of Communication and Media (SCM) and Broadcast Media Operations (BMO) initiatives. Assignments are scheduled to accommodate students' availability throughout the semester.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. An introductory course to Professional Production Management that provides the student with the information and practice or managing the making of a feature film or long form television show. Students will examine the structure of the crew and the collaborative responsibilities of crew members, the legal issues of permits, insurance, rights, clearances and permissions; Screen Actors Guild requirements, the management of the production including scheduling, budgeting, transportation, and the production's responsibilities to cast and crew. Each student will be required to prepare a production book for his or her shoot.by the end of the class that will include a final marked script, script breakdown pages, shooting schedule, budget, cast, crew and location lists. Equivalent course FILM 364 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231 or FMTV 353. Restriction(s): Juniors and seniors only; Film and Television B.A. students only; School of Communication and Media approval required. Students serve as teaching assistants for intermediate and advanced production courses in the School of Communication and Media. The course is designed to provide students with hands-on experience with tools and techniques of content production in studio and field settings. While the course itself is asynchronous, students (as teaching assistants) are assigned to a production course with a particular meeting schedule, which entails up to 4 hours and 20 minutes of classroom work per week. (There is no expected work outside of class meeting times.)
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120. Principles and techniques of film editing: artistic and esthetic concepts; practice with standard editing equipment. Equivalent course FILM 360 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 222 or FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. This course is an advanced special topic offering that may explore contemporary issues and/or techniques of film and television. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits, provided the topic is different.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. Restriction(s): Film and Television BA and BFA majors only. Economic support patterns, evolution of broadcast programming; ascertainment of community needs; station promotion and advertising; legal and ethical issues relating to broadcasting. Equivalent course TVDM 361 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): CMST 210 or departmental permission. Restriction(s): Only students who are enrolled in the SCM's semester in Los Angeles program may take this course. During a semester in Los Angeles, students will study the structure and influence of the L.A. media and entertainment industry. Through lectures and interactions with media professionals, students will gain in-depth understandings of Hollywood's breadth, interdependence, and impact as a significant cultural force and global economic engine. Upon completion, students will have a better grasp of how media entertainment is created and sold in Los Angeles and how this informs their own careers.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222 or DNCE 275. In this course, film and dance majors come together to examine the interdisciplinary possibilities of movement and film. We will discuss the camera as an alternate stage space and will explore the effects of lighting, lenses, and camera movement on dance. This project-based class will provide students hands-on production experience as students collaborate in the production, filming, and editing of a completed dance short film.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. Students will develop music production skills focusing on the technical aspects and creative uses of MIDI, standard music studio procedures, session management, and microphone placement/selection for capturing acoustic instruments.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. This is a software specific course designed to offer students the necessary skills to work in a professional film and television post production environment. Pro Tools is the dominant audio software used industry wide and its mastery is key to future success. The course will provide appropriate preparation for students to work effectively in our advanced courses.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 373 and FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. This production course will introduce students to the concepts and production techniques used in multitrack music recording. The class will explore the impact these techniques have had on music, as well as their creative use in a studio environment. Students will complete several recording projects as part of the course requirement, as well as develop skills in session management, signal flow/trouble shooting, mic placement, mixing and signal processing.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. The creation of Foley sound is an essential aspect of most every narrative film and television production. This class will cover basic Foley Artist and Foley recording techniques, and is recommended for audio focused students, as well as student directors working on their thesis films. Participation is the key to understanding Foley, and class sessions will be spent imagining, creating, and recording Foley sound. Student thesis films will be used whenever possible for the Foley sessions.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. This production-oriented class will explore the aesthetics and techniques of sound design for radio, television, and film. Students will analyze professional sound designs in these media and create their own projects using creative and technical techniques discussing in class. Equivalent course TVDM 377 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 277. Film and media production as of late is moving at tremendous pace. The streaming industry has fueled the demand for music like never before. This course will introduce students to the art of editing music to visual media, an integral aspect of every audio/visual production.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 375; and FMTV 272 or FMTV 277. An understanding of signal flow is essential to the ability to work effectively in any studio situation. This studio course explores session management practices and signal flow in recording studios, audio consoles, and digital audio workstations. All of these areas are essential for getting best results from technology, performers, and budget/time. Students will get hands-on practice with exercises in order to develop essential skills.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 283. This course enables students to move from conception to production and discover the various genres and methods of documentary filmmaking. Students develop conceptual and technological abilities to produce non-fiction documentary films, where in the class they make an observation (verite) film, a portrait, and an overall film either mixing the two assignments with archives, or by using other hybrid techniques using performance or animation. The class is a workshop atmosphere where students interact with each other's work and help to create and learn from each other's individual films.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 or FMTV 222. Students work closely under the supervision of studio operations personnel/technicians to concentrate on the maintenance and operation of the School of Communication and Media's facilities. Opportunity for students to work intensively with advanced production hardware. Equivalent course TVDM 355 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 310 or ENFL 310. This is a more advanced course in which students will work on a major screen writing project of their choosing. Students will have the option to develop and write a senior thesis film, serialized narratives or longer dramas. Particular attention will be paid to honing dramatic structure, visual language and character development.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 210. This special topics screenwriting course would give students an opportunity to explore new topics such as: writing specific genres in TV and FILM, adaptation of novels or stories from life or the news, as well as non-fiction scripting for films and television. The theme would be determined and slotted in the name when this course is offered. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course FILM 462 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 310. This course is an intensive seminar in screenwriting in the genre of original narrative films that are feature length. Screenwriters will develop material and shape into a strong narrative with an emphasis on dramatic structure, visual language and character development. Students will complete a treatment or step outline at the start of class. Through the use of readings, writing exercises, screening and workshops students will develop and learn the skills necessary to complete a part of a full-length feature screenplay. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course FMTV 311 effective through Winter 2025.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 310. Students will explore the craft of writing serialized television or web programming. The course will delve into the varied genres of a series and the diverse writing styles and approaches required. In addition to studying existing successful programs, the course will clarify the necessary skills needed for writing the various genres of serialized entertainment. Equivalent course FMTV 312 effective through Winter 2025.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 210. This course will introduce students to the specific requirements necessary to write and create satisfying interactive media including video games, point of sale, and video installations. Students will learn about the complex worlds that are the province of gaming, how to create them along with the unique stories involved. Equivalent course FMTV 314 effective through Winter 2025.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 310. Students will learn Flash software, web animation authoring tools and will develop the skills necessary to create web-based multimedia using sound, graphics, animation and interactive components. Students will plan and create final projects such as an informational or instructional tutorial, a dynamic simulation or a multimedia game. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Equivalent course FMTV 317 effective through Winter 2025.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 324. This production design course connects designer / film students with a mentor in the field so that they might weigh in and give feedback on the productions they are working on outside of class. They will be responsible for finding productions they can work on to use this class. Equivalent course FILM 420 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 322; FMTV 310 or ENFL 310. Restriction(s): Film & Television BFA and BA majors only. This course will allow students to focus on the process of directing actors. A special emphasis will be placed on communicating with actors to extract dynamic performances while also focusing on planning coverage, blocking, the importance of sets, props and costumes, camera movement, visualizing subtext, and editorial choices. Equivalent course FILM 430 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 322. Filmmaking students will learn the process creating commercials, public service announcements as well as political spots. Students will gain an understanding into the agency and client relationship as well as the importance of the director's reel. Equivalent course FILM 455 effective through Fall 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 355 or FMTV 359 may be taken as a prerequisite or concurrent requisite for BA students; or FMTV 322 for BFA students. A topical class that provides students unique opportunities to produce individual and/or group work thematically related to a theme or topic chosen by the Instructor. This studio course is completely project-based, giving students real world experience. Topics and themes will change. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231. Students are instructed in script analysis, interpretation and staging of narrative scripts. Students are encouraged to write one-act original scripts or to produce scripts written in prior courses. Students must manage a cast and crew in studio and remote locations in single and multiple camera production environments. Students fulfill all crew positions while learning advanced producing and directing techniques.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231. Producing series length scripts that were written in prior coursework, students conduct all aspects of pre-production including script breakdown and analysis, casting, site scouting, production design, crew and facilities scheduling and budgeting. Fulfilling all crew positions, students then produce the scripts on location and in the studio in both single and multiple camera environments. Students must stage and record all action. Students then edit the footage into the final programs that are ready for distribution.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 222 or FMTV 231. This course provides students with instruction and experience in conceiving and developing Reality Television. Students will write, cast, produce, direct and edit storylines based on established and emerging Reality TV formats. Production may occur in crew in studio and remote locations and in single and multiple camera production environments.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231. Students will explore producing and directing techniques and production management concepts for live performance programming. Students will fulfill all crew positions for a variety of music, dance and performance art programs in multicamera production venues on campus or from remote sites.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 222. This special topics offering allows students to explore particular contemporary topics related to media production and analysis. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 360. Advanced level editing with Avid editors. This course is designed to train students in advanced-level skills by completing actual projects. Students will be expected to come to class with the dailies for a film they have shot. It can be their thesis film or a film they have completed but would like to improve by re-cutting or "fine tuning" e.g. this might involve more sophisticated color correction or the addition of sound effects and/or a complex sound design. The class will involve individual instruction, critique, instruction in color correction, sound and music editing, and workflow in the editing room. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course FILM 425 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 341. This class will provide advanced-level exploration of aesthetics, technology, and the process of cinematography used in narrative and documentary applications. Students will gain a working knowledge of the advanced level of cameras in the film program, and are expected to develop complex lighting and shot designs. Emphasis is on aesthetic use of the technical elements of motion picture acquisition. Includes significant collaboration with other courses in the curriculum including BFA in Filmmaking Thesis Projects. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course FILM 426 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 222. This advanced editing course interprets and shapes the content produced in students' previously conducted production courses. Students will learn and build editing strategies in Adobe Premiere and produce and distribute short and long form programs spanning genres of narrative, Web-series, reality, art & cultural, and special topics.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 352. Continuation of FILM 460. Screenings of experimental works along with theoretical readings will reflect the specific interests of students. Coursework will include two short projects along with a final project and written journal. Equivalent course FILM 461 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231 or FMTV 353. Restriction(s): Film and Television majors. This course is an advanced production course that is designed for upper level FMTV majors. The course is structured as a production company with the students serving in key creative and support positions to produce a variety of original programs and School of Communication and Media or College of the Arts initiatives. The objective of this company is to produce professional programming, suitable for distribution on current and emerging platforms. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Equivalent course TVDM 451 effective through Summer 2022.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 231 or FMTV 322 or FMTV 324 or FMTV 341 or FMTV 353 or FMTV 477. Advanced students fulfill a portion of their Filmmaking Concentration requirements working for a professional film, television, or media company and gaining field experience. This experience should enable the student to gain working knowledge of the film/video industry under the supervision of a mentor in the field and a faculty member at the college.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 120 and FMTV 222. Creating a movie, television program, or other A/V property is more than just a labor of love: it's also an investment of time and money. But while countless hours are spent setting up shots or interviewing subjects, many content creators spend far too little time taking care of the legal aspects of their productions. As a result, creators often learn the difficult lesson that no matter how good their work is they are vulnerable to lawsuits unless all the necessary rights and permissions have been secured. In fact, without the right contracts in place, creators may be surprised to find out that they may not even own their own projects! Whether you have a finished film, a script, or the beginnings of an idea for an audiovisual website, this course will introduce the legal protections you need to safeguard your project. Equivalent course FMTV 370 effective through Winter 2025.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 310, FMTV 358 or FMTV 383. This course follows a producer's role from the selection of material through its development, preproduction, production and post-production to the delivery of the completed work. How to arrive at a compelling storyline, hiring above and below-the-line personnel, budgets and schedules. Supervising the production. Students choose a project they want to produce, "pitch it to the class," and then write a professional proposal for it. Equivalent course FILM 368 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 477. An advanced exploration of the creative and technical aspects of sound design for video games through research and analysis, lab assignments, and audio implementation as students will be expected to develop creatively as well as master the technical aspects of the craft.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 477. This project-based course explores how to properly balance sound elements in order to create a professional quality finished mix for film or television production. Mixing is the final step in film and television production and incorporates dialog, music and sound effects. Students will get regular hands-on practice with multiple projects in order to develop essential skills. All assignments are intended to be completed outside of classroom meetings. Lab time at MSU BMO facilities is recommended but not required as the work can be completed at home.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 375 and FMTV 379. A continuation of the content of FMTV 375, students will learn and explore more advanced techniques geared toward recording acoustic instruments. The course is conducted in a recording studio, where students will record outside musicians in both tracking and overdubbing sessions.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 375 and FMTV 379. A continuation of the content of FMTV 375, students will learn and explore more advanced techniques geared toward mixing acoustic instruments. The course will be taught in a recording studio, where students will mix previously recorded sessions.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 377; and FMTV 374 may be taken as prerequisite or corequisite. A continuation of FMTV 377. This class continues to explore the aesthetics and techniques of sound design utilizing nonlinear digital recording techniques. Students will focus on signal processing techniques, mixing techniques, DAW signal flow, and delivering projects to professional specs and formats. Equivalent course TVDM 477 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 355 or FMTV 359. Restriction(s): Seniors only (90 credits completed). The course is designed to prepare students for the transition from a student to a working professional with an emphasis on writing, interviewing, networking, job availability and possibilities, and professional conduct. Guest speakers from the industry will provide advice for obtaining and maintaining employment. Equivalent course TVDM 450 effective through Summer 2021.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 400 or JOUR 341. Students will study the forms, styles and techniques of documentary filmmaking (Cinema Verite, Reality TV, Essay Form) and in groups apply this knowledge through the creation of small exercises and a long form documentary film or episodic series. Equivalent course FMTV 400 effective through Winter 2025.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 422 and FMTV 283 or FMTV 324 or FMTV 410. Restriction(s): BFA in Film and Television majors only. This course is an intensive seminar designed to prepare students to complete a final thesis film by the end of spring semester. It will include development (determining content and scope of project), pre-production (planning and shoot scheduling and budgeting), and some production if equipment is available for use. Emphasis will be placed on the understanding and development of a style of one's own appropriate to the content of the thesis project as presented in class. Through the use of readings, professional guests, screenings and critique, students will be expected to have a production-ready script, look book, and production book for their final thesis film by the end of the fall semester. Equivalent course FILM 491 effective through Summer 2022.
Prerequisite(s): FMTV 491. This course concentrates on the production aspect of the thesis film. The main emphasis of this class will be on shooting and editing the final work. Time will be spent in detailed critique of dailies, rough-cut and fine cut. Students will prepare their work for final presentation to the class, the faculty, in the senior show, and for their portfolios. The goal of the class will be to strengthen the work through critique and analysis. Equivalent course FILM 492 effective through Summer 2022.