Experience the Film Magic.

What to expect during 12 weeks of the course

Practical experience

You will experience a set of hands-on modules, working with 16 mm film stock, including film developing and flat-bed editing. You will practice how to light a scene, learn elementary principles of film sound, and other necessary processes that come with making a short movie.

Script Lab – Development of your movie

During the script lab you will explore the dramaturgical perspective of film-making, understand diverse narrative techniques, structures and genre forms. Throughout the course you will be guided by a mentor who will help you develop your final movie.

Directing

You will learn the fundamentals of film language and grammar, and establish basic knowledge of the craft, by developing your own project and working collaboratively on your classmates' projects.

Working with actors is another part of directing, and you will be introduced to principles every week in specifically focused classes.

Cinematography

Film is a visual medium and therefore it is important to understand how to convey your message through images. You will learn about shot sizes, axis rules, angles, color as well as practical knowledge of cameras, lenses and lighting.

Production

To ensure the production itself is as smooth as possible, you will be working with a professional production manager. They will be your partner from early in pre-production, guiding you through and helping you find the right cast, locations, props and costumes.

Post-production

You will learn the essentials of editing, both image and sound,and you will work closely with a professional colorist and a sound engineer/designer.

Academy Approach to the Process

Our mentors will work closely with you on your ideas in a collaborative process. We expect  our students to be open towards both success and failure and we encourage them to not be afraid of making mistakes, as mistakes are an inevitable part of any creative process. Understanding and experiencing failures are an essential part of learning.

Final screening

Your movie will be screened in front of your classmates and a FAMU Faculty Jury. You will receive feedback from the members of the jury.

Upon the conclusion of the course, FAMU provides each participant with a full transcript of records. For the course syllabus, a number of contact hours and credits and methods of evaluation, please download the following PDF.

Experience filmmaking in Central Europe

The Czech Republic is one of the best places to make a movie when in Europe. We're situated in the heart of Europe and have a long filmmaking tradition.

Prague itself is a stunning city to visit. From the amazing historic landmarks through the beautiful parks and old narrow streets, to modern apartments and beautiful cafés. What's not to like?

And our filmmaking records speak for themselves – throughout the last 20 years, films and TV series, such as Blade II, The Bourne Identity, Van Helsing, Casino Royale, Wanted, Mission Impossible, Snowpiercer, Carnival Row, JoJo Rabbit, Spider-Man, The Letter for the King or The Wheel of Time were all made here.

How to apply

The application process is simple: fill out your information and upload up to 3 links to your previous works, short motivation letter (maximum of 150 words) and your CV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get long-term VISA to come study in Czech Republic?

You don't have to worry about long-term VISA. The course is designed to be finished in 90 days since your arrival – and for that you only need short-term (touristic) ones.

What about the Covid19 situation? What measures do you have in place?

We follow the regulations and requirements determined by Czech government. We are prepared for both academical hours and practical production so that we may ensure safety of our students, staff and external contractors.