Learn how the industry actually works from idea to distribution.
This crash course is designed for film students and newcomers to the industry, including actors, directors of photography (DPs), producers, and creative professionals. Our goal is to demystify the business and creative processes behind filmmaking, bridging gaps between roles and establishing a common language for everyone entering this dynamic ecosystem. By the end of the course, you’ll understand the full pipeline, recognize how each role fits into the larger picture, and be equipped with practical knowledge to navigate the industry with confidence.
Objectives: Explain the ecosystem, clarify key processes, and build foundational knowledge for all roles
Purpose: Provide a comprehensive, accessible overview of the film and media industry
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Lesson 1: The Big Picture
What Do We Mean by “The Industry”?
Lesson 1 of 6 within section Lesson 1: The Big Picture.
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Above-the-Line vs. Below-the-Line
Lesson 2 of 6 within section Lesson 1: The Big Picture.
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Unions, Guilds & Professional Organizations: Expanded Overview
Lesson 3 of 6 within section Lesson 1: The Big Picture.
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Lesson 4 of 6 within section Lesson 1: The Big Picture.
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The Industry as an Ecosystem
Lesson 5 of 6 within section Lesson 1: The Big Picture.
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Lesson 6 of 6 within section Lesson 1: The Big Picture.
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Lesson 2: Development
Lesson 1 of 5 within section Lesson 2: Development.
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Chain of Title, Options, and Legal Basics
Lesson 2 of 5 within section Lesson 2: Development.
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Film Financing and The Money Flow
Lesson 3 of 5 within section Lesson 2: Development.
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Industry Standards & Professional Etiquette
Lesson 4 of 5 within section Lesson 2: Development.
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Lesson 5 of 5 within section Lesson 2: Development.
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Lesson 3: Pre-Production
Lesson 1 of 5 within section Lesson 3: Pre-Production.
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Lesson 2 of 5 within section Lesson 3: Pre-Production.
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Locations, Logistics & Legal Foundations
Lesson 3 of 5 within section Lesson 3: Pre-Production.
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Lesson 4 of 5 within section Lesson 3: Pre-Production.
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Lesson 5 of 5 within section Lesson 3: Pre-Production.
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Lesson 4: Production
Set Hierarchy & Daily Operations
Lesson 1 of 5 within section Lesson 4: Production.
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Lesson 2 of 5 within section Lesson 4: Production.
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Safety & Professional Protocol
Lesson 3 of 5 within section Lesson 4: Production.
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Collaboration & Performance
Lesson 4 of 5 within section Lesson 4: Production.
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Lesson 5 of 5 within section Lesson 4: Production.
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Lesson 5: Post-Distribution
Lesson 1 of 3 within section Lesson 5: Post-Distribution.
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Lesson 2 of 3 within section Lesson 5: Post-Distribution.
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Lesson 3 of 3 within section Lesson 5: Post-Distribution.
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Final Exam
Film Industry 101 – The Business of Making Movies Final Exam
Lesson 1 of 1 within section Final Exam.
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