The Nonfiction Studio for MFA Film students provides a laboratory for examining the idea of nonfiction and viewer perceptions of reality in relation to recorded and constructed images, documentary work, and the changing social context of moving images. While specific section topics will vary, all sections study a range of approaches to documentary development and directing as well as new methods of non-fiction filmmaking made possible by advances in digital and online technology. These may include participatory, modular and transmedia approaches to nonfiction work.
Through the production of three SHORT non-fiction projects and one final 10-minute piece, REQUIRED viewings of non-fiction/documentary films, readings, lectures, and in-class discussions, this course prepares students for a critical and creative role in non-fiction/documentary media production. Important concepts explored throughout the course pertaining to non-fiction filmmaking authorship and voyeurism (i.e., tragedy/poverty porn), decolonization in the documentary film industry, scripted realities, subjective and objective truth-telling, interview types and styles, cutting truths (i.e., editing non-fiction interviews, ethical cutting), non-linear storytelling, personal as political, and interactive or installation documentaries. Skills developed and improved upon in this course
include sound story/world-building, visual style, editing rhythm and writing in post, directing the documentary (best practices), working with crews, research and development, interviewing, voice over, clearance and copyright, legal and release forms, funding and reviewing other technical aspects of non-fiction filmmaking.
- Instructor: Jon Ayon Alonso