FILM 3394 Documentary Film Production
This advanced filmmaking course focuses on student production of short-form documentary films. Modeled after industry-standard techniques in non-fiction filmmaking, students embark on progressive, hands-on learning of the various components required in producing an 8-10 minute documentary. In a supportive and collaborative environment, students explore, define, and refine their own cinematic voices; screen and analyze documentary films; research and develop a written proposal for their film project; complete technical workshops to help refine production skills; learn and apply the technical, aesthetic, ethical, and historical components related to contemporary documentary films; and work to complete and present a final film.
Course overview
- Department
- Film
- School
- MCAS
- Credits
- 3
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Offered
- Periodically in the Spring
Requirements fulfilled
Course evaluations
- Course rating
- 4.27 / 5 · Very Good
- Instructor rating
- 4.20 / 5 · Very Good
- Terms evaluated
- 3
| Term | Instructor | Course overall | Instructor overall | Well organized | Clear learning objectives | Intellectually challenging | Helpful assignments | Applicable beyond course | Attendance necessary | Weekly effort | Responses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | Michael Rossi | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4–6 hrs/week | 5 of 7 |
| Spring 2025 | Michael Rossi | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 7–9 hrs/week | 6 of 9 |
| Spring 2023 | Michael Rossi | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 1–3 hrs/week | 4 of 6 |