Coastal Film Academy

Pre-Production

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Production

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Post-Production

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Directing

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Cinematography

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Distribution

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Become Film Friendly

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Join us to grow your skill set in the within the Industry!

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Pre-Production • Production • Post-Production • Directing • Cinematography • Distribution • Become Film Friendly • Join us to grow your skill set in the within the Industry! •

FilmCraft Essentials • 8-Week Filmmaking Program

Overview

FilmCraft Essentials is an immersive 8-week program designed to provide filmmakers with a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process from concept to distribution. filmmakers will develop skills in world-building, character development, screenwriting, producing, casting, directing, cinematography, and pitching.

Hands-On Experience

Each session includes a film craft workshop where filmmakers will build upon previous lessons and apply their knowledge in real-time. At the end of the course, filmmakers will pitch their film projects as part of their capstone experience. The winning project will have the opportunity to be co-funded by Golden Isles Film and showcased at the Golden Isles Film Festival within two festival cycles following course completion.

Coastal Film Academy FAQ

    • Applications must be submitted through this website.

    • The deadline for Fall 2025 applications is 12:00 AM eastern time on Monday, June 23, 2025.

  • No prior filmmaking experience is required, but all prospective participants must apply for an invitation to enroll. Submission of a portfolio or resume is encouraged but not mandatory.

    • Sessions are 2 hours long, held once per week.

    • The class schedule is TBD, with options for evenings or weekends.

    • Tuition: $590

    • Includes facility and technology fees, a meal/snack per session, and submission to the Golden Isles Film Festival for 365 days post-course.

    • Filmmakers must bring their own laptop or web-browser-capable tablet.

  • By the end of this course, filmmakers will be able to:

    • Craft a compelling logline

    • Complete a character profile

    • Identify and refine engaging dialogue

    • Format a professional screenplay

    • Break down a script for production

    • Organize and lead a casting call

    • Scout and secure film locations

    • Plan and manage a film shoot

    • Explain post-production processes

    • Pitch their film for distribution

  • The course is structured into five key phases:

    • Development: Crafting ideas, world-building, and structuring compelling narratives.

    • Pre-Production: Budgeting, scheduling, location scouting, and casting.

    • Production: Directing, cinematography, and on-set operations.

    • Post-Production: Editing, sound design, and color grading.

    • Distribution: Film festivals, streaming platforms, and marketing strategies.

    Unlike standard film courses, FilmCraft Essentials extends beyond the three phase cycle of pre-production, production, and post-production by also covering the essential development and distribution phases.

    • The inaugural cohort will meet in-person in Brunswick, Georgia.

    • Three out of the eight sessions will be held on-location in Historic Downtown Brunswick.

    • Filmmakers will have access to workbooks, a WriterDuet screenwriting software license, and industry guest facilitators.

    • Scholarships: While formal scholarships are forthcoming, the end-of-course pitch competition, CRE8TIVE, offers the chance to win up to $5,000 toward producing a short film.

    • Housing Assistance: While Coastal Film Academy does not provide housing, discounted lodging options are available for filmmakers residing 45 miles or more away from Brunswick, GA city center.

Contact Information

For questions or assistance, reach out to AJ ALSTON at AJ@goldenislesfilmfestival.org.