Documentary Master Classes
Documentary Proposal Writing and Fundraising: This class is designed to help you create an effective proposal package that will enable you to raise money for your documentary. The class will take you step by step through the proposal process, beginning with clearly defining your story, writing a treatment, creating a budget, designing an innovative distribution strategy and developing your ability to pitch your film with confidence. The class will be limited to six students so each participant will have ample time to workshop their materials in the context of a nurturing and supportive community of their peers. The class meets for three hours in the evening or on a weekend day for five consecutive weeks. Cost of the class: $395
The Craft of the Documentary Film: Each week we will learn about and discuss a key element of the filmmaking craft—such as conducting interviews, developing characters, and documentary cinematography—and look at clips from classic and recent documentaries to illustrate the brilliant ways that other filmmakers have accomplished their goals. Each class will culminate with an assignment to make a short video utilizing the tools we have discussed. We will then spend the first hour of the following class sharing and discussing our assignment videos. You will finish the course with a body of work, a new–found confidence and pride in your filmmaking skills, and a group of peers upon whom you can rely to help you make your next film. The class meets for three hours in the evening or on a weekend day for six consecutive weeks. Access to your own video camera required. Cost of the class: $495
What students are saying about the Proposal & Fundraising Class:
“Story, story, story! Jonathan helps you pinpoint your story because without a story you don't have a film. His proposal writing and fundraising class is one of the best I've ever taken.” –Joyce G.
“This intimate, hands-on and nurturing class gave me the needed push to tackle the daunting task of funding documentary films. Thanks, J!” –Sheila H.
“Jonathan helped pull me out of the morass of details to get me focused on what to say and how to say it. A safe place to exchange and improve ideas.” –Daniel K.
“For a first time filmmaker, Jonathan’s class is an invaluable way to jump start inspiration and bring much-needed focus to the process.” –Dennis L.
What students are saying about the Craft of the Documentary Class:
“Thank you for opening my creative world beyond my expectations. Your class challenged me and helped make my vision even stronger. Thank you for believing in me and guiding me through this process. You have made a great and positive difference to my life.” –Alissa H.
“I so admire your extensive knowledge of filmmaking and the sensitivity and understanding you afforded to each person who attended your class. Everyone came away from your workshop with fresh ideas for staying focused and organized during the production process, as well as a renewed belief in themselves as documentary producers.” –Melissa C.
“It gave me a sense of security that I could do a more complicated documentary and that I wouldn’t get lost in the process.” –Leah S.
“You did an excellent job introducing the nuances and complexities of storytelling and explained the concepts in a fun and friendly manner.” –Thomas B.
“The class exceeded my expectations because it was intense, it had abundant information, and the class dynamic was wonderful.” –Nora L.
To sign up for the next class, email me at:
