National Certificate in Film Production

National Certificate in Film Production - Unit Overview

Trimester 1

NCFP101: Introduction to Film Production

This unit introduces the key elements of film & television production, the roles of a production crew, basic camera work, composition & framing, mise-en scene, montage, basic lighting, storytelling, film genres, film styles and basic editing techniques. Students examine non-verbal communications in silent cinema.

NCFP102: Introduction to Film Post Production

Theoretical and practical implications of the editing process in the production of a digital film are examined. Digital editing techniques, their history & aesthetics are explored. Montage as communication of a narrative is analysed and applied to a practical project.

NCFP103: Introduction to Digital Imaging

This unit introduces two dimensional (2D) digital image manipulation in the context of contemporary culture, media industries and the arts. Practical skills in graphic design are studied and the integration of digital images into musical works across the spectrum of creative media including CD, DVD, web and print media are applied.

NCFP104: Visual Effects (VFX)

Students are introduced to the practical techniques of ‘digital visual effects’ focusing on compositing within the film and television industry. Digital effects as a visual film language, animation techniques, and integration of live action footage are applied to analyse existing film and media creative works and to the production of creative work.

Trimester 2

NCFP201: Music Video Production

Music videos are examined to understand various cinematic techniques like computer generated images (CGI), animation and visual effects (VFX) as a means of communication and artistic expression within the music video art form. Students apply this knowledge to a practical project visualising rhythm, genre & style to create a marketing image for a musical group

NCFP202: Film Studies

This unit studies the semiotics of cinema i.e. the social, cultural, & political forces that have shaped the global film industry, charting the journey of film history from early cinema (ca. 1890 to 1945) to contemporary technologies. Key styles, genres and leading figures shaping film as a new language of expression and art form are examined.

NCFP203: Motion Graphics

Motion graphics as a form of communication in the creative media industries are analysed. A history of motion graphics within film production is applied to a number of creative projects.

NCFP204: Adaptations

This unit explores the reinterpretation of visual art, literature, and music in film. The author/producer/director matrix is examined in relation to film adaptations, examining key elements of character development and story. Students learn how to adapt existing works for the screen. Facets of story, script, camera, sound, understanding of editing and post-production techniques are examined in the creation of an adapted work.

Trimester 3

NCFP301: Creative Project

This unit is the culmination of the year’s film production studies in the realisation of a film project as a means of artistic expression. The project requires students to plan, manage and complete a creative work within a specialised area of film production, demonstrating technical & creative abilities, including a written report documenting the process.

NCFP302: Documentary Production

This unit examines documentary as an expressive film language. Analysis of documentary styles, pioneering films & filmmakers in the medium and investigative research strategies for uncovering stories ,common production and post-production techniques are explored.

NCFP303: The Role of Producers & Directors

This unit explores all facets of film and television production from concept to creation, particularly: funding, above-the-line and below-the-line marketing, research, analysis, budgeting and scheduling, team management and building, distribution and the markets. Furthermore the various roles and functions of producers and directors are examined by studying a selection of successful people who have made major contributions in and through their specialized fields. From these respected figures, students are encouraged to think critically about their own strengths and weaknesses and to develop strategies for self-development.

NCFP304: Advanced Film Post Production

This unit aims to further develop and expand upon students understanding of the seemingly invisible art of filmmaking, namely editing and post production. Students will critically analyse a variety of works identifying common editing styles that are implemented for various types of moving picture. Further theoretical concepts are introduced and students will examine a variety of advanced post-production techniques. Particular emphasis will be placed on professional workflow and methodologies, encouraging students to develop a highly evolved technical and creative sense of editing and post production techniques.

Please make a note of the following information for class times during the first trimester of study at SAE Cape Town for the May 2010 intake of film students.

Due to scheduling adjustments we have had to make due to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, classes for your 1st trimester will take place from 16:30 - 19:30 and not 13:00 - 16:00, as advertised.

From the commencement of your 2nd trimester, your class times will revert to 13:00 - 16:00 for the remainder of your curriculum.

If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact Vicki Davids.