Foundations of Filmmaking (VIRTUAL)
Foundations of Filmmaking provides foundational knowledge about working conditions, jobs, and professional expectations in film and television. Students will learn industry-specific terminology and processes related to above- and below-the-line positions, how a creative project moves from script to screen, and how to start and build a film or television career. With an emphasis on industry standards, practices and procedures, on-set safety protocols, and the realities of the job market, students will be prepared to take further coursework in any number of more focused areas covered in this course. Want to know how a project is made from start to finish? This is the course for you.
This class is perfect for anyone with a passion for film and television who is eager to delve into the industry. Whether you are a creative enthusiast, aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about the world of entertainment, Foundation of Filmmaking is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to embark on a rewarding career. It is an ideal starting point for individuals looking to grasp industry-specific terminology, understand the script-to-screen process, and prepare themselves for various roles within the dynamic film and television field.
Please note: students do have graded assignments, assessments, and projects and will receive a final grade in this course. Grades demonstrate a student’s ability to apply their understanding and mastery of concepts taught in this course. Trilith Institute instructors have a wealth of knowledge as they come with expertise in the film and entertainment industry
Course Note: No Prerequisite Required.
WHAT YOU WILL WALK AWAY WITH
- Fundamental knowledge about working conditions, jobs, and professional expectations in film and television.
- Eligibility to apply for Trilith Institute’s Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant.*
- 15% off Trilith Institute workshops for 6 months after course enrollment.
- Tour of Trilith Studios
*Those receiving a grade of 80 (B) or above in the course will receive a “Certificate of Completion”. Complete 3 of the Trilith Institute’s Professional Education Courses, and you will receive “Trilith Institute Outstanding Achievement in Film Arts.” In addition, if you have completed 3 courses and our Mastering Self-Marketing workshop, you will be eligible to submit an original project for consideration for our Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant, with a potential award of up to $10,000.
Questions? Check out our FAQ page.
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR: THOMAS HORTON
Thomas Horton is an experienced film professional with over a decade of diverse expertise spanningdevelopment, casting, producing and physical production. With a passion for filmmaking in his home in the Southeast, Thomas hopes to help foster a new era for Southern independent film through education.
After obtaining his MFA in Film and Television Production from the University of Southern California, Thomas worked in development, casting and producing for studios including Heyday Pictures, CBS Network and Paramount. A life-long desire to join the film community in the Southeast brought Thomas to Atlanta, where he began working in production on major motion pictures, many of which were filmed at Trilith. From 2019 to 2024, Thomas worked as an Assistant Production Coordinator on projects including Blue Beetle, The Conjuring 3, The Suicide Squad, Captain America: Brave New World.
Thomas is committed to creating opportunities for local writers, directors, and producers. He believes that fostering talent within Atlanta will lead not only to more work opportunities but also to more informed and innovative filmmaking that fully leverages the region’s unique resources and storytelling opportunities.
