Narrative Directing for Screen
Focus your creativity and vision in this immersive directing course. Acquire the tools necessary to bring your project vision to life on the screen.
This course is designed for aspiring directors seeking to master the intricate process of directing for short films. Through a blend of lectures, practical workshops, and hands-on exercises, participants will delve into the fundamental principles of storytelling, effective communication with actors, and the essentials of visual storytelling.
From script interpretation to character development, participants will learn how to weave compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Moreover, the course explores the intricacies of the director-actor collaboration process, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to elicit powerful performances on screen.
Through rehearsal techniques, on-set decision-making, and communication strategies, students will create a collaborative and supportive environment that empowers actors to deliver authentic, nuanced, and emotionally resonant performances. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the tools and confidence to bring impactful short film stories to life.
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
- This class will culminate in a series of student workshops wherein each student, utilizing professional and Trilith Institute student actors, will be given the opportunity to direct a scene in front of their peers and industry professional instructor.
- Eligibility to apply for Trilith Institute’s Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant.*
- 15% off Trilith Institute workshops for 6 months after course enrollment.
- A tour of Trilith Studios
Questions? Check out our FAQ page.
*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 the “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 the Course Creator: Lauren Petzke
Born in Austin, TX, Lauren fell in love with stories at a young age. Her passion first took the form of performing, leading her to college at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. After graduating, Lauren headed out to sunny Southern California where she performed in musicals with Moonlight Amphitheater and began acting in small independent films. This introduced her to a whole new world of possibilities.
She fell into Set Lighting and worked as an IATSE technician on films such as The Avengers, True Grit, Let Me In, and many others.
Lauren then tried her hand at directing, and her first 3-minute short film, “The Audition” won best comedy at the Santa Fe 3-Minute Film Festival. Galvanized, Lauren began assisting directors and producers and eventually landed as Julie Plec’s Producer and Development Exec. She continued to make short films and began her foray into professional directing with Legacies.
Lauren has since gone on to direct multiple episodes of Legacies, Roswell, and Sweet Magnolias on Netflix, as well as The Endgame, Walker, and Gotham Knights.
As a director, Lauren ascribes to have her work follow the 3 E’s – Effective, Efficient, and Effusive. Inclusive and communicative, Lauren loves to bring out the best in the cast and crew to create honest, dynamic visuals that elevate the story and bring the audience deeply into the world of the show.
On the side, she loves spending time with her daughter, husband, and their little French Bulldog. Hobbies include travel, cooking, long walks, yoga, and home remodels.
