MA/Postgraduate Diploma (Production and Direction)

The programme offers advanced training in filmmaking integrated with courses in film
history and analysis and is designed to give students a thorough understanding of
the filmmaking process from both a professional and a critical perspective. Film criticism
comprises approximately half of the course, with the rest of the time devoted to
production practice and hands-on filmmaking experience. 

The Huston School hosts an extensive range of special events and guest seminars during the year. Visitors since 2003 have included: Gabriel Byrne, Seamus McGarvey, Fionnula Flanagan, James Cromwell, John Boorman, Roddy Doyle, Colin MacCabe, Laura Mulvey, Howard Rodman, Mike Figgis, Peter Sheridan, Liz Gill, Paddy Breathnach,Alan Gilsenan, and others.

Production Practice module covers Camera, Editing, Production, Direction, and Sound. In the first semester, students take part in directing workshops where they learn techniques such as blocking actors for camera. These are taught as hands-on exercises where all students block and shoot a scene from a feature film as a workshop exercise. Academic modules include Creative Documentary, Imaginative Reponses, and Theory of Film Practice. These classes involve regular screenings, discussion, and analysis. In the second semester, students realise two short films, collaborating with teams from the MA (Public Advocacy) on one of them, and should be prepared to work flexibly in the various roles involved in the production process.