Do I need to buy any specific software for storyboarding or pre-visualization?

No. We will primarily use the highly accessible and free app Previs Pro for all hands-on planning and shot list exercises. The focus of the Masterclass is on teaching the principles of visual storytelling and cinematic staging that are transferable to any software.

Will the class cover directing actors who have varying levels of experience?

Yes. We dedicate a segment to the practical psychology of working with actors, covering techniques for both running professional rehearsals with experienced talent and giving clear, encouraging direction to newcomers or non-professional actors.

How will this class help me direct a crew if I'm a first-time director?

We focus on the director's primary communication tools: the Shot List and the Blocking Diagram. Mastering these documents, which we will create hands-on, gives you the confidence to communicate your vision clearly to your Director of Photography (DP) and Assistant Director (AD)

Is the Masterclass recorded for later review?

No. To maintain a private, focused, and secure learning environment, the Masterclass is not recorded. Attendance is live only, making the personalized coaching you receive exclusive to the session. However, you will receive comprehensive class notes and a curated resource guide after the class.

Directing Masterclass: Lead, Visualize & Create

By Pitch to Screen®

Online event

Multiple dates

Overview

Master the skills to lead a cast and crew and translate your script into a compelling cinematic story.

This intensive 3-hour Masterclass demystifies the director's process, focusing on translating a script's themes into clear visual and audio choices. It is designed for filmmakers, producers, and writers who need to lead a cast and crew effectively and articulate their artistic vision.

Key Details

Location: Online via Zoom
Class Level: Suitable for all levels
Age Requirements: 18+
Average Class Size: Max 5 participants

About the Instructor

Instructor: Al Hallak (LinkedIn Profile)

With 10+ years of industry experience in LA & NYC and a background teaching at major institutions, Al offers practical advice and implements solutions on key film and media production challenges.

Why Take This Masterclass

Visual Command: Learn to use camera movement, composition, and lens choice to drive emotional subtext and narrative intent.
Actor Collaboration: Master techniques for effective script analysis, blocking, and communication with actors to achieve authentic performances.
Pre-Visualization: Develop a comprehensive, production-ready shot list and storyboard using accessible digital tools.
Set Leadership: Gain confidence in leading a set, collaborating with the Director of Photography (DP), and making high-stakes creative decisions under pressure.
Next-Gen Pre-Vis: Learn to use AI and virtual production concepts to rapidly pre-visualize complex camera movements and visually test scenes before stepping on set.

Practical Application

Hands-On Practice: Participants will use a provided script to create a Director's Shot List and block a short scene using Previs Pro during the session.
Tool Focus: Focus on Previs Pro for visual planning, while discussing how to manage these assets for collaboration with a DP and crew, using techniques transferable to major production departments.
Instructor Feedback: Get personalized, actionable advice on your scene blocking choices and communication style.
Resources Included: Participants receive a PDF resource pack with sample Director's Shot Lists, actor communication guides, and rehearsal best practices.

Optional Certificate Track: This class is one of four in the Pitch to Screen® Masterclass Series. Complete the full sequence (Writing, Producing, Directing, and Editing) and you’ll earn our Masterclass Certificate in Film & Media Production, a recognized credential that showcases your comprehensive, industry-ready skill set.

Category: Film & Media, Film

Good to know

Highlights

3 hours
Online

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 1 day before event

Location

Online event

Agenda

Introduction: The Director’s Roadmap

Setting the Masterclass goals and reviewing the three phases of directing: Pre-production (Planning), Production (Execution), and Post-production (Guiding the Edit).

Visual Language & Blocking

Deep dive into cinematic language: how camera angle, composition, and blocking create meaning. Hands-on exercises in analyzing a scene for subtext and determining the emotional camera placement.

Pre-Visualization & Tool Mastery

Learning the essential pre-production steps: creating a Director's Take, developing a shot list, and using storyboards/pre-vis. We will use Previs Pro to plan the visual strategy for a specific scene.

Frequently asked questions

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Pitch to Screen®

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