Quarter 1

Introductory/production/research weeks

During the introductory weeks, we introduce first-year students to the courses and study conditions at the Filmakademie. This includes an introduction to the technology, the organisational process of the projects, but also to basic communication strategies and the fundamentals of content.

During the production weeks, students are given an overview of the basics of film production.

The quarter ends with a research period of almost three weeks, during which the students deal with a person of their choice.

Quarter 2

Directing/cinematography 1

The second quarter is dedicated to the possibilities of visual storytelling, accompanied by a team of lecturers from the fields of directing and cinematography/camera.

As a basis for freelance artistic work later on, the main objective here is to learn the basics such as acting, a sense of rhythm and basic knowledge in the use of filmic means.

During the seminar, students develop, realise and analyse practice films (approx. 5 minutes in length) in intensive teamwork.

Quarter 3

Screenwriting

The theoretical foundations of screenwriting are taught in line with the motto WHAT'S THE STORY? In addition, the integrated acting classes give students an insight into the work of actors and actresses - and thus the opportunity to further develop their own writing.

Quarter 4

Experimental film

How do we understand a film? Does comprehensibility lead to banality? What creative means do we use to make ourselves understood?

In the last quarter of the year, students can realise animation, fiction or documentary practice films. The narrative-experimental projects are created in teamwork.

Specialisation

In the 2nd year of study, students concentrate on their enrolled specialisation, such as directing (fiction, documentary or advertising film), screenwriting, cinematography, editing or animation. In addition to the theoretical foundations, students deepen their specialised knowledge through practical project work.

At the end of the academic year, the resulting productions are presented to the public.

Directing 2 Fiction

The screenwriting development initiated in the winter semester is supplemented by discussions on camera resolution and technical production realisation. Lessons also focus intensively on staging techniques and acting.

Combined with interdisciplinary workshops, the realisation of the semester films is prepared in a practical manner. Approximately 15-minute short films are created in the fiction directing programme. The filming phase is in June and the presentation takes place at the end of the summer semester.

Directing 2 Documentary

Students specialising in documentary film design and produce a short film of approx. 20 minutes. The course teaches the basics of research, concept development and interview techniques. In a workshop together with students specialising in cinematography, film sound production & film sound design, and editing, students gain experience of documentary teamwork. Plenary discussions and individual talks with the lecturers accompany the development of the concepts. Filming starts in February and the finished short films are presented at the end of the academic year in July.

Directing 2 Advertising

The course provides an insight into all the processes involved in producing an advertising film, from conception to copywriting, from acting to presentation requirements for a PPM (pre-production meeting). Plenary discussions and individual discussions with the lecturers accompany the development of the concepts. In advertising film directing, students realise classic commercials or branded entertainment formats on digital material, which are presented at the end of the academic year.

Directing 2 Animation

The basics of animation are taught in the form of seminars and workshops. Personal project experience is also an important part of teaching in Animation 2. In addition, active participation in lessons and collaboration in the workshops and seminars is expected. A highlight of the 2nd year of study is the set extension workshop, which is filmed in the Albrecht Ade Studio using an LED wall.

Screenwriting 2

The teaching of various film structures, such as the hero's journey, episodic structure or plot-orientated/character-orientated storytelling, is at the forefront of the 2nd year of study. The psychology of various characters is analysed. Using film examples, recurring myths in film are examined and archaic basic stories are identified. One focus is on the development of the scene. The objective of the course is to create an image treatment for a feature-length film.

Cinematography 2

In addition to the theoretical basics of lighting, image dramaturgy and cinematography, exemplary film analyses and work reports, students gain experience in practical workshops, including on original motifs. The actor in their space, portrait and acting lighting complement the teaching in the fiction area.

Both fiction and documentary camera work are tried and tested during the semester projects.

Editing 2

Students learn editing in theory and practice. The presentation and analysis of films, scenes and excerpts is obligatory in the course. The dramaturgical and rhythmic basics of editing are taught just as extensively as working with different editing systems, e.g., Avid and Premiere.

Practical work on student film productions complements the theoretical training.

The mobility year

After the second year of study, students have the opportunity of taking the time for a so-called mobility year. During this time, students are given time off to enrich their studies with individual experiences abroad.

There are opportunities for semesters abroad, workshops, work placements and individual organisation, for example for research purposes. Many programmes are co-financed by external partners and foundations, so that the range is constantly evolving and is adapted to the funding opportunities and needs of the students.

The International Office also acquires a number of scholarships and bursaries to cushion the financial burden of a stay abroad.