Voice Acting: Build Your First Reel (16+)

Voiceover is everywhere! In addition to learning about the multi-faceted voiceover industry, in this class we will explore what makes voiceover performances compelling. We will also begin developing the tools necessary to execute them. Topics will include script analysis and interpretation, inflection, pacing, context, vocal quality, and finding your signature sound. Students will get to perform both commercial and narration copy in a classroom setting as well as in our studio. Students will leave the class with a short starter reel composed of sample commercials, TV Show narration, radio copy, and more! (Class Size 6 – 8)

 

Improv One Class Sampler (16+)

Curious about improv? Join our one-day Improv Sampler to experience the fundamentals of spontaneous creativity! Through fun games and exercises, you’ll learn to listen, agree, and collaborate with your fellow participants. No experience needed—just come with an open mind and a desire to have fun! Our supportive instructor will guide you as you create characters, build scenes, and explore your creativity in a safe and friendly environment. It’s a perfect opportunity to dip your toes into the world of improv before committing to a class. (Class size: 8 – 12)

 

“This class was great! It was fun, comprehensive and incredibly loose. Luke is an incredible instructor. I’ll definitely be back!” -Adult Improv Student

Improv 1 (16+)

The fundamentals of improvisation are the fundamentals of life. Listening, agreeing, forwarding action, taking care of your partner and so much more! You’ll be introduced to those lessons as you play games as well as create characters and scenes using a variety of improv and creativity exercises. You can’t do anything wrong, no experience necessary! Number one rule is to have fun! (Class size: 8 – 10)

 

“Concise, thoughtful, and inviting, this has to be one of the most valuable classes I have taken!” Sean, Improv 1 Student

Improv II: Showcase (16+) – Sold Out

Improv II builds on the fundamentals in Improv 1, focusing more on scene work, theatrical performance, and longer-form games. This class continues to encourage honest, grounded scene work while introducing new acting, clowning, and improvisational techniques. This is an expansion of our level 1 Improv and includes a live performance for family and friends on the last day of the class. The number one rule, as always, is to have fun! Previous improv experience required.

This class ends in a live performance for your family + friends! (Class size: 8 – 10)

 

“This class was great! It was fun, comprehensive and incredibly loose. Luke is an incredible instructor and channels the best out of us week after week. I’ll definitely be back!” Andy, Improv II student

Screenwriting 1 (16+)

Ever wonder what it takes to transform your ideas into captivating screenplays? Join our screenwriting course and delve into the art of crafting compelling stories. Explore the fundamentals—from format to techniques and story structure—while writing your own screenplay. Uncover the magic behind successful screenplays, drawing inspiration to shape your narratives for film and television. Gain valuable feedback from both peers and your instructor as you bring your ideas to life on the page. No prior screenwriting experience is necessary; this course is tailored to establish a solid foundation for aspiring screenwriters. In a small class of 7-10, embark on a journey to turn your storytelling dreams into reality. Ready to unleash your creativity for the big screen? (Class Size: 7 – 10)

“Extremely well organized and practical. Best screenwriting class I have ever taken.” -Adult Student Screenwriting 1

Screenwriting II (16+)

Ready to take your screenwriting skills to the next level? In Screenwriting II, you’ll refine your craft and delve deeper into advanced storytelling techniques. This course builds on the fundamentals learned in Screenwriting 1, focusing on character development, dialogue, subtext, and advanced plot structures.
Engage in in-depth analysis of professional screenplays to uncover the intricacies of successful screenwriting. Participate in collaborative workshops where you’ll receive and provide constructive feedback, honing your ability to critique and improve your work and that of your peers. (Class Size: 7 – 10)

“This medium level in-person class with John was perfect. He is constructive in his critiques and very encouraging.” – Screenwriting II Student

Screenwriters Lab: With Actor Table Read (16+) – Sold Out

Application Only / Hybrid

Ready to dig deeper into your screenplay? Screenwriters Lab is designed for committed writers who are serious about writing and improving their scripts, whether they’re just beginning or already in progress. In each session, you’ll share portions of your screenplay and receive insightful feedback from peers and expert guidance from our instructor. This lab provides structure, accountability, and a supportive environment to help you shape, edit, and refine a polished script, preparing you for future production, film festivals, or personal creative goals.

This Winter Screenwriter’s lab will include an in-person final class where local actors will perform a table read of student screenplays. Invite your family and friends for this live performance! (Up to 12 pages from each screenplay can be performed.)

Screenwriting I + 2 recommended. (Class size 6-8)

“Screenwriter’s Lab is the highlight of my week – I always look forward to it.” Screenwriter’s Lab student

Editing with Premiere Pro 1

Great editing skills can really make a film come alive! In this hands-on beginner workshop, students will learn the interface, controls, and features of the industry-standard software, Adobe Premiere Pro. Our instructors will teach you how to log footage, create a rough cut, add titles and credits, implement transitions, work with sound, and even play with color. Students will also begin to learn the craft and language of editing. (Class size: 8-12)

Editing with Premiere Pro 2

Great editing skills can really make a film come alive! In this hands-on intermediate workshop, students will expand on their knowledge of Adobe Premiere Pro learning more advanced skills such as: chromakey, advanced key framing, basic color grading and more. Experience is required. Students enrolling in this class should have taken Editing with Premiere Pro 1, or have previous experience with premiere. (Class size: 8-12)

 

Podcast Like a Pro (15+)

In this course learn all of the many steps needed to conceptualize, plan, record, edit, and publish a podcast. Get comfortable on the mic recording mini-podcasts of your own with classmates! Learn how to edit those recordings with Audacity: adding in music and sound effects, and cutting out dead air or mistakes. This class sets you up with the skills needed to start a Podcast of your own! (Class size: 7-12)

Development Workshop (18+)

You’ve written your script, now what?!? Unlock the path to bringing your screenplays from the page to the producer’s table in this immersive two-part seminar on creative development in the film and television industry. This course delves into the essentials of loglines, pitch decks, and pitching strategies, offering you the tools to confidently present your ideas to industry professionals. You’ll gain a solid understanding of the development process for both Hollywood and Indie projects. With hands-on guidance and practical exercises, this class gives you the knowledge and confidence to develop the materials needed to pitch your script.

Screenwriting experience is required.

Alex Schwarm is a creative producer and development executive specializing in scripted film and television. He has shepherded numerous acclaimed series from development through production, including Peabody Award Winners RECTIFY and DEUTSCHLAND 83, as well as John Le Carré’s THE LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL.

 

MEMBERS: Log in to receive a MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
(Please Note: Discount applies to $95 Film Lover+
membership level or higher)

Don’t see the class you want? Help us make it happen: Film Academy Class Request

For More Information Contact: Education@MontclairFilm.org