2 Days Later Film Workshops 2007

In 2006, thanks to support from the UK Film Council via Screen South, a programme of free workshops was introduced to 2 Days Later. In keeping with the aim of encouraging new and emerging talent, the workshops were a comprehensive introduction to the basic skills of filmmaking.

This year, funding from Screen South allowed a series of four one-day workshops to take place, with venue and equipment very kindly donated by the Digital Media Department at the Broadstairs campus of Canterbury Christ Church University.

Facilitated by Mick and Chris – both established filmmakers - of Beeping Bush Ltd, participants view some of the previous years’ entries – some successful, others less so – to explore what they themselves should be aiming for. Most participants already have a good idea of where they’d like to film and what they have to work with, and this is their opportunity to pick up some practical advice on what works and what doesn’t.

This is followed by a series of demonstrations: on how the camera works, how to frame your shot, how to light, how to achieve good sound, and the importance of storyboarding. Some participants bring along the equipment they will be using to shoot their mini horror masterpiece and are so able to discover how to get the best from it.

After lunch, it’s time to put all the theory into practice as the group devises a very short narrative, usually with Chris taking the acting honours. Both interior and exterior locations are encouraged, as is a variety of camera shots and angles plus an awareness of in-camera editing. Today’s shoot has the added challenge of syncing sound and editing when you have over-enthusiastic and very noisy automatic sliding doors!

The filmmakers then take a look at and appraise their work, learning from their mistakes and successes, and then round off the day with a question and answer session.

Here’s what some of the participants had to say:

“I cannot believe that this is free because this is so superior to others I’ve attended and paid £50 for. I learned so much even before lunch today that I would have paid £100 to attend this class. I have to compliment you on how you portray and convey practical skills; your demonstration on three-point lighting was brilliant! Physical demonstration is so important. I must say, I found today like a breath of fresh air – it was really wonderful, that’s all I can say.”

“Thanks so much for the Intro to Filmmaking class yesterday. It was fantastic ... I learned a lot! Haven't felt that jazzed about something arty and new since I lived in San Francisco! You could say your class was a cobweb clearer, which is a good thing. Hopefully we can make something decent for the competition.”

Competition Contact:

Mick Etherton / Chris Cordwell, Beeping Bush Ltd
Telephone: 01843 223800