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Unit of study_
CAEL5052: The Art of Documentary
2024 unit information
This unit immerses students in the theoretical, ethical and creative elements of nonfiction filmmaking. Exploring the evolution of documentary, from early newsreels and Cinema Verite to mockumentary, docu-drama and fact/fiction hybrids, this elective reveals the key techniques needed to take a documentary concept from page to screen. Through screenings, lectures and workshops, students learn how to research, script, shoot, edit, pitch and distribute a nonfiction film, and how to interview and direct non-actors: gaining an advanced conceptual and practical understanding of this timely and constantly evolving form.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Arts and Social Sciences
| Study level | Postgraduate |
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| Academic unit | Sydney College of the Arts |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. LO1 Conceptualise, plan and complete an industry-standard moving image based non-fiction project that engages with the contemporary media environment
- LO2. LO2 Critically analyse and problem solve through the documentary production process
- LO3. LO3 Use a range of creative and technical production skills, strategies and tools to create non-fiction screen-based works
- LO4. LO4 Critically understand a range of approaches to documentary practice and engage with related cultural and theoretical debates
- LO5. LO5 Use appropriate media and technologies to effectively gather information
- LO6. LO6 Critically evaluate information, aesthetics and narratives in an ethically and culturally sensitive manner
Unit availability
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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