Cinema Simplified

From Story Idea to Final Screening…

Your Gentle Introduction To Filmmaking

Start Your Filmmaking Journey Today

Welcome to Cinema Simplified—a series of concise, easy-to-follow workshops designed to gently introduce filmmaking to participants of all ages. The workshops are led by Fred Thorsen, an award-winning filmmaker and feature film editor who has taught these workshops to well over 1,000 participants since 2009.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or just interested in how movies are made, these engaging online workshops provide a welcoming environment to help you overcome any hesitation and start your filmmaking journey with confidence.

After spending the last two years in film school, I wasn't sure how much new, helpful information I would learn during this program. But you are genuinely the best teacher I've ever had (no shade to any of the teachers, but I learned more from you in six weeks than I did from them in two years).

- Sophia

The Workshops: A Curated, Affordable Film School

Who Are These For? Anyone! Whether you’re a new filmmaker unsure where to begin, or a mature learner (the “Grey Wave”!) who wants to write a screenplay, improve your photography, or even make a film, these conversational, easy-to-understand workshops are for you.

What The Workshops Are: Short, engaging and informative introductions to all aspects of filmmaking, no more than an hour or two each, depending on the topic. We meet on online (for international audiences) or in person (for local, customized workshops). The workshops are self-contained: join one, a few, or all!

What They Are Not: These are not long, intensive online courses requiring a massive time commitment; rather, they are interactive, instructional conversations designed to demystify filmmaking and inspire the filmmaker within—whether you want to make a 10 second photo essay, or write and direct your own feature film. They are detailed and informative, but not overwhelming.

How It Works: Join any of the regularly scheduled online workshops (they repeat throughout the year), and come away with knowledge, inspiration, resources and access to the class recordings; or, request a custom workshop (one on one, private groups, etc). Just reach out directly or via the contact form with any questions!

Now onto the workshops!...

Mac Basics

Unravel the mysteries of the Macintosh computer, making it accessible and user-friendly for novices and new users alike.

Self-Teaching Resources

Embrace self-teaching through a curated overview of amazing resources which prove that filmmaking does not require film school.

I had such an amazing time, and I'm so grateful… it legitimately changed my life. Once I left the program, I watched about a million hours of tutorials on Youtube and Lynda.com, and within a few weeks, had been offered the position of Digital Marketing Manager for a building supplies manufacturing company in the States. I've been working for them for 9 months now, editing videos for their Youtube and running their projects and social media. I've also been working as a freelance editor on the side, using skills I never would’ve known I had if it wasn't for [the workshops]. This has given me the opportunity to work full-time from home, while still pursuing acting and not having to give up on my creative endeavours.

- Maegan

Storytelling

Does the idea of even starting a screenplay seem almost impossible? Here we demystify story structure by simplifying all those screenwriting courses and books which often overwhelm new writers. Embrace the power of your unique voice and stories, and embark on your screenwriting odyssey with clarity and purpose.

Scriptwriting

Once you have a story to tell, a properly formatted screenplay is essential. We clarify and demystify the screenplay format, making it accessible to writers of all levels.

What Does A Producer Actually Do?

Learn about the (incredible) responsibilities of a producer, and the process by which they might raise interest in a film. As an aspiring filmmaker, learn how to support your producer; for example, by creating visuals to generate interest in your project, or by being aware of what the producer needs to deliver.

"I am creating videos for a local business, a skill I had no prior knowledge! You helped me gain new skills, explore my creativity and discover new passions. It's an amazing program and I am so grateful I got to be a part of it."

- Abby

Pre-Production: Planning & Preparing

Learn what a script breakdown looks like, and how to do it. Learn about the many software options out there. Whether you’re making a short film or a feature, these are extremely useful skills for planning your production.

Production: The Shoot

Learn about different roles on set, and interesting, important production details such as the proper use of (and reason for) the clapperboard, and how it connects with the edit suite.

The Image: Cinematic Visuals

What is a “cinematic" image? Why is there a “24 fps” option on your phone? In this workshop we look at a timeline of the development of cinema, and how understanding film history can elevate your visuals, whether making a client video on your phone, or a feature film.

The Image: Photography Simplified

Master the basics of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture in our workshop to elevate your photography. Understanding these core concepts will help you create more cinematic and visually compelling images.

Before I had no experience or any idea of what I wanted to do with my future. After I’m on my way to starting a career as a film editor.

- Connor

Lighting

Learn simple techniques for improving your lighting for both photography, videography, and cinematography. Discover astonishing digital tools that enable you to practice lighting—without lights!

Sound

Discover the underappreciated art of sound recording for film. Gain a newfound respect for this craft and learn techniques to enhance the audio quality of your projects.

Post-Production: Editing

More and more, editing as a storytelling skill is something everyone needs to be able to do. In this class we learn how to use Final Cut Pro X (and look at other editing platforms). Discover how easy it has become to create your own sophisticated films.

Today I am working as an editor full-time, and I am as happy as I can be.

It's a bold statement but truly it changed my life. I had no confidence in myself or my abilities and my depression and anxiety had me struggling to get out of bed. With no idea what I wanted to do with my life, feeling completely lost, they helped me find what it was that could bring joy to my life. They showed me how I have the ability to learn and teach myself, that I can explore and rely on myself. They helped me find the courage to keep trying when I often wanted to give up. It was a safe space to explore my ideas and their encouragement helped me believe in myself.

- Chancellor

Post-Production: The Assistant Editor

Unlock the essentials of editing by learning the crucial role of an assistant editor, providing hands-on experience and a unique pathway to mastering the craft.

Post-Production: Sample Scene Edit

Watch the editing of a sample scene from scratch, as we reveal the creative joys (and challenges) of the process, providing you valuable insights for filming your own scenes.

Post-Production: Finishing Touches

Explore the art of finishing a film as we explore essential techniques like color correction and sound mixing to ensure your project is polished and professional.

Other Interesting Things

We take a wide-ranging look at different subjects around filmmaking, such as micro-budget feature filmmaking, explore many ideas for making videos for clients, and look at different ideas for creating compelling visuals for your film proposals.

Contact Me

Phone:

1 (604) 803-6787

Email:

fredthorsen@mac.com