CURRENT COURSES
UCLA (EXTENSION) - MAKING WEBISODES
For the low-budget filmmaker or aspiring producer, this hands-on course explores the creative and logistic challenges of writing, producing and filming a successful narrative episodic television series. You work individually or in groups to write, produce, and edit a 3-5-minute webisode for Internet distribution. Instruction focuses on the building blocks of story development, producing, casting and directing, post-production elements involved with editing and audio, and the distribution and monetization of webisodes on various sites, including You Tube. All produced pilots are webcast. Refined audio and video equipment is not necessary--a basic digital camera or phone and built-in mic are acceptable.
YOU'VE PROBABLY DATED MY MOM
Directed by Amy Coughlin
Prodcued by Catherine Roscart
"Pirooz is an incredible wealth of knowledge and the ideal resource for anyone hoping to produce high quality web content. His class leads you through every step of the development, production and marketing processes while offering insider tips and tricks that are sure to help your finished project stand out. This is the perfect class for experienced film makers and novices alike!"
--Amy Coughlin, Director
UCLA (EXTENSION) - MAKING YOUR FIRST SHORT FILM (ONLINE)
Always wanted to make your own short film and thought you had no experience and no money? In this class, get started using your own pocket camera, iPhone, or whatever similar tool you have at your disposal. You learn how to write, produce, direct, and edit a 3-5-minute short fiction film. Emphasis is placed on maximizing the on-screen value of the project using available resources. The first part of the class is devoted to the pre-production process, highlighting the role of the story, and provides an overview of affordable shooting equipment and editing technologies. You then develop and write your project, which is filmed outside of class. Instruction includes a primer on the fundamentals of shooting and directing actors, as well as the basics of editing and outputting the projects to DVD. The completed films are screened and discussed during at the last class. For technical requirements click here.
FLIP AND GLIB AND THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Created by Richard Martin Hirsch
Pirooz has such a wonderful understanding of the wide world of web series. His knowledge of development, production, and distribution is unmatched by any other teacher out there. He has cultivated a formula that is sure to help any film maker no matter where they stand on the spectrum of creation from beginner to professional. His tricks of the trade are sure to help foster the career of anyone aspiring to work in show business.
--Catherine Roscart, Producer