Events & Programs

How does story telling in words differ creatively from story telling in films?   A Night at the Movies will compare excerpts from books and plays with scenes from the film versions of the literary works. Once a month scenes from a different and popular book/play and its film version will be featured and each selection will exemplify a different aspect of filmic story telling. Discover why films require their own creative conventions and how filmmakers employ visual and aural techniques to enhance and deepen the tale with as few words as possible. And to add to the enjoyment get the scoop on some of the behind-the-scenes history of the evening's film.

Following are the films we'll be exploring this quarter:

Thursday 25 March
Jaws: Creating suspense on screen through music and editing.

Tuesday 13 April
Schindler's List: Establishing a documentary feel through the use of black and white film & historical details.

Tuesday 11 May
City of God: Making a story set in the slums of Rio de Jainero have universal appeal.

This series will meet once a month, continuing through June 2010.   No RSVP required, just drop on in and join us for a Night at the Movies.

About Judith Merians
Judith Merians has been an entertainment attorney and business executive for the Hollywood Studios and independent production companies for 27 years.  She has taught the business, finance, and legal aspects of filmmaking at the University of California Los Angeles Extension Film School for 12 years and in film schools around the world and has spoken at many film conferences including the Cannes Film Festival and the American Film Market seminars.  She is currently a consultant to independent filmmakers and film school professor.