Forum Posts

• Maura Nicolaita

  • 182 posts
  Posted in the topic Cinema Under the Stars: Roy H. Wagner, ASC, Live in San Diego This Friday! in the forum General Forum

  June 18, 2025 10:26 AM PDT

  Get ready for an unforgettable evening of film, creativity, and community! Cinema Under the Stars, presented by The Film Dispatch, is happening this Friday, June 20, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the University Club (750 B Street, Suite 3400, San Diego, CA 92101).
  
  One of the highlights of the night: legendary cinematographer Roy H. Wagner, ASC (named by Kodak as one of the “100 Top Cinematographers in the World” ) will be presenting his reel alongside the ASC reel at 6:50 PM.
  
  Roy will also be sharing ideas for future live and online workshops for students, and yes, he’ll be selling signed copies of his new book! The book takes readers behind the scenes of his incredible career, working on classics like A Nightmare on Elm Street 3, Quantum Leap, Beauty and the Beast, and many more.
  
  The event is packed with awesome programming:

  • Lighting diagrams + BTS clips from the ASC
  • Directing tips from Fredo Tovar (Aplus Filmz)
  • Post-production ad strategies with Ana Lucia Bustamante
  • Pitch sessions from up-and-coming filmmakers
  • A showcase of futuristic NFC “Magic Cards” tech
  • Signature cocktails, mocktails, great food, and plenty of networking opportunities

  If you’re a filmmaker, creative, or just love cinema, this is your chance to connect, learn, and be inspired. Don’t miss it!

  

  This event is happening on: Friday, June 20, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM​

• Maura Nicolaita

  • 182 posts
  Posted in the topic Heartfelt Thanks to Patrick Cady ASC and Thomas Bernardo in the forum Free Live Filmmaking Webinars

  June 10, 2025 9:02 AM PDT

  It’s not every day that a webinar brings both clarity and connection—but that’s exactly what happened during our most recent session in the StudentFilmmakers.com Webinar Series. We extend our deepest thanks to our special guests, Patrick Cady ASC and Thomas Bernardo, for leading such an honest, generous, and highly valuable learning experience during our live educational webinar, “How a Show Gets Developed.”

  

  In “How a Story Gets Developed,” Patrick and Tom shared an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what really happens after a show is sold. They walked us through how a writers’ room comes together, how stories are shaped into a full season, and what it’s like to step into that high-pressure, creative space once a production date is set. Whether you were brand new to TV writing or a seasoned indie creator, the session offered real-world insight, personal experiences, and practical takeaways you wouldn’t find in a textbook.

  Whether you’re just starting out in film and television or already deep in the trenches of production, this webinar delivered. From structure to story beats, from room dynamics to practical production wisdom, Patrick and Tom shared from the heart, from experience, and from the perspective of true educators.

  Patrick Cady ASC—an Emmy-nominated cinematographer and director—is known for bringing soul and purpose to the projects he touches. From Insecure and Bosch: Legacy to Rectify and Interrogation, his approach to storytelling is informed by both compassion and craft. Tom Bernardo—a seasoned producer and writer whose credits include Bosch, Bosch: Legacy, and The Lincoln Lawyer—has long been respected for his strength in narrative development and his ability to lead a room with both clarity and care.

  Throughout the live session, the energy was focused, electric, and warm. These two professionals did more than just talk shop—they opened a door. They gave viewers a look inside their process. And they made space for others to step into their own creative courage.

  The conversation was refreshingly grounded. Patrick and Tom answered questions directly from attendees, who submitted them in real time via the chat box. Whether you were curious about outlining a pilot, structuring a season arc, or navigating the politics of a writers’ room, their responses were thoughtful and actionable.

  We also want to extend gratitude to the StudentFilmmakers.com community who attended from all across the globe. Whether tuning in from Ireland, the Netherlands, or from right here in the States, your presence and participation made the session what it was. You asked excellent questions. You shared great energy. And you reminded us why these events matter so much.

  Scroll down to explore attendee testimonials—each one a reflection of how impactful and appreciated this session truly was.

  “This was one of the best episodes yet! TWO experts, plus shots of the script and note board! Terrific!”

  “Another great session. Patrick and Company provided invaluable insight to the Word to Television Scripting and Directing.”

  “Wonderful seminar! Much more like a class than just a seminar. Especially useful for me as I’m just starting to work with a new writer.”

  “Super helpful as a writer. Am excited to watch for the recording and make more notes on what was discussed today. Some very practical advise from both Tom and Patrick. I did not have time to read the script before the webinar but will work at reading it now. Thank you again for this amazing resource and enjoy the rest of your day,……..from a sunny Ireland !!!!”~Amy Tierney

  “Thank you for this webinar – I love the concept of virtual shadowing so that everyone can see the entire process! I think this was well done, offered a good deal of information and participants asked very good questions that enhanced our understanding of how a show is developed. Having visual examples is always a plus.”

  “The interactive, IRL presentations are gold!”

  “Such a great session. Patrick and Tom, I appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge so generously. Big thanks to the StudentFilmmakers.com team for putting this together!”

  “Really appreciated the insight from both Patrick and Tom. Felt like we got a real look inside the process. Thanks also to the staff for making it all run so smoothly.”

  “Very interesting. Thanks from The Netherlands!”

  “Informative and well organized.”

  “Loved it. There was so much information provided.”

  “Great, loved it!”

  “Very good. Keep them coming.”

  “This experience was great! Thank you.”

  “It was awesome! thank you so much!”

  “This was awesome. Loved hearing the real stories from the room. Thanks to Patrick, Tom, and everyone at StudentFilmmakers.com who made this happen.”

  “This was great. Really appreciated both Patrick and Thomas going through the script creation process step by step. Thank you!”

  “The script download really helped with what Patrick and Thomas were talking about.”

  “Excellent!”

  “Loved the class.”

  “Another excellent webinar! Thank you Jody, Maura and Kim!”

  As always, the team at StudentFilmmakers.com is committed to creating inclusive, industry-relevant learning opportunities for storytellers at every level. Our Virtual Shadowing and professional development series continues to bring working professionals into direct dialogue with creatives hungry to learn and grow.

  We believe in lifting the curtain—not just showing the finished product, but walking through the process, step by step. This webinar exemplified that. The script downloads, the shared screen breakdowns, the back-and-forth between Patrick and Tom—it all added up to an experience that many described as transformative.

  To Patrick and Tom: Thank You. Thank you for showing up with honesty, intelligence, and humility. Thank you for being so present with our attendees. And thank you for giving us a session that will continue to ripple outward in the form of stronger scripts, braver creatives, and more thoughtful filmmaking.

  If you missed the live webinar, “How a Show Gets Developed,” stay tuned for the upcoming recording and more events in the series. Sign up at StudentFilmmakers.com, and take your next step toward creative confidence with guidance from those who’ve walked the path.

  We look forward to seeing you again soon.

  Resources:

  www.studentfilmmakers.com
  href="https://www.hdproguide.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.hdproguide.com
  href="https://www.sportsvideotech.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.sportsvideotech.com

  Free Webinars:

  www.studentfilmmakers.com/livefilmmakingwebinars

• Maura Nicolaita

  • 182 posts
  Posted in the topic Editing for Impact: Crafting a Compelling Narrative in Post in the forum Free Live Filmmaking Webinars

  June 6, 2025 10:46 AM PDT

  Description

  Consent Agreement: By signing up for this webinar, you agree that your image, video, voice, and any interactions (such as chat messages, Q&A participation, or other contributions) may be recorded and used as part of both the Free Live Webinar and any Paid On-Demand Programming. By registering, you acknowledge and consent to the use of this content in promotional materials, educational content, and future paid programs without additional compensation or notification. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not proceed with registration.

  

  ______________________________________

  LIVE WEBINAR | MASTERCLASS

  Editing for Impact

  Crafting a Compelling Narrative in Post

  Taught by Multi-Emmy® Award-Winning Filmmaker Shane Stanley

  REGISTER ONLINE NOW:
  https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/product/live-webinar-editing-for-impact-shane-stanley/

  Date: Monday, September 8, 2025

  Time: 10:00am to 11:15am PST (Los Angeles Time Zone)

  Location: Online via Zoom

  REGISTRATION DETAILS

  • PRESALE: $29 Early Bird Price. Available Now through Friday, August 29, 2025
  • GENERAL REGISTRATION: $39. Available from Saturday, August 30 to Monday, September 8, 2025
  • ★ FREE for Premium Plus Members. (Not a member yet? Join today >> https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/membership-account/membership-levels/)

  Who Should Attend

  • Film students eager to learn the art of editing for storytelling.
  • Independent filmmakers looking to refine their post-production skills.
  • Aspiring editors or directors who want to better understand how editing shapes narrative and emotional impact.

  Overview

  Editing is where the magic of filmmaking truly comes together. In this webinar, you will learn the techniques and principles needed to craft a compelling narrative in post-production. Whether you are cutting a short film, feature, or documentary, this session will provide you with the tools to enhance your storytelling through editing choices that maximize emotional impact and narrative clarity.

  What You Will Learn

  • How to approach the editing process from a storytelling perspective.
  • Techniques for creating emotional resonance through pacing and rhythm.
  • The power of shot selection, transitions, and sound to elevate your narrative.
  • Strategies for structuring a film and maintaining clarity in a complex storyline.

  By the Time You Finish This Webinar, You Will Be Able To

  • Identify key moments in your footage that drive the narrative forward.
  • Edit with pacing and rhythm to build emotional engagement with the audience.
  • Use shot selection and transitions to enhance the mood and tone of your film.
  • Tackle challenges in post-production and turn raw footage into a polished final product.

  What Our Community Had to Say:

  “Shane Stanley & StudentFilmmakers.com bring it yet again! Invaluable real world craft from an established filmmaker. The stuff you don’t find in the books.”

  “I’ve been writing and producing documentary television (news, entertainment, studio and field) as well as promos, commercials and long format shows since 1980, shooting and lighting since 1999 and editing since 2004. Nevertheless, I watch these webinars… enjoy them… and learn from them. Keep up the great work!”

  “So glad I found Student Filmmakers. I have learned so much more about making films from them and Shane Stanley.”

  “Shane is always a pleasure to listen to, for his enthusiasm, candor, and wealth of experience and information.”

  “Shane is great at sharing tips to make us better filmmakers. I appreciate him immensely!”

  “I always get great tips when Shane does a webinar. I usually take notes and post them (using giant sticky notes) on my kitchen cabinets…”

  “The webinars are always interesting and instructive even for me who is not an English speaker and have difficulty following the lecture carefully. The lecturer’s very knowledgeable and good at explaining. I must thank you.”

  “Excellent information from Shane, as always.” —Tom Marshall

  “It’s always good to hear Shane willing to take time and talk shop. Thanks again for offering these.”

  “Shane has a lot of knowledge to share.”

  About Your Instructor and Mentor:

  https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-600x684.jpg 600w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-900x1026.jpg 900w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-1053x1200.jpg 1053w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-768x875.jpg 768w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-1347x1536.jpg 1347w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-1797x2048.jpg 1797w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-624x711.jpg 624w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker.jpg 1844w" alt="Shane Stanley, Multi-Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker" width="263" height="300" loading="lazy">

  SHANE STANLEY – Producer/Director

  • Two-time Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker (nominated four times)
  • Produced the #1 Box Office hit Gridiron Gang starring Dwayne Johnson
  • Director/Producer of Night Train, Hulu’s Longest Running #1 Hit
  • Director/Producer of Double Threat, Netflix #1 Global Hit
  • Consulting Producer for the #1 Cable TV Show “Rock of Love”
  • Best-selling author, recognized internationally for his film expertise
  • Winner of over two dozen prestigious international film & TV awards

  Shane Stanley is a multi-Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker and best-selling author who grew up in/around “the biz” in Hollywood. As a childhood actor he had appeared on-screen in over 100 projects with Hollywood legends which included June Lockhart, Lloyd Haynes, and David Arkin. By age ten, he was comfortably running an Arri 16mm camera and Moviola and fell in love with the filmmaking process. Along with his father, Lee Stanley, Shane produced The Desperate Passage Series. The docu-drama series ran on KTLA with world-wide syndication from 1988 to 1994, was nominated for 33 individual Emmy® Awards and won 13 statues. Two episodes of the series went on to become successful feature films. Gridiron Gang was acquired by Sony Pictures and became the #1 box office hit starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

  Shane served as Vice President of Sheen/Michaels Entertainment where he produced several motion pictures starring Marlon Brando, Mira Sorvino, Thomas Hayden Church, Donald Sutherland, Marisa Tomei, Sean Penn, John Travolta and Charlie and Martin Sheen. During that time, Shane made his directorial debut with his own screenplay, A Sight for Sore Eyes. The film was honored with the Special Jury Award at WorldFest Houston, won two Telly Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Film & Television, as well as winning top honors at the International Family Film Festival along with Walden Media’s The Chronicles of Narnia. It went on to win dozens of prestigious awards and was invited to screen at Cannes in 2005.

  Shane has also directed countless music videos, many which have aired on VH1’s Top 20 Video Countdown, including two that went #1 and another that made the network’s list of Best 100 Music Videos including “Go That Far” with Bret Michaels. The Michaels’ video was used for the television series Rock of Love, where Shane also served as a consulting producer. His other directing credits include Mistrust, starring two-time Golden Globe® winner Jane Seymour as well as Break Even with Tasya Teles, Steve Guttenberg, and Golden Globe® nominee, Joanna Pacula. In 2022, Shane produced and directed the action-comedy, Double Threat starring Matthew Lawrence and Dawn Olivieri (Yellowstone, 1883), which The New York Times listed on their Top 5-Action Movies to Stream Now and was the sole indie feature amongst Hollywood blockbusters on Amazon Prime’s “Top 10 in the US” list remaining there for two months, peaking at #4. The film has enjoyed similar success on Netflix’s world-wide charts, ranking #1 in 16 countries the week of its debut and remained on the platform’s Top 10 most watched film this summer.

  Shane’s action-thriller, Night Train, starring Danielle C. Ryan and Diora Baird premiered on HULU where it reached #1 on the platform and remained in the top spot for an astonishing four weeks. Night Train is the story of a single mom struggling to make ends meet as a Hollywood teamster who evades capture by a ruthless FBI Agent while running black market medical supplies in her legendary souped-up pickup truck. It also stars Joe Lando, Ivan Sergei, and Joseph D. Reitman.

  Currently, Shane is in post-production on Six Days in Evergreen a music-drama starring Dawn Olivieri, Penelope Ann Miller, A Martinez, and a star- studded cast which he produced, directed, and co-wrote. The film is presented by legendary producer, Mario Kassar (Terminator, Total Recall, Rambo, The Doors, Basic Instinct, Chaplin, LA Story) and will release later this year.

  Shane’s book, “What You Don’t Learn in Film School,” a best-seller earning a 4.5-star rating across the board was listed by CNN, FORBES, and BOOK AUTHORITY among the Best Filmmaking Books of All-Time, which covers filmmaking from concept to delivery. It has landed on required reading lists at several universities around the world and is endorsed by some of the most respected names in Hollywood including Producer, Neal H. Moritz, (Fast & Furious, S.W.A.T., 21 and 22 Jump Street) and Paul Williams, Oscar®, Golden Globe® and Grammy® Award Winner and Hall of Fame songwriter.

  In addition to his Emmy® Awards, Stanley has received 11 Telly Awards, 2 CINE Golden Eagles Awards, 5 Aurora Awards, 4 WorldFest Remi Awards, and 28 International Film Festival Awards. He has spoken at several prestigious film and art institutes around the country including The Screen Writers Expo, the world’s largest tradeshow for screenwriters, alongside Oliver Stone, Michael Goldenberg (Harry Potter franchise) and Adam Herz (American Pie) about the secrets of marketing to today’s youth. He is on several advisory boards for film schools and art programs across the country and is a contributing columnist for Student Filmmakers Magazine and NoFilmSchool.com as well as an instructor on Stage32.com, FilmCourage.com and IndieFilmHustle.com and SXSW. In April 2021 he testified before the US Library of Congress on behalf of prestigious universities to help amend a 1978 copyright law that made traditional learning difficult for film school students during the COVID/virtual learning era.

  He and his wife, actress Val Barri, are active in charities supporting cancer research, restoring hope for inner-city youth, and animal rescue. They live in Los Angeles.

  Please visit shanestanley.net and whatyoudontlearninfilmschool.com for more info.

  https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-600x903.png 600w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-900x1355.png 900w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-797x1200.png 797w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-768x1156.png 768w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-624x939.png 624w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers.png 1000w" alt=""What You Don't Learn in Film School", Author Shane Stanley" width="199" height="300" loading="lazy">

  This post was edited by Maura Nicolaita at June 6, 2025 10:46 AM PDT
• Maura Nicolaita

  • 182 posts
  Posted in the topic How to Manage a Film Set and Crew in the forum Free Live Filmmaking Webinars

  June 6, 2025 8:45 AM PDT

  Consent Agreement: By signing up for this webinar, you agree that your image, video, voice, and any interactions (such as chat messages, Q&A participation, or other contributions) may be recorded and used as part of both the Free Live Webinar and any Paid On-Demand Programming. By registering, you acknowledge and consent to the use of this content in promotional materials, educational content, and future paid programs without additional compensation or notification. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not proceed with registration.

  

  ______________________________________

  How to Manage a Film Set and Crew

  Essential Strategies for Leading Your Team and Ensuring a Smooth Production

  Taught by Multi-Emmy® Award-Winning Filmmaker Shane Stanley

  Date: Monday, August 11, 2025

  Time: 10:00am to 11:15am PST (Los Angeles Time Zone)

  Location: Online via Zoom

  REGISTRATION DETAILS

  • PRESALE: $29 Early Bird Price. Available Now through Friday, August 1, 2025.
  • GENERAL REGISTRATION: $39. Available August 2 – August 11, 2025.
  • ★ FREE for Premium Plus Members. (Not a member yet? Join today >> https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/membership-account/membership-levels/)

  

  Who Should Attend

  • Film students looking to develop leadership skills for managing productions.
  • Independent filmmakers striving to create a well-organized and efficient set.
  • Professionals transitioning into roles such as director or producer seeking to refine their crew management abilities.

  Overview

  A well-managed film set is the foundation of a successful production. This webinar offers essential strategies for first-time and experienced filmmakers to lead their team effectively, resolve on-set challenges, and keep production on schedule. Learn how to create a collaborative, respectful environment while maintaining the focus needed to bring your vision to life.

  What You Will Learn

  • The key roles on a film set and how to collaborate with each department.
  • Techniques for clear and effective communication with your crew.
  • Strategies for handling time management, scheduling, and unforeseen challenges.
  • How to foster a positive set culture while maintaining authority.
  • Conflict resolution techniques to keep production moving smoothly.

  By the Time You Finish This Webinar, You Will Be Able To

  • Organize and lead a film crew with confidence and professionalism.
  • Communicate effectively with all departments to ensure clarity and efficiency.
  • Maintain a calm and productive environment, even under pressure.
  • Resolve conflicts and unforeseen issues without derailing the production.

  What Our Community Had to Say:

  “Shane Stanley & StudentFilmmakers.com bring it yet again! Invaluable real world craft from an established filmmaker. The stuff you don’t find in the books.”

  “I’ve been writing and producing documentary television (news, entertainment, studio and field) as well as promos, commercials and long format shows since 1980, shooting and lighting since 1999 and editing since 2004. Nevertheless, I watch these webinars… enjoy them… and learn from them. Keep up the great work!”

  “So glad I found Student Filmmakers. I have learned so much more about making films from them and Shane Stanley.”

  “Shane is always a pleasure to listen to, for his enthusiasm, candor, and wealth of experience and information.”

  “Shane is great at sharing tips to make us better filmmakers. I appreciate him immensely!”

  “I always get great tips when Shane does a webinar. I usually take notes and post them (using giant sticky notes) on my kitchen cabinets…”

  “The webinars are always interesting and instructive even for me who is not an English speaker and have difficulty following the lecture carefully. The lecturer’s very knowledgeable and good at explaining. I must thank you.”

  “Excellent information from Shane, as always.” —Tom Marshall

  “It’s always good to hear Shane willing to take time and talk shop. Thanks again for offering these.”

  “Shane has a lot of knowledge to share.”

  

  About Your Instructor and Mentor:

  https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-600x684.jpg 600w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-900x1026.jpg 900w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-1053x1200.jpg 1053w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-768x875.jpg 768w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-1347x1536.jpg 1347w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-1797x2048.jpg 1797w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker-624x711.jpg 624w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shane_Stanley_Multi-Emmy-Award-Winning-Filmmaker.jpg 1844w" alt="Shane Stanley, Multi-Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker" width="263" height="300">

  SHANE STANLEY – Producer/Director

  • Two-time Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker (nominated four times)
  • Produced the #1 Box Office hit Gridiron Gang starring Dwayne Johnson
  • Director/Producer of Night Train, Hulu’s Longest Running #1 Hit
  • Director/Producer of Double Threat, Netflix #1 Global Hit
  • Consulting Producer for the #1 Cable TV Show “Rock of Love”
  • Best-selling author, recognized internationally for his film expertise
  • Winner of over two dozen prestigious international film & TV awards

  Shane Stanley is a multi-Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker and best-selling author who grew up in/around “the biz” in Hollywood. As a childhood actor he had appeared on-screen in over 100 projects with Hollywood legends which included June Lockhart, Lloyd Haynes, and David Arkin. By age ten, he was comfortably running an Arri 16mm camera and Moviola and fell in love with the filmmaking process. Along with his father, Lee Stanley, Shane produced The Desperate Passage Series. The docu-drama series ran on KTLA with world-wide syndication from 1988 to 1994, was nominated for 33 individual Emmy® Awards and won 13 statues. Two episodes of the series went on to become successful feature films. Gridiron Gang was acquired by Sony Pictures and became the #1 box office hit starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

  Shane served as Vice President of Sheen/Michaels Entertainment where he produced several motion pictures starring Marlon Brando, Mira Sorvino, Thomas Hayden Church, Donald Sutherland, Marisa Tomei, Sean Penn, John Travolta and Charlie and Martin Sheen. During that time, Shane made his directorial debut with his own screenplay, A Sight for Sore Eyes. The film was honored with the Special Jury Award at WorldFest Houston, won two Telly Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Film & Television, as well as winning top honors at the International Family Film Festival along with Walden Media’s The Chronicles of Narnia. It went on to win dozens of prestigious awards and was invited to screen at Cannes in 2005.

  Shane has also directed countless music videos, many which have aired on VH1’s Top 20 Video Countdown, including two that went #1 and another that made the network’s list of Best 100 Music Videos including “Go That Far” with Bret Michaels. The Michaels’ video was used for the television series Rock of Love, where Shane also served as a consulting producer. His other directing credits include Mistrust, starring two-time Golden Globe® winner Jane Seymour as well as Break Even with Tasya Teles, Steve Guttenberg, and Golden Globe® nominee, Joanna Pacula. In 2022, Shane produced and directed the action-comedy, Double Threat starring Matthew Lawrence and Dawn Olivieri (Yellowstone, 1883), which The New York Times listed on their Top 5-Action Movies to Stream Now and was the sole indie feature amongst Hollywood blockbusters on Amazon Prime’s “Top 10 in the US” list remaining there for two months, peaking at #4. The film has enjoyed similar success on Netflix’s world-wide charts, ranking #1 in 16 countries the week of its debut and remained on the platform’s Top 10 most watched film this summer.

  Shane’s action-thriller, Night Train, starring Danielle C. Ryan and Diora Baird premiered on HULU where it reached #1 on the platform and remained in the top spot for an astonishing four weeks. Night Train is the story of a single mom struggling to make ends meet as a Hollywood teamster who evades capture by a ruthless FBI Agent while running black market medical supplies in her legendary souped-up pickup truck. It also stars Joe Lando, Ivan Sergei, and Joseph D. Reitman.

  Currently, Shane is in post-production on Six Days in Evergreen a music-drama starring Dawn Olivieri, Penelope Ann Miller, A Martinez, and a star- studded cast which he produced, directed, and co-wrote. The film is presented by legendary producer, Mario Kassar (Terminator, Total Recall, Rambo, The Doors, Basic Instinct, Chaplin, LA Story) and will release later this year.

  Shane’s book, “What You Don’t Learn in Film School,” a best-seller earning a 4.5-star rating across the board was listed by CNN, FORBES, and BOOK AUTHORITY among the Best Filmmaking Books of All-Time, which covers filmmaking from concept to delivery. It has landed on required reading lists at several universities around the world and is endorsed by some of the most respected names in Hollywood including Producer, Neal H. Moritz, (Fast & Furious, S.W.A.T., 21 and 22 Jump Street) and Paul Williams, Oscar®, Golden Globe® and Grammy® Award Winner and Hall of Fame songwriter.

  In addition to his Emmy® Awards, Stanley has received 11 Telly Awards, 2 CINE Golden Eagles Awards, 5 Aurora Awards, 4 WorldFest Remi Awards, and 28 International Film Festival Awards. He has spoken at several prestigious film and art institutes around the country including The Screen Writers Expo, the world’s largest tradeshow for screenwriters, alongside Oliver Stone, Michael Goldenberg (Harry Potter franchise) and Adam Herz (American Pie) about the secrets of marketing to today’s youth. He is on several advisory boards for film schools and art programs across the country and is a contributing columnist for Student Filmmakers Magazine and NoFilmSchool.com as well as an instructor on Stage32.com, FilmCourage.com and IndieFilmHustle.com and SXSW. In April 2021 he testified before the US Library of Congress on behalf of prestigious universities to help amend a 1978 copyright law that made traditional learning difficult for film school students during the COVID/virtual learning era.

  He and his wife, actress Val Barri, are active in charities supporting cancer research, restoring hope for inner-city youth, and animal rescue. They live in Los Angeles.

  Please visit shanestanley.net and whatyoudontlearninfilmschool.com for more info.

  https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-600x903.png 600w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-900x1355.png 900w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-797x1200.png 797w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-768x1156.png 768w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers-624x939.png 624w, https://www.studentfilmmakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-You-Dont-Learn-in-Film-School_Shane-Stanley_StudentFilmmakers.png 1000w" alt=""What You Don't Learn in Film School", Author Shane Stanley" width="199" height="300">

• Maura Nicolaita

  • 182 posts
  Posted in the topic Directing Actors: Eliciting Authentic Performances Under Pressure in the forum Free Live Filmmaking Webinars

  June 5, 2025 8:54 AM PDT

  Consent Agreement: By signing up for this webinar, you agree that your image, video, voice, and any interactions (such as chat messages, Q&A participation, or other contributions) may be recorded and used as part of both the Free Live Webinar and any Paid On-Demand Programming. By registering, you acknowledge and consent to the use of this content in promotional materials, educational content, and future paid programs without additional compensation or notification. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not proceed with registration.

  

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  Directing Actors

  Eliciting Authentic Performances Under Pressure

  Taught by Multi-Emmy® Award-Winning Filmmaker Shane Stanley

  Monday, July 14, 2025

  Time: 10AM to 11:15AM PST (Los Angeles Time)

  Who Should Attend

  • Film students eager to understand the art of working with actors.
  • Independent filmmakers seeking to build confidence in directing performances.
  • Professionals aiming to refine their ability to guide actors effectively, even under tight schedules.

  Overview

  Directing actors is both an art and a science, requiring a deep understanding of character, emotion, and collaboration. This webinar explores practical techniques to help directors elicit authentic and compelling performances, even under challenging circumstances. Whether you’re new to directing or looking to enhance your skills, this session offers tools to build trust, communicate effectively, and create an environment where actors can thrive.

  What You Will Learn

  • Techniques to build trust and rapport with actors.
  • How to interpret and communicate character motivations.
  • Strategies for balancing creative vision with actor collaboration.
  • Methods to adapt direction under time and production constraints.
  • Tips for managing challenging situations on set.

  By the Time You Finish This Webinar, You Will Be Able To

  • Effectively communicate your vision to actors in a way they understand and can act upon.
  • Build a positive and collaborative working relationship with your cast.
  • Adjust your directing style to suit different actors’ needs.
  • Create an environment that fosters authentic and dynamic performances.

  What Our Community Had to Say:

  “Shane Stanley & StudentFilmmakers.com bring it yet again! Invaluable real world craft from an established filmmaker. The stuff you don’t find in the books.”

  “I’ve been writing and producing documentary television (news, entertainment, studio and field) as well as promos, commercials and long format shows since 1980, shooting and lighting since 1999 and editing since 2004. Nevertheless, I watch these webinars… enjoy them… and learn from them. Keep up the great work!”

  “So glad I found Student Filmmakers. I have learned so much more about making films from them and Shane Stanley.”

  “Shane is always a pleasure to listen to, for his enthusiasm, candor, and wealth of experience and information.”

  “Shane is great at sharing tips to make us better filmmakers. I appreciate him immensely!”

  “I always get great tips when Shane does a webinar. I usually take notes and post them (using giant sticky notes) on my kitchen cabinets…”

  “The webinars are always interesting and instructive even for me who is not an English speaker and have difficulty following the lecture carefully. The lecturer’s very knowledgeable and good at explaining. I must thank you.”

  “Excellent information from Shane, as always.” —Tom Marshall

  “It’s always good to hear Shane willing to take time and talk shop. Thanks again for offering these.”

  “Shane has a lot of knowledge to share.”

  

  About Your Instructor and Mentor:

  SHANE STANLEY – Producer/Director

  • Two-time Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker (nominated four times)
  • Produced the #1 Box Office hit Gridiron Gang starring Dwayne Johnson
  • Director/Producer of Night Train, Hulu’s Longest Running #1 Hit
  • Director/Producer of Double Threat, Netflix #1 Global Hit
  • Consulting Producer for the #1 Cable TV Show “Rock of Love”
  • Best-selling author, recognized internationally for his film expertise
  • Winner of over two dozen prestigious international film & TV awards

   Shane Stanley is a multi-Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker and best-selling author who grew up in/around “the biz” in Hollywood. As a childhood actor he had appeared on-screen in over 100 projects with Hollywood legends which included June Lockhart, Lloyd Haynes, and David Arkin. By age ten, he was comfortably running an Arri 16mm camera and Moviola and fell in love with the filmmaking process. Along with his father, Lee Stanley, Shane produced The Desperate Passage Series. The docu-drama series ran on KTLA with world-wide syndication from 1988 to 1994, was nominated for 33 individual Emmy® Awards and won 13 statues. Two episodes of the series went on to become successful feature films. Gridiron Gang was acquired by Sony Pictures and became the #1 box office hit starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

  Shane served as Vice President of Sheen/Michaels Entertainment where he produced several motion pictures starring Marlon Brando, Mira Sorvino, Thomas Hayden Church, Donald Sutherland, Marisa Tomei, Sean Penn, John Travolta and Charlie and Martin Sheen. During that time, Shane made his directorial debut with his own screenplay, A Sight for Sore Eyes. The film was honored with the Special Jury Award at WorldFest Houston, won two Telly Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Film & Television, as well as winning top honors at the International Family Film Festival along with Walden Media’s The Chronicles of Narnia. It went on to win dozens of prestigious awards and was invited to screen at Cannes in 2005.

  Shane has also directed countless music videos, many which have aired on VH1’s Top 20 Video Countdown, including two that went #1 and another that made the network’s list of Best 100 Music Videos including “Go That Far” with Bret Michaels. The Michaels’ video was used for the television series Rock of Love, where Shane also served as a consulting producer. His other directing credits include Mistrust, starring two-time Golden Globe® winner Jane Seymour as well as Break Even with Tasya Teles, Steve Guttenberg, and Golden Globe® nominee, Joanna Pacula. In 2022, Shane produced and directed the action-comedy, Double Threat starring Matthew Lawrence and Dawn Olivieri (Yellowstone, 1883), which The New York Times listed on their Top 5-Action Movies to Stream Now and was the sole indie feature amongst Hollywood blockbusters on Amazon Prime’s “Top 10 in the US” list remaining there for two months, peaking at #4. The film has enjoyed similar success on Netflix’s world-wide charts, ranking #1 in 16 countries the week of its debut and remained on the platform’s Top 10 most watched film this summer.

  Shane’s action-thriller, Night Train, starring Danielle C. Ryan and Diora Baird premiered on HULU where it reached #1 on the platform and remained in the top spot for an astonishing four weeks. Night Train is the story of a single mom struggling to make ends meet as a Hollywood teamster who evades capture by a ruthless FBI Agent while running black market medical supplies in her legendary souped-up pickup truck. It also stars Joe Lando, Ivan Sergei, and Joseph D. Reitman.

  Currently, Shane is in post-production on Six Days in Evergreen a music-drama starring Dawn Olivieri, Penelope Ann Miller, A Martinez, and a star- studded cast which he produced, directed, and co-wrote. The film is presented by legendary producer, Mario Kassar (Terminator, Total Recall, Rambo, The Doors, Basic Instinct, Chaplin, LA Story) and will release later this year.

  Shane’s book, “What You Don’t Learn in Film School,” a best-seller earning a 4.5-star rating across the board was listed by CNN, FORBES, and BOOK AUTHORITY among the Best Filmmaking Books of All-Time, which covers filmmaking from concept to delivery. It has landed on required reading lists at several universities around the world and is endorsed by some of the most respected names in Hollywood including Producer, Neal H. Moritz, (Fast & Furious, S.W.A.T., 21 and 22 Jump Street) and Paul Williams, Oscar®, Golden Globe® and Grammy® Award Winner and Hall of Fame songwriter.

  In addition to his Emmy® Awards, Stanley has received 11 Telly Awards, 2 CINE Golden Eagles Awards, 5 Aurora Awards, 4 WorldFest Remi Awards, and 28 International Film Festival Awards. He has spoken at several prestigious film and art institutes around the country including The Screen Writers Expo, the world’s largest tradeshow for screenwriters, alongside Oliver Stone, Michael Goldenberg (Harry Potter franchise) and Adam Herz (American Pie) about the secrets of marketing to today’s youth. He is on several advisory boards for film schools and art programs across the country and is a contributing columnist for Student Filmmakers Magazine and NoFilmSchool.com as well as an instructor on Stage32.com, FilmCourage.com and IndieFilmHustle.com and SXSW. In April 2021 he testified before the US Library of Congress on behalf of prestigious universities to help amend a 1978 copyright law that made traditional learning difficult for film school students during the COVID/virtual learning era.

  He and his wife, actress Val Barri, are active in charities supporting cancer research, restoring hope for inner-city youth, and animal rescue. They live in Los Angeles.

  Please visit shanestanley.net and whatyoudontlearninfilmschool.com for more info.