Austin School of Film Launches New Documentary Storytelling Intensive

c/o Todd Wiseman, Texas Tribune (Source Link)

Austin School of Film is proud to announce the launch of our new Documentary Storytelling Intensive, with applications opening on March 1, 2025.

In the world of film, many prestigious "intensives" and fellowships require participants to have an extensive portfolio, festival wins, or industry accolades just to be considered. But at Austin School of Film, we believe that storytelling should be accessible to all—not just those with a long list of credentials. That’s why we’re launching the Documentary Storytelling Intensive, an 8-week hands-on program designed to strip away barriers and provide emerging filmmakers with the tools, mentorship, and community support they need to tell impactful stories.

This hands-on, immersive intensive is designed for passionate and driven filmmakers—not just those with awards under their belt. Whether you're a first-time documentarian, an independent creator refining your craft, or someone with a powerful story to tell but no clear roadmap, this program meets you where you are. Over eight weeks, participants will hone their documentary storytelling skills while producing a 2-3 minute mini-documentary on a subject of their choice. View this course as a launching pad—a tool to help you take that next big leap in your filmmaking journey, and sharpen your voice as a storyteller. .

The spring/summer session of this program will be led by Todd Wiseman, an award-winning video producer and documentary storyteller, known for his profound work and experience as a former Senior Editor at The Texas Tribune and a Pulitzer Prize finalist.

Course Highlights:

  • Educator: Todd Wiseman brings more than a decade of documentary filmmaking experience, offering invaluable insights and expertise to participants.

  • Structure: The course covers an 8-week period, systematically divided into phases of development, production, and post-production, supplemented by technical training labs to enhance participants filmmaking capabilities.

  • Final Showcase: The course will culminate in a special public showcase produced by Austin School of Film, where final projects will be showcased to the community.

Todd Wiseman

Program Details

  • Dates: April 17 to June 5, 2025

  • Tuition: $750, with flexible payment plans available and a $50 application deposit (refundable or applied toward tuition)

  • Access to equipment & production resources provided by Austin School of Film including CINEMAKER studio access is included in your tuition.

Why Apply? At the Austin School of Film, we believe that film is a powerful tool for change, education, and expression. This course offers not only hands-on experience in documentary filmmaking but also fosters a community where creative visions are nurtured and developed. Limited to just 6 students, this intensive provides a unique opportunity for personalized learning and growth in the art of unscripted storytelling.

Application Period:

  • Open: March 1

  • Close: March 15

  • Notification: Applicants will be notified of their status by March 20

Faiza Kracheni