Joan Scheckel Filmmaking Labs

What is The Technique™?

Great question! Head over to The Technique™ page to read all about it! 

I'm not a Director, can I still take The Lab Series?

Yes. The Labs are designed for all film, tv and theatre creatives and execs who are ready to take their work to a new level. The Technique™ is unique in that it is designed to cross platforms. Writers take the Lab to workshop scripts. Producers take it to become more proficient in script development, and to improve their working relationships with writers, directors, and actors. Cinematographers take it to find the emotional angle of their work. Editors take it to deepen their approach to storytelling. Actors take it to strengthen their craft and find new authenticity in their performances.  Many professionals in one area often want to stretch creatively or make a switch from one form to another. The Labs are perfect for those considering a move. We encourage a mix in the Labs because it brings us closer to the experience we have on set.

 

What's the experience level in The Lab Series?

All levels are welcome to apply for the Lab. The Technique™ encourages you to go deeper, investigate new forms of storytelling and take risks in embodying them. This way, each participant learns and is challenged in their own way.

 

How many Labs are there?

There are a lot. But don't get overwhelmed. We'll walk you through what Labs will best support your artistic goals.

 

Do I have to take the Labs a specific order?

No. The material in each lab covers a different aspect of The Technique™. The labs work together, but the order can be random. Think of it like a Lego Set. You create the path of study that suits your artistic needs. We can help!

Do I have to act in the Lab?

Yes. It is the single best thing you will ever do to deepen your connection to directing, writing, or shooting a film. You will not have to get up and "perform" scenes. The acting is in the form of structured exercises and improvs. We all learn by doing, otherwise our knowledge is simply intellectual, a theory. Theory will not help you work more confidently and creatively with human beings.

 

I have a health or physical issue right now, or maybe, I just can't stand the thought of having to participate. I feel self-conscious and I don't want to participate this time. But I really want to study!  Should I come or not?

You know your body and your mind best! If you are pregnant, on medication, have injuries or health issues and need to take care of your body by all means do! Be sure to email us to make us aware prior to the Lab so Joan knows that you would like to solely observe this time.

 

Do I need a full script?

No. Students often come to the lab with just a seed of an idea, and use The Technique™ to jump-start writing. You can use a scene from a script you're working on or any film script (produced or not) that interests you.

 

At what stage should my project be? What if my material isn't finished?

Students come at all different stages. Some directors do the lab before pre-production. It's a very nice ramp into the film. Others take The Lab in between projects. When a new idea is germinating it's a great time to explore in a safe environment. Many directors and writers say to me "But it should be further along! It's not ready!" Absolutely. That's why it's a workshop. We don't have enough forums to explore our ideas in a highly creative, supportive context. The 4 Day Labs fill that gap.

 

What do we need to prepare?  How much homework is there?

If there is specific Prep or Homework, our team will let you know as soon as you register. Most of our Core Labs have zero homework. Some of the more Advanced Labs have homework that deepens learning.

 

I hear it's intense.  I'm scared.

We understand. Anything new and challenging is terrifying! And yes it is rigorous. But so is making work, so it's better to jump in and start dealing with it. Fear is what we call an occupational hazard for artists. It's not going to go away for the rest of your creative life. So, might as well get on with it. And really, the dread beforehand is the worst :) Just show up. You won't know until you try, and it's also surprisingly fun! 

What is the difference between stage and film acting?

From our perspective there isn't any during the preparation. There are different technical aspects to be aware of in each medium, but the key elements of preparation are the same. A good performance is good because it's free, and because it's true. How do we gain the confidence and the skill to recognize and encourage such performances? This is our investigation.

What is the 4 Day Live Lab Schedule?

All 4 Day Labs follow the same schedule:

1. Friday: 7-10pm PST
2. Saturday & Sunday: 1-7pm PST
3. Monday: 7-9pm PST - Online Q&A

If a specific Lab has a different schedule, that info will be posted on the Lab's Info Page. 

For Live Labs: What if I can't make the whole weekend? 

No worries. For In-Person Labs if you are unable to attend any part of the Lab, you have access to the recording of the Lab for two weeks after the Lab concludes. Many students use this footage to catch up on any portions they missed, or revisit concepts. 

For Live Online Labs feel free to jump in and out as your schedule allows! You also have access to the media links for 2 weeks after the lab ends to catch up on any parts you miss. 

 

What's the Tuition?

The Labs are designed for professionals aspiring to elevate their professional skills in an intimate class setting, limited in size to maximize interaction among fellow students and teacher.

The Tuition per participant is:

1. Live - Hands On Scene: $4,500
2. Live - Hands On: $2,865
3. Live - Online: $1,825
4. Self-Guided: $1,825

What about Creative Teams?

We love teams that want to take the Lab together, because working as a team gets everyone on the same page and that is key to keeping your shoots on time and under budget! Should you choose to study with your team, please note the tuition price is per participant, not per group. We offer group incentives - email us to inquire!

You may pay by credit card. Payment Plans are available.

I definitely want to take it, but my budget is tight this month. Will you do a payment plan?

Absolutely. We are happy to sort out payment plans.  

We're a small operation and we want to keep payment plans available to people. So we have to look out for each other and each hold up our end of the bargain. If you're good with that, a payment plan is a great option.

 

What is your Refund Policy?

1. There are no cancellations or refunds after enrollment
2. Students are responsible for payment in full whether or not they chose to attend all Lab sessions
3. Students who sign up for live attendance and are unable to attend live, may make up the classes they miss via mend links. Media links are available for 2 weeks post Lab
4. Self Guided media links are available for 1 Month
5. Extender passes are available should you wish to access media links longer than noted above

 

Ok, I'm ready. How do I sign up?

Fantastic! We can't wait to see you! 

 Email us and we are happy to help!