Directing a TV Series

Do you want to direct episodes of television for a living?

Maybe you’ve directed an independent feature film, short films or even digital media but directing television is a different animal altogether. Directing episodes of a TV series requires a unique skillset beyond just your creative eye and storytelling vision. You have to be able to drop in mid-season and lead a team who know their roles on both sides of the camera. Most directors who begin as independent filmmakers can be lost in the process if they are not properly prepared.

In this exclusive Stage 32 4-part class, you will learn how to navigate the landscape of booking a television directing job and how to collaborate with showrunners, writers, crew and actors to bring your vision to life while remaining consistent in the show's tone and visual style.

Teaching you everything you need to know about directing for television is esteemed director Lisa France. With 26 years of film and television directing experience, Lisa is a true expert in this field and will share her knowledge with you exclusively through Stage 32. Lisa’s recent work includes directing episodes of the hit FOX series THE CLEANING LADY, QUEEN SUGAR on The Oprah Winfrey Network and NAOMI currently streaming on Max. Lisa also recently directed the feature films MERRY KISS CAM on Hulu, WHO WANTS ME DEAD on Lifetime and she produced THE HERRICANES, which recently won a Special Jury Prize at the prestigious SXSW festival.

Over 4 interactive Zoom sessions, Lisa will teach you an overview of how you can land the coveted job of directing episodes of television series and how to nail the interview with the network or streamer once you’re up for the job. You will learn how to best prepare for directing your specific episode. Preparation is the most important part of a TV director’s job. You will learn how to prepare for prep meetings with the various department heads on your show as well as the best way to approach the key steps in the process including your tech scout, casting guest stars in your episode, and how to manage the network or streamer during prep. Finally, you will learn how to execute your shoot days and manage the post-production process for success. Lisa will also give you advice on how to ensure you make a good impression and get hired to direct more episodes to build a long career.

This interactive and information packed class will give you a thorough understanding of the episodic TV directing process and teach you how to be successful once you book the job!

PLUS! You’ll receive exclusive handouts to help you on your television directing journey. Downloads include:

• The script for an episode of QUEEN SUGAR directed by Lisa France
• Travel memo
• Prep schedules
• Scene Breakdowns
• Schematic drawings
• Shot lists
• Tech scout schedule
• Call sheets