Workshop Registration

Directing Actors for Narrative

This workshop introduces filmmakers to the fundamentals of working with actors, as well as how important it is to develop close relationships with performers. Elements include: how to direct actors, working in various genres (drama, comedy), exercises and techniques to molding performance. This workshop is designed to help new and experienced directors improve their communication skills with actors and understand the acting process. Participants will learn about main acting techniques, discover various types of vocabulary used by actors, and why actors ask for their “motivation.” This course will lead you through the casting process, how to use rehearsal, see how an actor approaches a scene, the role of improvisation and how to help guide your actors to their best performance.

In the workshop, participants will study performance techniques in scenes from a variety of films, as well as work with an actor in person to develop a scene. Participants will learn about building trust with actors, working collaboratively and getting the performance they need. This workshop will guide participants through the casting process from a directorial perspective, creating a safe space in rehearsal and leading actors effectively. 

part 1: Mon 11 November 2024, 6 - 10 pm   
part 2: Wed 13 November 2024, 6 - 10 pm   
(Registration deadline is Mon 11 November 5:00 pm)

Instructor: Eric Bizzarri

Eric Bizzarri is an award winning Canadian director and producer based in Toronto. Primarily interested in the nuances of human relationships, Eric's work investigates toxic masculinity, male-male abuse, friendships and intimacy. His films have been distributed by CBC, Super Channel, Revry and Amazon Prime (US, UK, Germany).

His most recent producing credits include Dispora (TIFF, Palm Springs International ShortFest), Desi Standard Time Travel (Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival, Tallgrass Film Festival, Canadian Film Fest) and Great Seeing You (Miami International Film Festival, Cinefest Sudbury International Film Festival).

His most recent directing credits include Mea Culpa (Toronto Black Film Festival, Reykjavik International Film Festival), Pressure Play (Canadian Film Fest, Halifax Black Film Festival), I Wanna Make a Movie, or I Wanna Die Trying (TIFF Next Wave, Whistler Film Festival) and a commercial for Ben and Jerry's, with Label 428.

In 2023, he was recently selected for the Reykjavik International Film Festival Talent Lab, an incubator for emerging filmmakers making their debut feature film.

Eric is the Co-Founder and CEO of the Future of Film Showcase, an annual film festival based in Toronto fostering the future of emerging Canadian filmmakers, and sits on the Board of Directors for the Breakthroughs Film Festival. He is a graduate of York University with a Bachelors Degree of Fine Arts in Film Production with Honours.



Location: 1137 Dupont Street, Toronto, Ontario M6H 2A3
Category: Directing
Maximum Capacity: 12
8 hours of instruction in 2 parts$125 /member$150 /nonmember