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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250715T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250715T220000
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250616T084600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T081018Z
UID:6814-1752608700-1752616800@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:In-camera Colour Matching Workshop part II
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Peter Leverit \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFollowing on from our popular “Getting Exposure and Colour Right” masterclass\, this session takes things a step further with a practical evening of multi-camera In-camera Colour Matching. \n\n\n\nUsing both club cameras and any equipment members bring along\, we’ll aim to set up a short scene with multiple angles — and then work together to ensure the footage matches across all sources. This session is perfect for those looking to build skills in multi-camera continuity\, lighting consistency\, and matching colour profiles from different makes and models. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat we’ll cover on the In-camera Colour Matching night\n\n\n\n\nBalancing cameras: Exposure\, white balance\, and picture profiles\n\n\n\nLighting consistency: Working with one lighting setup to serve multiple angles\n\n\n\nPractical camera setup: Framing\, placement\, and coordination of shots\n\n\n\nUsing tools: Waveforms\, vectorscopes\, and lookup tables (LUTs) where available\n\n\n\nMatching footage in post: A quick look at what you can fix after the shoot\n\n\n\n\nWe’ll be feeding all compatible cameras into our video switchers\, allowing us to monitor all live angles at once and compare the In-camera Colour Matching Workshop part II with regards to image consistency in real time. This gives us a fantastic opportunity to see how exposure\, colour\, and lighting decisions hold up across multiple cameras simultaneously. \n\n\n\nPlease note: not all cameras may be capable of live output\, but we’ll work with what we have and adapt accordingly. \n\n\n\nWe will have the club cameras and a grey scale card. \n\n\n\nWhat to bring: \n\n\n\n\nYour camera\, if you have one (any brand or level welcome)\n\n\n\nTripod or rig if available\n\n\n\nAny tools you use for exposure or colour balancing\n\n\n\n\nThis session is about collaboration\, experimentation\, and shared learning. Come along and see how small changes can make a huge difference to the final result. \n\n\n\nCome ready to learn\, ask questions and see the difference that proper exposure and colour handling can make.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/in-camera-colour-matching-workshop/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Camera-and-colour-card-768.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250805T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250805T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250702T212806Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250805T051925Z
UID:6813-1754423100-1754432100@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Can you tell a story in just a 1 minute film?
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Paul Dryland \n\n\n\nMake a a 1 minute film in an evening.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBack by popular demand\, this fast-paced\, creative evening will see club members split into small teams and challenged to create a compelling short film in just two hours\, with a maximum running time of 60 seconds! Yes\, a a 1 minute film. \n\n\n\nThis session is about thinking on your feet\, making quick creative decisions\, and focusing on tight\, visual storytelling. You’ll need to plan fast and shoot smart to get your idea across in under a minute. Editing can be done afterwards\, so the focus will be on capturing the footage within the two-hour window. \n\n\n\nYou can bring your own cameras or use club equipment. We’ll have tripods\, handheld rigs and a couple of basic kits ready to go. The beauty of this challenge is how much you can achieve with limited gear and lots of imagination. \n\n\n\n\n\nThe films can be any genre or style\, drama\, comedy\, horror\, documentary or something experimental. Be bold\, be creative! You can build your teams in advance\, or simply come along and take pot luck on the night. We suggest thinking ahead about what you might like to shoot\, so you’re not starting entirely from scratch when the clock begins. \n\n\n\nWe’ll watch the finished films together at a club night a month or two afterwards and celebrate the creativity that can come from a ticking clock and a great idea. \n\n\n\nWhether you’re new to filmmaking or want to hone your storytelling under pressure\, this is a fun and energising session where everyone can contribute. Come and test your skills – and your stopwatch! \n\n\n\nBelow is a Group Prompt & Planning Sheet for you to use \n\n\n\n1-Minute_Film_Script_Prompt_Two_PageDownload
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/make-a-1-minute-film/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Challenge
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Make-a-60-second-film-in-an-evening.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250819T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250819T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250803T191114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250803T192058Z
UID:6874-1755632700-1755641700@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sound Recording Workshop (Hands-On)
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a practical evening focused on one of the most critical (but often overlooked) elements of filmmaking – sound recording. This hands-on workshop is designed to help you get to grips with the gear we use most often on club shoots\, and to build your confidence when capturing dialogue on set. \n\n\n\nWhether you’re new to sound or looking to sharpen your skills\, this is a chance to learn through doing. \n\n\n\nWhat we’ll cover:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow to position a shotgun mic on a boom for clean\, consistent dialogue\n\n\n\nTips for working with personal (lav) mics\, including hiding techniques and avoiding rustle\n\n\n\nBasic techniques for monitoring and adjusting levels on the fly\n\n\n\nUnderstanding mic placement in relation to framing and movement\n\n\n\nWorking collaboratively with the camera and directing team\n\n\n\nCommon pitfalls in low-budget sound recording and how to avoid them\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’ll be working with real scenes and actors\, rotating through sound roles so everyone gets hands-on experience. \n\n\n\nEquipment focus:\n\n\n\nThis session will focus on club-owned gear\, including: \n\n\n\n\nRode NTG2 shotgun mic with boom pole and shock mount\n\n\n\nSennheiser G3 wireless lavalier mics\n\n\n\nZoom audio recorders and club headphones\n\n\n\n\nWe’ll set up practical filming situations where you can test mic placement\, record takes\, and review sound quality – all with immediate feedback and support. If you’ve ever worried about background noise\, inconsistent levels\, or that dreaded rustle from a shirt collar\, this is your chance to troubleshoot and learn the fixes in real time. \n\n\n\nBring your own kit too (optional)\n\n\n\nIf you have your own mics\, recorders\, or headphones\, feel free to bring them along and compare setups.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/sound-recording-workshop/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Challenge,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Boom-vs-Lav-mics.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250902T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250902T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250901T182722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T224022Z
UID:6887-1756842300-1756851300@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Stepping Into the Director’s Chair
DESCRIPTION:Session led by – Adrian Dean \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDirecting is often thought of as calling “action” and “cut\,” but it’s so much more than that. A director’s choices shape the entire mood and impact of a film — from the way a scene is shot\, to how the actors interpret their lines\, to the music and locations that set the atmosphere. \n\n\n\nThen it’s your turn. We’ll split into groups and give everyone the same short script. Each team will direct and film their version of the scene\, applying their own ideas and instincts. Afterwards\, we’ll watch back the results to see how differently the same script can play out when filtered through a new creative lens. \n\n\n\nAt this session\, we’ll explore what it really means to sit in the director’s chair. Together\, we’ll break down the different areas where a director makes key decisions: storyboarding\, shot composition\, performance\, casting ideas\, music\, and location. You’ll see just how much power there is in these choices\, and how dramatically they can change the tone of the final film. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIt promises to be a fun\, interactive evening where everyone gets the chance to be hands-on. Whether you’re new to filmmaking or a seasoned club regular\, this workshop is designed to spark creativity\, collaboration\, and discussion. You might even discover a hidden flair for directing that you didn’t know you had! \n\n\n\nSo come along\, take the hot seat\, and find out where your directing instincts will take you. \n\n\n\nNo experience necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a script or story you’d like to try reading on camera. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens – this is your night! \n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/stepping-into-the-directors-chair/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Sean-Newsroom.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250916T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250916T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250907T235702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250907T235740Z
UID:6892-1758051900-1758060900@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Project & Networking Night
DESCRIPTION:Our regular club nights are always full of energy\, packed with workshops\, shoots\, and hands-on activities. But one thing that often gets lost in the buzz is the chance to sit down\, talk through ideas\, and plan future projects together. \n\n\n\nThis Project & Networking Night is designed to give us that space. \n\n\n\nIt’s part social evening and part working session. You’ll have the chance to grab a cuppa\, catch up with fellow members\, and then dive into proper conversations about the projects you’re working on — or the ones you’d love to start. \n\n\n\nThe Anthology Films will be a key focus. With so many moving parts to bring together\, this is the perfect time for those involved to share updates\, discuss logistics\, and map out next steps. Heads of department will also have the chance to meet and coordinate roles so that everyone knows who’s doing what. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is nothing like our club nights – but we can aim for it! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBut it’s not just about the anthology. If you’ve got a project of your own — whether it’s a short film idea\, a documentary\, or just a creative experiment — this is your chance to talk it through with the group\, find collaborators\, or get some constructive feedback. \n\n\n\nBy the end of the night\, you’ll come away with a clearer plan\, fresh ideas\, and stronger connections with other members. And because it’s a social as well\, you’ll also have had time to relax\, chat\, and enjoy the company of fellow filmmakers without the usual pressure of a busy club night. \n\n\n\nSo bring along your ideas\, your enthusiasm\, and maybe even your notebook — this is a night to share\, plan\, and make things happen. \n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/project-and-networking-night/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nothing-like-our-club-nights-768.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251007T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251007T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250702T233824Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T222727Z
UID:6811-1759866300-1759875300@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Newsdesk Green Screen Presenter Night
DESCRIPTION:Step into the spotlight and take the anchor’s chair.\n\n\n\nIn this fun\, hands-on session\, we’ll transform the club into a working TV studio. You’ll have the opportunity to present a news-style piece to camera using our green screen setup\, complete with virtual backdrops and studio-style lighting. \n\n\n\nWhether you want to try your hand as a newsreader\, field reporter\, or host of a mock chat show\, we’ll have scripts and formats available for you to try – or you can bring your own material to perform. This session is ideal for anyone looking to build confidence in front of the camera or learn how to direct presenter-led content. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’ll cover: \n\n\n\n\nLighting and framing for green screen shoots\n\n\n\nReading to camera and using autocue prompts\n\n\n\nPositioning and timing for live-style recording\n\n\n\nDirecting presenters and working as a studio crew\n\n\n\nTips on scripting engaging pieces to camera\n\n\n\n\nThis time\, we’ll also be giving our presenters a topical challenge: reporting on a breaking story that ‘the internet has gone down across the globe.’ With the cause unknown and no idea if or when it will return\, you’ll have the chance to deliver this dramatic piece of news straight to camera\, footage we hope to use in our upcoming anthology project. \n\n\n\nThis is a collaborative session\, so there will be plenty of chances to try out different roles\, whether that’s presenting\, directing\, operating cameras or mixing live feeds. If you’re more comfortable behind the scenes\, we’ll need people to manage sound\, lighting\, and recording too. \n\n\n\nThe best footage from the evening may be used in future Sutton FilmMakers promo videos\, turned into short presenter reels for those taking part\, or even featured in our anthology project. \n\n\n\nNo experience necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a script or story you’d like to try reading on camera. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens – this is your night! \n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/newsdesk-green-screen/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Sean-Newsroom.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251021T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251021T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20250702T231313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T165750Z
UID:6812-1761075900-1761084900@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Casting Night for the Anthology Films
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Adrian Dean and Rhys Davies \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLights\, camera… auditions!\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’re entering the casting phase for our exciting Sutton FilmMakers Anthology Project\, and this club night will be dedicated to auditioning actors for a selection of the short films we’re producing as part of the series. \n\n\n\nWe’d like to invite performers from local drama groups to join us for the evening and actors that would like to be involved. You do NOT have to be a member.  They’ll be reading scenes from selected scripts\, giving directors and producers a chance to see how different actors bring the material to life. This is your chance to meet local talent\, hear your lines performed aloud\, and make decisions about who’s right for each role. \n\n\n\nIt is FREE for those auditioning.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’ll be: \n\n\n\n\nAuditioning roles from several anthology scripts\n\n\n\nInviting actors from the local community\n\n\n\nFilming test scenes where needed\, to help with casting decisions\n\n\n\nFinalising casting for shoots scheduled in the months ahead\n\n\n\n\nWe’re looking for a diverse range of actors for several upcoming short films and scripts. \n\n\n\n\nWe’re currently accepting self-tapes and encourage everyone to audition. Even if you’re not cast in this round\, your audition will be considered for future projects in the anthology.  The Casting night is on the 21st If you can’t make the night a selftape can work.. The self tapes do not have to be videography master pieces\, we just want to see you act. \n\n\n\n\nDetails: To read the scripts simple click on the film name. \n\n\n\nEchoes of Silence (family drama):  \n\n\n\n\nDAUGHTER: 16\, female – sarcastic\n\n\n\nMOTHER: 40\, female – playful & warm\n\n\n\nFATHER: 40\,  male – loves a bit of banter \n\n\n\nGRANDMOTHER: 65-70 patient – wise & playful\n\n\n\nTV BROADCAST: 30-50\, any gender\n\n\n\n\nThe Scam (slice-of-life drama): \n\n\n\n\nPETER: 60-70\, male\, well spoken\n\n\n\nYOUNG PETER: 25-35\, male\, well spoken\n\n\n\nPETER’S SON: 20-30\, male\, techy/geeky\n\n\n\n\n\nEVELYN: 60-70\, female\, well spoken\n\n\n\nJOHN/SIMON: 50-60\, male\, accents preferred\n\n\n\n\nAfter I Am (family drama):  \n\n\n\n\nBILLY: 7-11\, male\n\n\n\nGINA: 30-40\, female\n\n\n\nGRANDDAD: 50+\, male\n\n\n\n\nUndelivered (action):  \n\n\n\n\nDELIVERY CYCLIST: any age and gender – own bike preferred\n\n\n\nWORKER:  any age and gender\n\n\n\nRECIPIENT: any age and gender\n\n\n\n\nSelf Driving Trouble (workplace drama): \n\n\n\n\nLESLIE: 20\, male – timid but earnest\n\n\n\nTARON: 40\, male – chaotic and in-command\n\n\n\n\nThreadbare (sewing bee comedy): \n\n\n\n\nCLEANER: 30+\, any age and gender\n\n\n\nDEREK: 50-60\, male – cheerful and calm\n\n\n\nLUCY: 28\, female – warm-hearted but tired-looking\n\n\n\nMARGARET: 40s\, female – prim\, proper\, composed but warm\n\n\n\nPAM 58\,  female – quick\, colourful and with (a Northern Irish lilt\, not essential)\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re interested\, please submit (if you have them) your headshot\, résumé\, and self-tape of one page from the relevant script(s) if you can’t make the night. Please complete the form on this page – Casting Call.\n\n\n\nIf you’re involved in one of the anthology films\, or simply want to learn more about directing actors and running auditions\, this is a must-attend session. And if you’re an actor yourself\, you’re very welcome to attend and read – just let us know in advance! \n\n\n\nWhether you’re a director with a script in the anthology\, a writer curious to hear your dialogue off the page\, or just interested in the casting process\, this will be a lively and engaging evening. \n\n\n\nThe casting choices made here will shape the next phase of the project\, so come along and help us discover the faces of our upcoming productions.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/casting-night/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/anthology_casting_night.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251104T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251104T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20251028T231807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T235141Z
UID:6993-1762285500-1762294500@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sutton Filmmakers Spooktacular - Part 1
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Owain Dain\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHistory of Horror is here!\n\n\n\nWelcome\, boils and ghouls! \n\n\n\nPrepare to take a deep dive into the history of horror and discover why we at SFM just can’t get enough of being scared. \n\n\n\nWe’ll explore how horror has evolved over the years\, discuss how the “rules” of who lives and dies have changed\, and figure out the best way to tell who’s next to go. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“There’s a formula to it\, a very simple formula!!”\n\n\n\nIn this spooktacular\, expect clips\, conversation\, and maybe a few jump scares of our own. \n\n\n\nWe’ll also talk about why horror is such a genius genre from a filmmaking perspective — low budgets\, minimal sets\, no big-name actors (though plenty of famous ones started in horror)\, and still massive returns. \n\n\n\nWe’ll cite the Blumhouse financial model and look at just how effective it’s been. \n\n\n\nIt’s creative freedom with a killer payoff. We’ll explore sound design (where less is definitely more)\, the history of the jump scare\, and how music and camera positioning can turn an ordinary scene into pure nightmare fuel — or even casual comedy. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBasically\, what makes horror work — and why it keeps haunting us.\n\n\n\nTo top it all off\, we’ll be screening and evaluating two club horror films — Night Fears and Lake on the Cabin — discussing what works\, what doesn’t\, and what we can learn for our own projects. \n\n\n\nBy the end\, we’ll all have a better sense of how to create a solid\, spooky short ourselves\, using everything we’ve learned. \n\n\n\nFilmmakers beware — you’re in for a scare! \n\n\n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/sutton-filmmakers-spooktacular-part-1/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/LOTC-Poster.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251118T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251118T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20251029T221729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T114531Z
UID:7008-1763495100-1763504100@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Screen Acting Workshop with Sara Jordan
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Sara Jordan\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBring your stage craft to camera\n\n\n\nThis event has passed. However you can see the write up and footage here Screen Acting Workshop\, One Line at a Time \n\n\n\nBring your stage craft to camera with clarity and confidence. This focused\, two hour workshop is designed for theatre trained performers who want to understand what changes on set\, how the lens reads truth\, and which habits help you deliver clean\, believable takes. \n\n\n\nLed by experienced actress and award winning Director Sara Jordan\, you will feel the difference between stage scale and screen intimacy\, and leave knowing exactly what directors at Sutton FilmMakers are looking for. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat we are aiming to achieve\n\n\n\nBy the end of the night you will \n\n\n\n\nrecognise how the camera magnifies thought and pares back gesture\n\n\n\nknow where to place your eyeline and how to keep it consistent\n\n\n\nuse stillness\, breath\, and listening to carry a moment\n\n\n\nmatch simple actions for continuity so your performance cuts smoothly\n\n\n\ntake a clear redirect and repeat the beat with confidence\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTheatre vs. Screen Performances\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow the night runs\n\n\n\n\nA short welcome\, why screen acting is different\, three simple rules\, smaller\, later\, listen\n\n\n\nLive demonstration with immediate playback to show stage size\, medium shot\, and close up\n\n\n\nPaired drill off camera to practise eyeline and stillness with a reader just off lens\n\n\n\nOn camera hot seat rotations\, each actor delivers a short contemporary beat\, receives one precise note from Sara\, and runs a quick pickup\n\n\n\nGroup debrief\, five recurring patterns to watch for in future screen auditions\, and practical next steps\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho this is for\n\n\n\nActors with strong theatre experience who are new to camera or returning after a break\, recent graduates building their first screen credits\, am dram performers ready to translate their skills to film\, performers who want sharper\, simpler on set habits. \n\n\n\n\nTheatre trained actors who want to translate stage craft to camera with confidence\n\n\n\nAmateur dramatic performers ready to shift from projection to on camera truth\n\n\n\nRecent drama school graduates building screen experience and set discipline\n\n\n\nActors returning after a break who want a fast\, practical refresh on screen habits\n\n\n\nPresenters\, creators\, and voice actors moving into filmed performance\n\n\n\nDirectors or writers who act in their own projects and want cleaner takes\n\n\n\nAny performer who’s heard “smaller\, later\, listen” and wants to feel what that means under the lens\n\n\n\n\nIf you can hold a scene\, take a note\, and you are curious about how the camera reads thought\, this night is designed for you. \n\n\n\nWhat to bring\n\n\n\nNeutral top without logos\, minimal jewellery\, comfortable shoes\, a bottle of water\, your curiosity and a willingness to listen on camera \n\n\n\nWhy we are offering this\n\n\n\nOur recent anthology casting brought in brilliant theatre talent\, and we saw how much potential there is when stage craft meets the lens. This workshop bridges the gap\, helping you keep everything you do that works on stage while refining it for the intimacy of screen. \n\n\n\nIf you are a theatre actor and would like to take part do let us know in advance please as it would be nice (but not essential) to know how many actors we can work with. \n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/screen-acting-workshop/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Actor-giving-a-screen-performance.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251202T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251202T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20251118T091536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T092025Z
UID:7046-1764704700-1764713700@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Writers Room\, Live Script Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Adrian Dean\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWelcome back to the writers room. \n\n\n\nWe are turning the evening into a live script workshop. If you have a script\, or even just a few scenes\, that you think could be stronger\, this is a chance to put it in front of your fellow filmmakers and get some honest\, constructive help. \n\n\n\nMost of us write because we want to see our stories made into real films. The hard part is getting the script to the level it needs to be before anyone points a camera at it. It is very easy to work in a bubble\, not get notes\, and only discover the weak spots when it is too late\, on set\, with a crew waiting. \n\n\n\nOn this writers room night we will sit together\, read sections of your script\, and break them down in a supportive way. We will talk about structure\, character\, dialogue and pacing\, and look at how clearly the film appears in the reader’s mind. The aim is not to tear work apart\, but to find the strongest version of your idea and help you move towards it. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYour script does not have to be finished. You can bring a first draft\, a problem scene\, or even a rough outline if you are stuck and need to know whether to push on or start again. Sometimes a ten minute conversation saves you months of circling the same issue. \n\n\n\nHow will Live Script Workshop work\n\n\n\n\nSend us your script\, or an extract\, in advance\, preferably as a PDF\, use the script submission page (its one we use for lots of submissions so some of the fields wont be appropriate but ignore them) \, with “Writers Room” in the subject line.\n\n\n\nOn the night we will work through as many scripts as we reasonably can\, scene by scene\, with the writer in the hot seat to answer questions and hear suggestions.\n\n\n\nIf you are not ready to share your own work yet you are still very welcome to come along\, listen in\, and join the discussion. Watching other people’s scripts being pulled apart\, gently\, is one of the quickest ways to improve your own writing.\n\n\n\n\nCome ready to give and receive feedback\, ask questions\, and bounce ideas around. With a bit of courage\, and a room full of peers behind you\, you might find that the script you have been wrestling with is closer to production ready than you thought. \n\n\n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/writers-room-live-script-workshop/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Scripts-SFM-picture-Canva.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251216T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251216T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20251213T120236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251213T121903Z
UID:7095-1765914300-1765923300@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Christmas Social
DESCRIPTION:Join us at The Parochial Halls in Cheam on Tuesday 16 December 2025 at 7.30pm for our Christmas social\, with drinks\, nibbles and member made films from this year. \n\n\n\nOur final meet up of the year is a relaxed Christmas social at The Parochial Halls\, Cheam\, Sutton\, starting at 7.45pm on Tuesday 16 December 2025. This is a chance to unwind\, catch up with other members and look back at what we have created together over the past twelve months. \n\n\n\nWe will have a few beers and wines available\, along with soft drinks and some nibbles. Nothing formal\, just an easy going evening where you can chat\, share ideas for next year and enjoy some of the work that has come out of the club recently. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring the evening\, we will screen three Sutton FilmMakers projects that many members will not have seen yet. \n\n\n\n• From Hong Kong To Sutton\, Directed by Tom McDanialA thoughtful documentary about the Hong Kong community who have made Sutton their home\, sharing how they are settling in and their hopes for the future. \n\n\n\n• Best Day Worst Day\, Directed by Julie ChildsA sharp short comedy about a new driver\, old grudges and some very bad decisions. \n\n\n\n• Women In Film\, Directed by Peter LeverickA behind the scenes documentary celebrating the women who crewed Best Day Worst Day\, highlighting their roles\, their paths into film and how Sutton FilmMakers helps people step up\, learn and lead on set. \n\n\n\nThe Christmas social is free for current members. Visitors are very welcome too at the usual £8 visitor rate\, so if you know someone who is curious about the club\, this is a gentle way to introduce them. \n\n\n\nCome along if you can and help us round off the year in good company\, with good films and a bit of festive cheer. If any details like timing or access are a concern\, just get in touch and we will do our best to help. \n\n\n\n\n\nGuests welcome see below.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/christmas-social/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Happy-Christmas-Tom.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260106T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260106T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20251028T234703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T235247Z
UID:6999-1767728700-1767737700@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sutton Filmmakers Spooktacular - Part 2
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Owain Dain\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLets Dive Back In\n\n\n\nTonight\, we’re diving back into the world of horror for a follow-up\, and trust me\, it’s not just about jump scares. \n\n\n\nHorror is full of surprises: genre-bending stories with symbolism and hidden themes\, monsters that represent real fears\, and subtle tricks that make you question what’s real. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Horror Rules Change\n\n\n\nIt’s clever. It’s creative. And it’s constantly evolving. \n\n\n\nOver the course of the evening\, we’ll travel through the decades\, from the raw rebellion of the ’70s\, to the blood-soaked excess of the ’80s\, the self-aware ’90s\, and the chilling influence of Japanese horror and “torture porn” in the 2000s. \n\n\n\nWith each era\, the rules change: who survives\, who falls\, and what we’re really afraid of. \n\n\n\nWe’ll also explore why horror works so well in short films\, and why those ideas don’t always translate to feature-length films. \n\n\n\nShort horror thrives on the event itself: the shock\, the tension\, the atmosphere\, while features often focus on the people experiencing the event. \n\n\n\nWe’ll also look at how horror shares a lot in common with comedy: it’s all about the build-up\, the suspense\, and the punchline\, or in horror’s case\, the reveal that makes your heart skip a beat. By the end of the night\, you’ll understand not just why horror works\, but how to craft it yourselves. \n\n\n\n\n\nGuests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/sutton-filmmakers-spooktacular-part-2/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/LOTC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260120T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260120T221500
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20260108T083702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T084152Z
UID:7101-1768938300-1768947300@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:January Club Social Meal
DESCRIPTION:Rather than trying to squeeze a Christmas meal into a hectic month\, we’re having a more relaxed club social meal in January\, when it’s usually easier to book and nicer to chat. \n\n\n\nOn Tuesday 20 January we will not be holding our usual meeting. Instead\, we’ll meet at 7:45pm at ECO\, 23 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Sutton SM3 8BH (just opposite the club). \n\n\n\nI’ve booked a table for 20 people to start with\, and the restaurant can expand the booking if we have more members who want to join. \n\n\n\nClub members will receive a £5 subsidy towards their meal (members only). \n\n\n\nIf you’d like to come along\, please reply to the club email by end of day 13 January so we can confirm numbers with the restaurant. \n\n\n\nEco Menu
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/january-club-social-meal/
LOCATION:ECO\, 23 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Sutton SM3 8BH\, 23 The Broadway\, Sutton\, SM3 8BH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/LOTC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260203T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260203T220000
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20260128T005535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T011536Z
UID:7110-1770147900-1770156000@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Focusing and Camera Movement Evening
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Tom McDaniel  \n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for a practical club night looking at camera movement and focusing techniques\, the sort of stuff that can quietly lift a scene from “fine” to “that feels like a film”. \n\n\n\nEver wanted to pull off an exciting move that has that blockbuster energy\, or tried to block actors only to realise the focus has drifted the moment they take a step? This evening is about getting more confident with the basics that make movement work\, keeping shots usable\, and understanding what’s actually happening when focus goes right\, or wrong. \n\n\n\nWe’ll run through a handful of classic camera moves and explore how to execute them cleanly\, with simple\, repeatable approaches. Alongside that\, we’ll look at practical ways to keep the action in focus while the camera is moving and the performers are moving\, which is usually where things start to unravel. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIt’s a hands on session\, so expect to watch\, try\, adjust\, then try again. The aim is to leave with a better feel for how to plan a move\, how to place people for it\, and how to focus in a way that supports the shot rather than fighting it. \n\n\n\nNon-members welcome for the evening (first two nights free as our guests) Here is how to find us \n\n\n\nDate: Tuesday 3rd February 2026Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/focusing-and-camera-movement/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/scene_recreation_night-768.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260217T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260217T220000
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20260128T015148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T184031Z
UID:7126-1771357500-1771365600@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Col Spector\, 8 Rules For Shooting A Documentary
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Col Spector \n\n\n\n\n\nWe’re delighted to welcome Col Spector to the club for a talk on something most of us only learn the hard way\, how to shoot a documentary that actually turns into a film\, not just a pile of interesting footage. \n\n\n\nCol has worked across documentary\, commercials and fiction\, and he’s known for being both practical and refreshingly direct. This evening he’ll be sharing his “8 rules” for documentary making\, the kind of rules that stop you drifting\, keep you honest about what you’re trying to say\, and give you a structure you can lean on when the shoot starts throwing surprises at you. \n\n\n\nCol Spector set up documentary consultancy to help documentary filmmakers make emotionally engaging films that get seen and launch their careers. Using the principles/guidelines that he developed throughout his career as a documentary maker at the BBC\, Col has worked with hundreds of early career directors helping them turn their ideas into films that have been commissioned and screened on the BBC\, Netflix and many top tier film festivals. See some testimonials from filmmakers Col has helped and for more about how he can help you at www.thedocumentaryconsultant.com \n\n\n\nThis is not a technical talk about cameras\, lenses\, or kit. It’s about decisions\, focus\, and storytelling. The invisible stuff that makes the difference between a documentary that feels alive\, and one that feels like it never quite gets going. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat You’ll Take Away\n\n\n\n\nA clearer way to start\, so you’re not “finding the film” three months into the edit\n\n\n\nHow to shape a documentary around an idea without strangling the real life out of it\n\n\n\nWhy a documentary needs tension\, development\, and a dramatic arc\, even when it’s truthful\n\n\n\nHow to hold a critical point of view\, without turning your film into a lecture\n\n\n\nA simple framework you can use on your next project\, whether it’s 5 minutes or 50\n\n\n\n\nCol will introduce the rules\, unpack the thinking behind them\, and share examples of how they show up in the real world of shooting and editing. You’ll come away with plenty to try\, and probably a couple of uncomfortable realisations too\, in a good way. \n\n\n\nThere’ll be time for questions at the end\, so if you’ve got a documentary idea you’ve been circling for ages\, or you’ve started one and hit the familiar “do I actually have a film here?” moment\, bring that with you. \n\n\n\nNon-members welcome for the evening (first two nights free as our guests) Here is how to find us \n\n\n\nDate: Tuesday 17 February 2026Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/shooting-a-documentary/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Col-Spector.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Col Spector":MAILTO:colspector@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260303T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260303T220000
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20260128T013642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T184140Z
UID:7123-1772567100-1772575200@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Acting And Auditioning Workshop With Sara Jordan
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Sara Jordan \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSara Jordan is running a practical\, hands on acting and auditioning workshop  for anyone who wants to feel more confident in auditions\, and more grounded in their acting choices. \n\n\n\nThis is not a sit back and listen kind of evening. Expect plenty of exercises\, short explorations\, and supportive feedback as you work on what casting people and directors actually respond to\, believable character\, clear choices\, and an actor who feels present rather than “performed”. \n\n\n\nWhat We’ll Explore\n\n\n\nFinding character and authenticity\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou’ll work through simple\, repeatable exercises that help you build a character with truth at the centre\, not just a collection of mannerisms. The aim is to feel connected to what the character wants\, what they fear\, what they’re protecting\, and then let that inner world shape everything else. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nBuilding a character from the ground up\n\n\n\nSara will guide you through how movement and voice naturally grow out of character\, rather than being added on top. You’ll explore posture\, pace\, gesture\, rhythm\, breath\, and vocal tone\, and how small physical choices can make a character feel specific without becoming forced or “put on”. \n\n\n\nUnderstanding your casting type\n\n\n\nThis bit is often surprisingly useful. You’ll look at the kinds of roles you’re most realistically likely to be cast in right now\, and how to lean into that strategically\, without boxing yourself in forever. It’s about knowing where you fit in the casting landscape so you can show up with clearer choices and less second guessing. \n\n\n\nHow auditions really work\n\n\n\nWe’ll cover what directors tend to look for\, what helps you stand out in a good way\, and what quietly undermines an audition even when the acting is solid. You’ll also focus on how to present yourself well in the room\, how to take direction\, and how to keep your nerves from hijacking your performance. \n\n\n\nWho It’s For\n\n\n\nThis workshop is suitable for beginners who want a practical starting point\, and for more experienced actors who want to sharpen their audition technique and make their character choices feel more grounded and intentional. \n\n\n\n\nIf you’ve ever left an audition thinking “I could do it\, but I didn’t show it”\, this evening is basically for you. \n\n\n\n\nNon-members welcome for the evening (first two nights free as our guests) Here is how to find us \n\n\n\nDate: Tuesday 3rd March 2026Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/acting-and-auditioning/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Sara-Jordan-Screen-Acting-Workshop.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260317T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260317T220000
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20260128T011413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T183823Z
UID:7114-1773776700-1773784800@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:Film In A Night Evening - One Concept\, Told In Multiple Genres
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Adrian Dean\n\n\n\nOne Concept\, Told In Multiple Genres\n\n\n\n\n\nOn 18 March\, Adrian Dean is running a Film In A Night challenge built around a simple idea\, one concept told in multiple genres. We’ll split into teams and be given a basic plot plus a genre to tackle it in.  \n\n\n\nEach group will then discuss and plan quickly before going off to shoot their idea\, aiming to edit in camera so we can screen a finished film to the rest of the club at the end. \n\n\n\nNo pressure\, just a fun\, practical evening of filmmaking with friends\, and a great way to see how much genre comes from choices\, not budget. \n\n\n\nSee our other events here \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFilm In A Night Evening – One Concept\, Told In Multiple Genres\n\n\n\nIn a film in a night challenge the teams that finish strong usually do one thing early\, they commit. Not to perfection\, just to a clear direction. \n\n\n\nStart with three quick agreements: \n\n\n\n\nGenre Promise\, what do you want the audience to feel most\, amused\, tense\, unsettled\, warm\, suspicious\n\n\n\nGenre Signal\, pick one obvious “tell” you can lean on all the way through\, sound\, lighting\, performance style\, pacing\, camera movement\n\n\n\nFinal Beat\, decide what the last moment is meant to land like\, so you’re always shooting towards something\n\n\n\n\nThen keep the rest ruthlessly simple. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTime Saving Tips That Actually Work On The Night\n\n\n\nPlanning can drift into a mini writers room if you let it\, so for a film in a night challenge give yourselves a few constraints and stick to them. \n\n\n\n\nLimit locations\n\n\n\nOne location is ideal\, two at most. Moving between places eats time\, and it’s where continuity and sound start falling apart.\n\n\n\nKeep the shot list small\n\n\n\n\nAim for around 6 to 10 shots. If you’re listing 20\, you’re probably trying to cover uncertainty rather than telling the story. One strong wide and a couple of close ups will do a lot of heavy lifting. \n\n\n\nAssign “owners” even if roles overlap\n\n\n\nSomeone watches sound\, someone watches framing\, someone watches continuity. People can double up\, but it helps if each area has a name attached to it. \n\n\n\nRehearse the blocking once\n\n\n\nA quick walk through of where people stand\, where they move\, and where the camera is\, saves more time than repeating takes later. \n\n\n\nIf you get stuck\, go more obvious\n\n\n\nFilm In A Night is not the moment for subtle genre. Make the genre clearer than you think it needs to be\, especially in the first 20 to 30 seconds. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat Editing In Camera Means\n\n\n\nEditing in camera means you’re assembling the film as you shoot\, rather than collecting lots of coverage and building it later. In practical terms\, you film only what you intend to use\, and where possible you shoot shots in the order you want them to appear. \n\n\n\nIt’s a great approach for this kind of challenge because it keeps things moving\, and it stops the evening turning into a long laptop session. \n\n\n\nYou might also want to read how to get it right colour wise in camera \n\n\n\nHow To Get Editing In Camera Right\n\n\n\n\nShoot in sequence where you can\n\n\n\nIf your story beat order is A then B then C\, try to film in that order. It reduces confusion and makes the “assembled” version feel natural.\n\n\n\nGive every shot a clean start and finish\n\n\n\nHit record\, hold for a second\, let the action happen\, hold for a second at the end. Those little handles make it much easier to stitch together quickly.\n\n\n\nCut on actions\, not on words\n\n\n\nPeople turning\, standing\, picking something up\, reacting\, these are natural cut points. Cutting mid line can work\, but only if you’re doing it deliberately.\n\n\n\nFewer takes\, but one safety take\n\n\n\nDo not chase perfection\, but if a take felt messy\, do one more while you’re there. “We’ll fix it later” is how Film In A Night projects die.\n\n\n\n\nPrioritise sound\n\n\n\nClear dialogue makes a film feel finished. Get close enough to the actors\, do a quick listen back before you move on\, and avoid noisy corners if you can. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAt The End Of The Night\n\n\n\nWe’ll bring the films back together and watch them as a group. Same basic plot\, different genres\, different choices\, and a lot of laughs\, plus you’ll probably pick up a few tricks just from seeing how other teams tackled the same starting point.
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/film-in-a-night/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Adrian-Dean-in-action.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260407T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260407T220000
DTSTAMP:20260408T113005
CREATED:20260128T172619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T084930Z
UID:7139-1775591100-1775599200@suttonfilm.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Basics Of Film Editing
DESCRIPTION:Session led by Peter Leverick \n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’ve ever sat in front of a timeline and thought\, “I know what I want this scene to do\, but it’s not landing”\, this evening is for you. We’re keeping it simple and practical\, a night focused on the basics of film editing and the core decisions that make a sequence feel clear\, natural\, and emotionally right. \n\n\n\nWe’ll work through the three questions that sit underneath almost every edit: \n\n\n\nWhen to cut\n\n\n\nSometimes the cut is obvious. Sometimes it’s a tiny moment you can’t quite describe\, but you can feel it. We’ll explore the cues that tell you it’s time to move on\, pace\, performance\, energy\, eye movement\, and even breathing. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhy to cut\n\n\n\nCuts aren’t just there to shorten things. They shape meaning. They control what the audience notices\, what they miss\, what they expect\, and how they feel. We’ll look at the most common reasons for cutting\, to tighten rhythm\, to hide problems\, to heighten emotion\, to build tension\, to reveal information at exactly the right time. \n\n\n\nWhat to cut to\n\n\n\nThis is where the basics of film editing starts to feel like storytelling rather than assembling shots. We’ll look at how choosing the next shot can change the mood of a scene\, and how different choices can make the same material feel funny\, unsettling\, calm\, or urgent. \n\n\n\nWe’ll also look at how the basics of film editing shift depending on genre\, because genre is basically a set of audience expectations\, and editing is one of the quickest ways to meet those expectations\, or deliberately play against them. We’ll talk through a few common genres and the sort of cutting style they tend to lean on: \n\n\n\n\nComedy\, timing\, reaction shots\, and how a fraction of a second can make a joke work\, or kill it\n\n\n\nHorror\, controlling what the audience sees\, when they see it\, and how cutting can create dread before anything even happens\n\n\n\nDrama\, staying with performance\, letting moments breathe\, and knowing when not to cut\n\n\n\nSuspense\, tightening the rope slowly\, using pace and withholding information to keep the audience leaning forward\n\n\n\n\nPeter Leverick will also focus on one of the most useful skills an editor develops\, knowing whether the cut feels right. Often the editor’s first clue is simply that something feels off. It might be a timing issue\, too early\, too late\, not held long enough\, or it might be something else entirely\, a mismatch in energy\, a performance beat that’s been cut away\, or a moment that needs a different shot to make the scene make sense emotionally. Peter will share ways to spot what’s actually wrong\, so you’re not just nudging clips around at random. \n\n\n\nWe’ll also cover a couple of common cut types that editors use all the time\, including J cuts and L cuts\, and why you might use them. They’re simple techniques\, but they’re surprisingly powerful for smoothing transitions\, pulling the audience into the next moment\, and making scenes feel more natural without the edit drawing attention to itself. \n\n\n\nThis is a hands on learning night in the sense that it’s all about real decision making\, the sort of stuff you can immediately apply to your own projects\, whether you’re editing on a phone\, a laptop\, or a full editing suite. If you’re new to editing\, it’ll give you a foundation. If you’ve edited a bit already\, it’ll help you understand why some sequences work and others don’t\, even when the footage is decent. \n\n\n\nCome along and sharpen up your instincts\, get clearer on the basics of film editing\, and leave with a few practical ideas you can try the very next time you sit down to edit. \n\n\n\n\n\nNon-members welcome for the evening (first two nights free as our guests) Here is how to find us \n\n\n\nDate: Tuesday 7th April 2026Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm
URL:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/basics-of-film-editing/
LOCATION:Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms\, 42 The Broadway\, Cheam\, Surrey\, SM3 8BL\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://suttonfilm.co.uk/cms/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Peter-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR