USC School of Cinema-Television Holds Special Filmmaking Workshop in Jordan

Under a new relationship with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, through the auspices of His Majesty King Abdullah II and the Royal Film Commission, the School of Cinema-Television has recently concluded a successful three-week workshop in Amman, Jordan. Two fulltime faculty--associate professors Norman Hollyn and Helaine Head plus cinematographer Tom Curran, taught classes in cinematography, directing, writing and editing. Over the three-week period, the 12 students completed two video projects each in which they learned the technical and creative elements of camerawork, directing actors, narrative writing, and non-linear editing.

The students, ranging in age from 21-30, attended classes six days a week, and spent much of that time in hands-on instruction. The Royal Film Commission selected the students, many of whom were working in production for the first time, but all of them hoping to be involved in the growth of Jordan's filmmaking industry.

The impetus for the workshop and a more extensive involvement with the Film Commission began more than a year ago when Cinema-Television Board of Councilor's member Steven Spielberg introduced Dean Elizabeth Daley to King Abdullah II, and she subsequently met with the two principals of the Royal Film Commission, Samer Mouasher and Nadine toukan. Future projects are now being planned.