The Film Files Club's Workshop Series is back with another hands-on session and, this time, we’re focusing on directing.
About the workshop
Our Workshop Series is back with another session — and this time, we’re focusing on directing.
The Directors’ Lab is our first workshop dedicated entirely to the role of the director, designed to break down what directing actually involves — beyond the surface-level idea of “having a vision.” This isn’t a talk or a panel. It’s a working room.
Across the day, you’ll move through the full process of directing — from first reading a script, to working with actors on set, to shaping a scene in the edit — with guidance from two directors who are actively working in the industry.
We built this workshop because there’s often a lot of confusion around what a director actually does, and how you begin building a career in it.
Questions like:
- how do I find clients?
- how do I get paid to direct?
- what does representation actually mean?
- how do you move from small projects into bigger opportunities?
This is a space to get into those properly and honestly.
What you’ll do on the day
The workshop is structured around doing, not just listening. You’ll be working in small groups, trying things out, and getting feedback throughout.
PRE-PRODUCTION
- Breaking down a script — what the scene is really about
- Identifying tone, pacing, subtext and intention
- Turning ideas into a practical plan (shotlists, blocking, locations)
- Preparing for tech recces and production meetings
ON SET / DIRECTING ACTORS
- How to communicate with actors in a way that actually helps
- Building trust quickly
- Giving clear, playable direction
- Handling nerves, resistance, and time pressure
- Making decisions when things don’t go to plan
POST-PRODUCTION
- What the director’s role is in the edit
- Working with editors
- Shaping performance after the shoot
- Understanding what to cut and why
CAREER & SUSTAINABILITY
- How directors actually get their first opportunities
- Building a reel and a voice without waiting for permission
- Networking and finding collaborators
- Representation: what it is, when it matters, how it happens
- Navigating freelance life (money, gaps, momentum)
Who this is for
This workshop is for you if:
- you want to direct but don’t know where to start
- you’re already directing and want to develop your process
- you feel stuck between theory and actually doing it
- you didn’t come through film school or traditional routes
- you want honest, practical insight into how the industry works
No specific experience level is required, just curiosity and a willingness to get involved. The aim is for you to leave with practical tools you can actually use, and a clearer sense of your next steps.
Meet the directors
Born and raised in Aylesbury, Harv started out shooting low-budget music videos and working as a runner — learning by doing and figuring things out on set. She’s since gone on to direct music videos and creative campaigns for some of the UK’s most exciting artists, constantly experimenting with style and approach. Her work spans everything from album films for The Last Dinner Party to visuals for Laufey’s Grammy-winning record, and continues to push into new creative and commercial spaces.
Chioma is a Black-British writer/director working across film, fashion and commercial work. She began as a runner before moving into production roles across projects for Sky, ITV and ViacomCBS. Her debut short Goodbye Train, backed by the Roundhouse Film Fund, screened at BAFTA- and BIFA-qualifying festivals and picked up multiple awards. Alongside her own work, she’s worked as a Director’s Assistant on campaigns for brands like Burberry and Birkenstock, while continuing to develop her voice and tell underrepresented stories.
What you’ll leave with
By the end of the workshop, you’ll:
- have a clearer understanding of what a director actually does across the full process
- feel more confident making creative decisions
- have practical tools you can apply straight away
- better understand how to start (or continue) building a directing career
- leave with a clearer sense of your next steps
🎟️ Limited spaces available (20 people)!
Accessibility
The workshop will take place at The Bath House, 80 Eastway, Hackney Wick, E9 5JH.
The venue is partially wheelchair accessible, with step-free access to key areas (including The Classroom) via a platform lift. There is also a wheelchair-accessible, gender-neutral toilet on site.
The nearest station is Hackney Wick (approx. 12-minute walk), with nearby bus stops within a short walking distance. Drop-offs can be arranged directly outside the venue, and limited parking may be available on request.
Seating varies depending on the space, but chairs with back support are available, and alternative seating can be arranged if needed — please let us know in advance.
Assistance animals are welcome. Please note that the venue does not currently have an induction loop system, and BSL or live captioning is not provided as standard.
Lighting and temperature levels may vary throughout the day, and some areas of the venue are accessed via steps or lifts.
If you have specific access requirements or questions, please get in touch in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate: [email protected].
How to Apply
General Admission and Student / Concession tickets are available at this link: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/filmfilesclub1/2162131.
While we have publicised this opportunity, please note that: (i) the application and selection process is managed by the advertising company/organisation; and (ii) we rely on them to: provide accurate, up-to-date details about themselves and the opportunity; ensure that opportunities are ethical and paid fairly. To report a listing, please email [email protected].
