Get addicted to writing
The Independent Film School
• ALL-ACCESS Pass •
Ivy-league quality education. Artist-friendly prices.
Featured alumni films, in order of appearance: Graham Northrup, Nina Gielen, Richard Joseph, Nadhege Ptah, Lea Kalisch, Dylan Rogers, Rocío Mendez, Leslie Tô, Shane Andries, Meg Jenkins, Ekwa Msangi, Rodrigo Carvalhedo, Jamie Canobbio, Stephanie Williams, Amy Tompkins, Noelle P. Wilson, Andrew Hartfield, Fianna Litvok, Ghadah Alrawi, Isabelle Pierre, Nazli Sarpkaya, Cary Patric Martin, Memo, Nabil Viñas
Your all-access pass includes:
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all flagship courses
Lifetime of skill building with self-paced courses that demystify and inspire: in screenwriting, producing, film directing.
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Monthly challenges
Never get stuck again. Complete a new, 6-part challenge each month. Build skills and momentum in just 10 minutes a day.
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DON'T GO IT ALONE
Access our community for guidance, accountability, networking, and applause!
Say Hello to Your Flow
our greatest goals are achieved
in baby steps
Slowing down is the fastest way to achieve most goals. Stalling is often the result of pursuing too big a goal, too soon.
monthly challenges
· change your life 10 minutes at a time ·
New 6-day challenge every month. Complete in 6 days, or space it out over the month.
Each challenge incorporates sections of courses, to help you work through material.
Community space to share your progress and thrive along with peers.
I finished an MFA in creative writing in 2016 and floundered for years. It wasn't until I started studying with you that I found my groove.
In the last 6 months I have written a handful of shorts, finished an essay collection and drafted a trilogy of novels. It has been truly life changing.
In the last 6 months I have written a handful of shorts, finished an essay collection and drafted a trilogy of novels. It has been truly life changing.
Shelli Spotts
Ever enroll in a course and then not use it?
WARNING: You’re about to find out what happens when you show up for yourself.
My flagship courses offer a lifetime of learning. The bite-sized challenges that you’ll receive each month will move you through courses – at your pace. No rush.
THE WRITING SUITE
· 4 courses ·
Eliminate writing blocks, find your voice, and discover stories that only YOU could write.
- Modules: 3
- Units: 19
- Runtime: 1hr 49min
- Average video length: 6min
- Format: Short videos with cheat sheets & exercises
Learn how to make audiences laugh, cry. Write scripts that readers can’t stop thinking about.
- Modules: 1
- Units: 10
- Runtime: 1hr 32min
- Average video length: 9 min
- Format: Short videos with movie clips, cheat sheets & exercises
Everything you need to know to present as a professional screenwriter.
- Modules: 3
- Units: 11
- Runtime: 43min
- Average video length: 6min
- Format: Short videos, PDF’s, sample scripts
The only 3 story tools you’ll need to turn inspired writing into well crafted page turners!
- Modules: 7
- Units: 41
- Runtime: 5hr 5min
- Average video length: 8min
- Format: Short videos, PDF worksheets & exercises
Community announcement as you complete each course.
Certificate of completion when you complete all four screenwriting courses.
From screenwriting, to directing and producing, I’ve learned so much, in an engaging, fun, and cre-ACTIVE way.
I love the monthly 6-day challenge as the perfect hands-on complement to the courses. It really helps keep the creative momentum going. The monthly meetings and the Slack community create a strong sense of connection and accountability.
Gives me hope, inspiration, a creative spark, confidence, and I love the community.
I love the monthly 6-day challenge as the perfect hands-on complement to the courses. It really helps keep the creative momentum going. The monthly meetings and the Slack community create a strong sense of connection and accountability.
Gives me hope, inspiration, a creative spark, confidence, and I love the community.
Melissa Mars
no time?
When it comes to creative work, you’ll never find time. You must make time.
GIVE YOUR CREATIVITY 3 MINUTES A DAY. OR 10 MINUTES A WEEK! Spend more time if you wish, but getting started is the hard part. Showing up at all, for any amount of time, is the difference between a satisfied and a frustrated artist.
THE FILM DIRECTING SUITE
· 5 Courses ·
Understand scene coverage and the ABC’s of shot planning.
- Modules: 1
- Units: 8
- Runtime: 1hr 11min
- Average video length: 10min
- Format: Short talks, demonstrations, movie clips, exercises.
Elevate every shot, in every film, regardless of budget.
- Modules: 2
- Units: 9
- Runtime: 48min
- Average video length: 7min
- Format: Short talks, demonstrations, movie clips, exercises.
Economize your shoot while raising production value, by fully utilizing the creative possibilities of the moving image.
- Modules: 5
- Units: 31
- Runtime: 1hr 51min
- Average video length: 4min
- Format: Short talks, demonstrations, movie clips, exercises.
The complete toolbox to achieving believable, authentic, unique, and engaging performances – every time.
- Modules: 1
- Units: 10
- Runtime: 1hr 56min
- Average video length: 11min
- Format: Short talks, demonstrations, and a master cheat sheet.
Watch the tools put to practice by sitting inside my brain, as I work with actors through the rehearsal process. I explain what I’m doing and why with every step.
- Modules: 8
- Units: 38
- Runtime: 5hr 19min
- Average video length: 9min
- Format: PDF of scenes, demo rehearsals, talks, short exercises.
Community announcement as you complete each course.
Certificate of completion when you complete all film directing courses.
fun is the most efficient use of our time
Ela offers a new and different 6-day challenge every month, and I participate every time because I know that in such a short time (6 days!) I'll experience a quantum leap as a screenwriter and filmmaker.
Thank you Ela for this container, thank you Eileen [our community manager] for all the love and encouragement. And thank you to the IFS Community for all the emojis and cheering each other on! It really gets done knowing we are doing this with others!
Thank you Ela for this container, thank you Eileen [our community manager] for all the love and encouragement. And thank you to the IFS Community for all the emojis and cheering each other on! It really gets done knowing we are doing this with others!
Rasika Mathur
THE FILM EDITING SUITE
· 2 Courses ·
Become a more powerful filmmaker by learning to edit.
- Modules: 8
- Units: 34
- Runtime: 4hr 18min
- Average video length: 8min
- Format: Short talks, demonstrations, and exercises with downloadable footage for your use.
Take a front seat to my cutting room and watch me edit in real time.
- Modules: 2
- Units: 10
- Runtime: 4hr 46min
- Average video length: 29min
- Format: I share my screen as I edit and explain what I’m doing. Includes interviews with professional editors.
Community announcement as you complete each course.
Certificate of completion when you complete all film editing courses.
Financial considerations?
If you can’t afford the IFS All-Access Pass, stick around in my email list for many free resources. That said:
The IFS All-Access Pass is equivalent to what the average American spends on coffee.
Also (pssst!) my course on raising money and resources for films is included. Filmmakers who follow my guidance regularly raise ten times the cost of this program.
THE FILM PRODUCTION SUITE
· 7 Courses ·
Become the producer you’ve been waiting for. You already have everything that you need to create your next film; I’ll show you how.
- Modules: 4
- Units: 18
- Runtime: 3hr 20min
- Average video length: 10min
- Format: Short video lectures, cheat sheets and exercises.
Receive the step-by-step roadmap that I’ve used myself and have seen hundreds of my students use successfully, to raise money and resources for our films.
- Modules: 3
- Units: 2
- Runtime: 2hr 41min
- Average video length: 10min
- Format: Short video lectures, cheat sheets and exercises.
Whether it’s studio execs or a neighbor with a camera: your collaborators are looking for you. Help them find you by making your work (and yourself!) irresistible.
- Modules: 5
- Units: 16
- Runtime: 3hr
- Average video length: 10min
- Format: Short video lectures and cheat sheets.
Know how to budget, schedule, and crew your self-produced films.
- Modules: 3
- Units: 25
- Runtime: 2hr 43min
- Average video length: 7min
- Format: Short video lectures and cheat sheets.
Your audience is waiting for your film. Help them find it. Learn how to build niche audiences; fully utilize the festival circuit for maximum buzz; and get an overview of distribution roadmaps.
- Modules: 3
- Units: 11
- Runtime: 3hr 19min
- Average video length: 18min
- Format: Short video lectures and cheat sheets.
Downloadable contracts, templates, links. All the production resources that you might need at your fingertips.
- Modules: 3
- Units: 24
- Runtime: N/A
- Average video length: N/A
- Format: Downloadable docs, spreadsheets, and PDF’s, along with pertinent links to external resources.
From micro-budgets to 7-figure productions: if, when, and how. Created by Ela Thier and producer Nicholas Tabarrok (COMING 2026.)
- Modules: 2
- Units: 10
- Runtime: TBD
- Average video length: TBD
- Format: Short video lectures and cheat sheets.
Community announcement as you complete each course.
Certificate of completion when you complete all producing courses.
Your future self thanks you
I had lofty ideals of being able to go it alone. But not so. The IFS Studio, the camaraderie, the monthly challenges, the incredible curriculum in the course itself all serve to keep me focused, supported, and most importantly, working daily towards achieving my goals.
I've read all the books, taken courses, even went to college, but nothing worked as well as the IFS community to make my filmmaking & screenwriting dreams a reality.
I'm grateful to Ela's wisdom, her open heart, and the incredible community here for keeping me on track at a pace that is manageable and rewarding.
Ingeniously designed to foster learning through doing. I’m having so much fun.
I've read all the books, taken courses, even went to college, but nothing worked as well as the IFS community to make my filmmaking & screenwriting dreams a reality.
I'm grateful to Ela's wisdom, her open heart, and the incredible community here for keeping me on track at a pace that is manageable and rewarding.
Ingeniously designed to foster learning through doing. I’m having so much fun.
Malcolm Taylor
creative blocks are the result of isolation
It’s tricky to challenge isolation because we’re used to it; it’s like asking a fish to see water. But reality is:
Isolation is the foremost reason that we feel blocked, overwhelmed, or unmotivated.
Online courses are effective when they include community.
THE IFS COMMUNITY
· artists succeed in clusters ·
THE IFS STUDIO
Live co-working space (on zoom). Get focused on your creative work while making friends – even if you’re super shy. We have both facilitated and peer-run sessions in our virtual co-working space.
Moderated online group
A curated Slack workspace. Slack works like a facebook group – but it’s more effective. Be ready to build your network. We know how to motivate and help forge relationships.
Monthly live sessions
Monthly sessions (that aren’t boring!) Join our monthly live group sessions with Ela Thier, or a guest industry professional. Get inspired, receive live guidance, and meet potential collaborators.
goal setting course
Receive the goal-setting tools that I’ve used for over 20 years to build a thriving career as a filmmaker.
- Modules: 1
- Units: 4
- Runtime: 46min
- Average video length: 11min
- Format: Short video lectures and exercises.
Ela offers the most comprehensive and in depth training I have ever come across.
She, and the IFS community, have changed my life as a filmmaker and artist. I highly recommend making this a priority! You won't regret it.
Amy TOmpkins
help your collaborators find you
Ivy-League quality film school at $3.20/day
Writing Suite
$997
Monthly challenges
$997
Film Producing Suite
$1497
Live Co-working space
$197
Film Directing Suite
$1997
Moderated Slack Workspace
$250
Film Editing Suite
$497
Monthly live sessions
$250
Goal setting for Artists
$297
Enjoying your creativity
priceless
Total value $6985
Your fee $97/mo
FAQ'S
Indeed, the total value of the All Access Pass is well over $6K, yet we’re charging just $97/month. Two reasons:
Firstly, I want these programs and courses to be widely accessible.
Secondly, I’m so confident in what you’ll get out of the experience that I know you’ll want to stick around for years. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
The first payment includes a 7-day refund window. Subsequent payments are not refundable, though you can cancel your pass at any point to stop future charges. Easily.
If you cancel your pass, you’ll lose access to the perks and features that come with it: the courses, monthly challenges, slack space, IFS Studio, monthly live sessions.
If you rejoin us in the future, progress made on any of the courses will reappear in your dashboard.
** If you purchased lifetime access to any of our courses in the past, you won’t lose access to those.
Amen. I’ve enrolled in so many that I’ve never used. Who’s got time? And most of them are boring and dry.
IFS courses are engaging, bite-sized, well organized, and built for action.
Additionally, each month, the 6-day challenges will give you the option to jump in for just 10 minutes and make progress, or dive deeper by working through entire courses – at your own pace.
We’ll help you put one foot in front of the other and stay at it.
We offer accountability and support you won’t find ANYWHERE else at this price point. Not by a long shot.
You have access to all courses as long as you have an All Access Pass.
You can binge through them marathon-style and knock out each course in a couple of weekends, or take your time and work on your schedule. View them as the lifetime learning opportunity that they are.
As you dive in, you’ll find a rhythm that works best for you. We’ll help.
We provide multiple layers of support and accountability:
Private Slack Workspace – for connecting, sharing, and accountability. If you haven’t used Slack, it’s like a Facebook group, but way more effective – and without the distractions of social media.
- IFS Studio & Live Sessions – The IFS Studio (our live co-working space) and monthly live sessions, are additional ways to connect, get motivated, and build relationships – the ultimate ingredient in making progress.
We also offer the option to acquire an IFS Coaching Pass for feedback on work and direct guidance, if you want to invest more and work with our coaches.
I’m not aware of any space that offers this level of support at this price point. Whether you prefer peer support, structured accountability, or personalized coaching, we’re here for it.
The IFS Studio is a live, co-working space (on zoom). During facilitated sessions, you can join a small breakout room on the hour to connect with fellow creatives. The space helps focus, while removing isolation.
Outside facilitated sessions, it’s a 24/7 peer-run communal work space. Students have used it to gather writing groups and in many other ways.
Use the IFS Studio to build a daily writing practice, tackle challenges, work through a course – or fold laundry…? I’ve used it to get many things done 🙂
Brand new 6-Day Challenge = First Thursday of each month.
Live Group Coaching Call = Second Thursday of each month.
Live sessions are usually led by Ela Thier, and meet for an hour at 8:30pm ET / 5:30pm PT.
Then you’re exactly who this program is for. No prior experience is assumed. Our community is the perfect place to dip your toes in and figure out how much further you want to go. Come on in, the water’s warm! 🤿
My courses and challenges are designed for all levels; I’ve often seen the more experienced writers and filmmakers get even more out of them.
You’ll continue to build skills and move forward in unexpected ways. As a lifelong student myself, with numerous features under my belt, I guarantee that you’ll enjoy the ride.
About your instructor, Ela Thier
I’ve written, directed, and produced several award-winning features and many shorts. I’m in post production on 109 Billion Followers, with Oscar winning actor J.K. Simmons, and Tony-winner Nina Arianda. I’m currently slated to direct two feature films with notable actors and collaborators. You can view my filmography on IMDB.
Since 2006, I’ve guided thousands of screenwriters and filmmakers in varying ways, and proven time and again that to thrive, what artists need are skills, community, encouragement, and guidance from someone who believes in them and holds out high expectations.
It’s been a highlight of my life to have launched careers of fellow artists.
you won’t • you will
- Sit through boring lectures
- Get inspired
- Check off "should's"
- Find your voice
- Get overwhelmed
- Take baby steps
- Settle for low standards
- Gain mastery of craft
- Evaluate creativity
- Enjoy & respect creativity
- Get cut by competition
- Receive and offer support
- Remain stuck and isolated
- Build a network & thrive
- Wait for greenlights
- Put work on the screen
- Chase fame and riches
- Have an impact and enjoy your life
The Independent Film School's All Access Pass has been a huge help in lighting a fire under me.
I had already been writing. But actually DOING something with those scripts. Uh.. no thank you! With Ela’s teaching, and the encouragement from the community, I’ve been making films and taking steps forward in my career!
I had already been writing. But actually DOING something with those scripts. Uh.. no thank you! With Ela’s teaching, and the encouragement from the community, I’ve been making films and taking steps forward in my career!
Eric Thomure
Your creativity needs a home
• APPRECIATIONS •
Since 2006, we’ve received thousands of appreciations. Below is a tiny fraction of them:
I’m so thankful for this community and for the IFS studio. Thank you Ela for creating this space! … This has helped me to start writing and I use it as accountability to set aside the time for my creativity. It’s easy to let life go by and let our art fall to the way side, but creating is what ultimately ignited my soul. Such a great group of humans! Thank you.
– Monique Efta
I love the monthly challenges because in practice they illustrate the somewhat surprising truth that it is the doing that teaches us and moves us forward. No matter what level of ability, at the end of the six day challenge, simply by having made the effort to complete each daily task, you will understand something more fully, find out something is easier than you imagined, and feel more confident about the next opportunity.
– Patti Maher
I SO appreciate this community – just knowing there’s a kickass group of filmmakers at my fingertips is such a comfort when I’m trying to move through pre-production.
Love seeing all our wins and how we engage with each other. I’m continually inspired.
– Lauren Shaw
The IFS Studio gives me peace of mind because I know I will get something done. I’ve made friendships during work sessions. It’s inspiring to see people working alongside you, slowly building an actual body of work.
– Dan Matthews
Today I was almost late for work because I didn’t want to stop writing. I haven’t felt this way in a very long time.
– Angela Murray
Best writing course I have ever taken in my life; much more fruitful and comprehensive than most of my writing classes in film school. Finally, someone who teaches practical means and not vague concepts!
– Takashi Hori
Work sessions have provided structure to my creative life. In the past, I would start to write rigorously and that would last a minute and a half. The regular sessions have made all the difference. I’ve found a work partner and every Saturday we do a 2-hour session and often find ourselves on a roll and going longer.
– Deb Farrar-Parkman
Work sessions have been helping not just with productivity but with a boost in self esteem for showing up. I’m inspired by the gentle accountability of this community. The money I spend on the subscription is less than I’ve spent on writing at coffee shops where I’d stare at strangers and pretend to be writing.
– Dragonfly
Life, inertia, and everyday distractions have this way of sapping my resolve, commitment, and energy to keep putting in the hours needed to see a project through. I have the work sessions in my calendar and because of that, I somehow take my writing time more seriously.
I know I just need to show up, and even if I’m feeling lost/stuck/purposeless, I usually end up feeling encouraged by other creatives when we do the listening pairs. Because I show up, little steps of progress are made. Every time.
– Willow
I’m an actor who has been branching out into writing, producing and directing. I’m very careful about where I spend my time. I’ve been attending work sessions every weekday morning …and I love them. They get me in front of the computer and down to work every day. It’s amazing what comes out. I love the community, I’m getting to know people, and it feels really good. We are supporting each other’s creativity and learning from each other. I can’t thank you enough.
– Cynthia Preston
Although I attended a world-renowned film school, my career began once I found Ela.
– Ekwa Msangi
The most informative course I have ever taken [on] writing…. You have challenged me to expand my horizons.
– Jennifer Stonestreet
The training was incredible! Ela was fantastic at explaining both the theory and practical aspects of film. Her direct yet gentle teaching style encourages to practice without fear.
– Graciela Cassel
Guiding actors to performances that are effortless is truly an art form, and Ela is truly a master! She’s what every actor would love a director to be.
– Matthew Murumba
I have an MFA in Film & Television, and Ela Thier is the single best directing teacher I have ever seen. I’ve never witnessed a director bring a scene to life the way she did, and she did it repeatedly.
Now I need to rethink everything I thought I knew about acting and working with actors. Thank you for life-changing instruction.
– Diane-Lisa Johnson
Writing alone feels like a slug fest. Work sessions with the group are different. I feel supported, somebody has my back. I’m good for the long haul and go deep. I have closer relationships with people I met in the IFS Studio, than with colleagues I saw daily at work for years.
I used to wait for divine inspiration. Now writing is like brushing my teeth. It’s a habit.
– Marcella Hill
This course has gotten me back to filmmaking. I used to shoot every weekend and I stopped as I got older. As a parent I have other priorities, but this course has brought me back!
– Richard Lalonde
As a recovering film school alum, I learned hands-on information on how to create my film right now …I wish I’d taken this class earlier, I would have avoided all of the mistakes and the wasted time and money.
– Mercedes Brazier
I spent 20+ years in Hollywood, working for Disney, 20th Century Fox, NBC and most other studios and networks, but hadn’t created any of my own projects. Since taking Ela’s online course, I shot my first passion project which I wrote and directed. Thanks to this course, I raised the money rather than spend my own.
– TW Miller
My sister and I took Ela’s Producing Workshop and our lives have been changed forever. We have completed three of our own short films in less than 10 months, and produced numerous others. In addition, we have given back by starting a film networking group in our area. Worth every penny – and more.
– Sharee Washington
Ela takes the acting out of acting. She strips away everything you don’t need and what is left will be nothing short of beautiful. The simplicity of Ela’s approach has been both revolutionary and liberating for a mostly theater-trained actor like myself. She will teach you to find yourself, not play the character. This not only translates to a more truthful performance, but a performance that is much more interesting and exciting to watch. Thank you, Ela!
Did I mention I already booked two roles within days of completing your course?!
– Karen Berzanski
Ela’s knowledge, experience and literacy of Directing the Camera is so simple and clearly articulated. I was able to take what felt like a very complicated vision and understand how to compose my shots in a way that was simple and elegant, and even elevated the complexity of what I wanted to create.
I also sought out Ela’s course because her writing workshops had done for my screenplays what I was looking for in my directing: to use craft in a way that freed my intuition, artistry and voice, rather than constrained it.
– Deborah Kampmeier
There is the camaraderie and support that a lone writer never receives. I began to believe it wasn’t just a dream.
– Cheryl Murphy
I am bowled over by the support, encouragement, positivity, and love of this community that you have created.
– Amelia Prince
The script I developed with Ela’s training landed me a literary agent at CAA and an Oscar-winning producer. This year I was brought in by Disney to work on a feature and feel equipped because of the tools she’s given me. To say the least, I recommend Ela to everyone I meet. I feel like I’m Sampson and she’s my hair.
– Shane Andries
Your course has changed me. I now write daily, and have someone local who I meet and write with regularly. People notice that something about me has changed and ask, but the change is internal. I’m more in tune with myself and with my own mind, and I’m more creative than I’ve been in a long time. With everything that’s going on in the world, it’s easy to think that this doesn’t matter, but it actually matters even more now.
– Ann Guido
Since enrolling, my writing has improved ten times fold, not just in how I write, but in how I look at the writing process. Ela provides you with challenging, yet simple and easy to follow exercises …along with techniques that help you get into the mind of your character and their story. I’ve taken many screenwriting courses in the past, but …by following Ela’s methods, I’ve elevated my writing to a whole new level. Enrolling in her course has proven to be the best decision I’ve ever made for myself as a screenwriter.
– Patrice Escoto
I have a Master’s from USC and a BA from NYU. I’ve read ALL the screenwriting books. I’ve worked in feature development in Hollywood. Bottom line: ELA KNOWS HER S#IT. She’s truly a master of the craft …and she makes the method super accessible to anyone, newbies and veteran writers alike. But the best part? She really gets how writers operate and has a process that will have you saying goodbye to writer’s block and hello to your next screenplay. Do not miss this!
– Jamie Jensen
As an actor, studying writing with Ela made me realize that I don’t have to wait for anyone to give me the roles that I deserve. I’m now confident enough to be able to say that I’m a writer.
– Rocío Mendez
In over twenty years of working in the industry as a development executive on both studio lots and independent films, I’ve never met someone as sharp in story development as Ela.
– Wendy Sax
When Ela offered her course online, I jumped at the opportunity… Within two months I went from never writing to writing consistently every day. If you are stuck in any way, like I was for years, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND [it]. It just may change your life. It has mine.
– Jayne Maginot
As a former literary agent at Gersh, I would recommend your course to any writer who is starting out, switching mediums, or an experienced writer looking to add weapons to their arsenal and write more memorable scripts.
– Sonya Pabley
I’m an actor, and on one particular film set, I thought that the script stood out as exceptionally strong. When I complimented the writer she said that her script was great because she studied writing with Ela Thier.
I’ve since then studied with Ela myself and was recently awarded a screenwriting Fellowship from the New York Foundation for the Arts, based on my first feature script.
To further my acting, I also studied directing with her: Time and again I would think a scene is great already, and then Ela would elevate it to a level I didn’t know was possible. After taking her class, I got booked for the next thing I was seen for.
– Nabil Viñas
I am a parent of five children; haven’t been able to write outside of the work sessions at the studio. I’m always amazed at the progress I make when working with other people.
Ela’s workshop not only changed me, but I can even see her influence on filmmakers who haven’t taken her class but are learning from her students! Ela doesn’t just care about art – she cares about artists, and has the tools and know-how to empower artists at all levels.
– Cameron Kelly
3 sessions with Ela Thier taught me more than an entire semester of an expensive film school.
– Payal Sethi
One of the best things I’ve ever done to advance my creativity and craft.
– Beverly Brooks
Ela’s techniques turn her students into writing athletes. It’s the difference between despair and glee at the keyboard.
– Joseph Spaid
When I read the testimonials on Ela’s website, I said to myself: “No one is that good.” And I was right. Ela is infinitely better than good.
– Steve Klausner
Simply the best writing teacher I’ve ever met!
– Inna Braude
Ela is like the fairy godmother of screenwriting.
– Sattie Persaud
For any writer with any amount of experience. Ela will provide you with tools to dig you out of any pit, as you employ structure without losing the soul of a script.
– Melissa Berg
The workshop was immeasurably helpful even in my defining and shaping a documentary …I shuffled the cards I had in a different way. And now the funders are happy!
– Stephanie Daniels
A huge eye-opener. I’m now obsessed with my script and looking forward to working on future scripts – instead of agonizing over the process. Thank you.
– Matthew Jarrett
Ela’s words are like manna to a writer’s soul. She enunciates feelings I’ve had about writing forever. Absolutely top-notch.
– Ian Kelly
Ela is outstanding, a rare find, a unicorn. I learned more about acting in this course than in any acting class that I’ve ever taken.
One hour had passed and I thought to myself: “Wow. I learned so much, I already got my money’s worth.” I have pages and pages of notes and I’m now super excited to apply these concepts to my next film!
– Mathilde Dratwa
For over 20 years, I’ve worked on roughly 50 feature films (Silence of the Lambs, Thirteen Days, Wonder Boys, Mona Lisa Smile). Since taking Ela’s producing course, I finally shot the first feature film that I wrote and directed.
I’ve worked on many films, but learned things in this workshop that will change my approach to filmmaking. Thank you!
– James Schneider
I’ve gotten more done in making my dreams come true since I took your workshop, than in the last 10 years combined.
– Jack Diamond
I learned more about producing than I could imagine, and this is coming from someone who has produced 10-million-dollar films with Academy Award Winners.
– Johnny Sanchez
This course could save a lot of people a lot of heartaches. I’ve seen train wrecks before in other productions, and this course validated my instincts, and gave me the confidence to know that my next film would not be that train wreck. I found a mentor who showed me the ropes, I love the film that I created, and I look forward to my next project, now that I know even more.
– Carol Wright
There are dozens of film producers and directors online that offer classes and consultations. But few as passionate about your work as Ela. She is a mentor, a guide, and a future fan of the people she coaches. For years I scoured the internet, asked friends in the industry and bought books. I became disheartened and almost quit. I feel like I finally found real help.
– Tyrone Ross
I know that ten years from now I’ll look back and see this workshop as the turning point.
– Geoff Culbertson
If I had spent 5 times more, the money would still be worth all the knowledge and resources that I received.
– Stefan Apostolov
Even with so much information covered, it never felt overwhelming.
– Tony Macy-Perez
Ela leaves the actor with a feeling of security and the all-important knowledge that its perfectly fine to be yourself!
– Mark Byrne
I took Ela’s Producing Workshop in November. By January I shot my first short.
And when it comes to directing: It’s amazing how simple these tools are. Every scene went from zero to sixty with just one or two small adjustments. I would watch people who looked like actors turn into real human beings having real experiences, and I’d forget that I was watching a scene. I got chills. Mind=blown.
– Memo
Not only do you teach but you empower, a much rarer thing.
– Denis Meadows
Worth ten times the money I paid.
– Gloria Emeagwali
The material was directly relevant to animation; super clear, and helpful. I was gaining a vocabulary and explanation for concepts I’d been more or less using by instinct, but now able to employ more consciously and creatively. Other concepts were completely new, yet I was able to start employing them later that day. The course was immediately helpful and fun. I’m going to watch it again before I get started on my next project.
– Rich Chapple
If you had not done this, I would still be inventing excuses not to move forward. You also gave me a platform that enabled me to connect with old friends, some of whom I had not spoken to in some time, and realize that they believe in me and are willing to take concrete action to support me. My heart is full from all of the wonderful conversations I’ve been having. If you hadn’t led me down this path, I might still be ignorant of just how blessed I am. I have you to thank for helping me realize this.
– Mark Dispenza
Working on a pitch deck, this course takes the guesswork out of it so I can focus on the creative work.
– Amber Myers
Everything is spelled out in an organized manner so that I’ll be able to easily go back and reference any of the information at any point.
– Zaniba Britt
I love the way you’ve laid everything out into clear manageable chunks and action steps, and that you begin at the beginning, with the soft skills. I haven’t come across this in the books I’ve read. I’m really happy I bought this course. It’s exactly what I need.
– Dylan Gary
I thank you for getting me back into the world of filmmaking. I thought of giving it up after working on films for the past fifteen years, never thinking it’s going to go anywhere. After taking your workshop I feel confident again. Thank you Ela!
– Matt Parton
This course is outstanding! I learned more about directing the camera …than I did in two years of film school.
– Steve Lainer
I’ve truly never seen anything like it… and I’ve sat through thousands of hours of classes.
– Frank Lewallen
There is not enough I can say about it. I feel as if a huge burden has been lifted in regards to planning and blocking my shots… I threw all my previous sketches in the trash and blocked new scenes, in all of 20 minutes, that were more economical and visually interesting than what I had before.
– Keith Chernin
Directing The Camera had a huge impact on my creative practice. I used the techniques to produce a trailer that won a prize from Samsung and was demoed at Sundance earlier this year. I’d like to take all of your other classes.
– Eulani Labay
A very organized overview of what it takes to produce a film, delivered in an accessible way …It demystified a lot of the complexities …that I encountered in other forums and books.
– Kathy Bayer
I have studied with the “top” teachers in LA, and you, my darling, have no idea how powerful your inner compass is to get the actor to where they need to go and you do it blind.
– Mabel Pantaleon
I’ve taken, assisted, and taught many film workshops, but participating in Ela’s workshop was a completely different experience. I was surprised at how much knowledge she was able to impart in just two days. But the very best part was watching Ela in her element, taking the actors to a place no one was expecting.
– Kelly Mena
Ela has one of the most unique approaches to acting I have ever seen. I learned more in five minutes with her than I have in five years of training. Ela taught me how to stop “acting,” which in turn made me into a much better actor. She has also shown me how to work with directors, an area that most acting classes don’t touch on. Ela’s workshop was one of the best things I’ve ever done… I noticed a difference in the way I perform and, more importantly, audition.
– Katie Haller
It was great to see the process that a director takes to get actors where they want them to be. Ela, you have a wonderful gift of drawing things out of people that they never thought existed.
– Tangara Jones
Over the past 25 years I have photographed numerous feature films at a variety of budgets, and discovered that breaking scenes into a coherent collection of shots is perhaps the least discussed or understood aspects of filmmaking. I would strongly suggest any student or pro take Ela’s course. I learned a lot from my experience with her.
– David V Daniel
I dove in head first, attended two work sessions every day, and absolutely loved it. I learned, I met people, I gained resources!
– Mark Lund
Simply thank you: for teaching the way that you do and for allowing the opportunity to view and learn not just as actors, but as directors. For this and more, I simply thank you.
– Aba Woodruff
If you’re serious about making a film, I highly recommend Ela’s class. Having worked in Hollywood I can say she’ll save you time and money.
– Thérèse Cator
As a director, my “low-budget” mind, stuck in locked shots, is finally freed.
– Julia Aldana
I can hardly believe how much I learned …I was a little worried about my lack of technical camera experience but it wasn’t a problem. Ela teaches the material in a way that’s easy to understand but still valuable to the advanced students …one of those rare courses where you walk away and can actually use what you’ve been taught immediately! I’m still riding the wave of inspiration. Thank you Ela!!!
– Carly Movizio
Ela’s approach is gold for new directors. She demystifies directing by teaching practical strategies for communicating with actors and creating naturalistic performances that don’t look like acting. There is nothing so magical as watching a scene turn into something awesome under her guidance. Her directing class has made me both a better director and a better writer.
– Laura Durkay
I walked away with simple but powerful directing techniques that I can’t wait to utilize, and I gained the confidence to know that there’s nothing stopping me from directing right now. Thanks, Ela!
– Huriyyah Muhammad
I had no idea where to begin mapping out shots and camera moves for my film. After this workshop I feel not only ready to do so but I’m excited by the prospect of creating artistic camera work that is efficient and effective. Every strategy learned is useful and can be put to use immediately!
– Leslie Tô
A fun and totally unpretentious learning experience that will point you towards making films the right way.
– Jamie Canobbio
What an experience. Made me throw out a lot of what I thought I knew.
– Nikolai Metin
Invaluable camera techniques. I not only learned about the technical aspect of directing the camera, but I was able to connect with how to convey different emotions through camera work.
– Marishka Phillips
An inspiring experience… My only regret is that I waited so long!
– John Wiggins
Ela’s workshop filled in the missing pieces that I needed to feel like I could make a film on my own. I feel confIdent with what I learned! Thank you!
– Kat Croft
This workshop will enhance my film’s production value and strengthen my directing core.
– Kelly Sebastian
A vital resource for future directors.
– Billie Anthony Sinclair
I came away with new ideas as to how to shoot my videos with more elegant camera work.
– John Waters
I had been moving the camera just for the sake of movement, but now I can do it to serve a purpose.
– Michael Akers
There’s not enough I can say about what I’ve learned. Can’t wait to go over it again and again.
– George Wilson
I’m fairly new to directing & production so I didn’t quite know what to expect. However, the wealth of knowledge I absorbed has already proven invaluable.
– Rebecca Francois
If you want confidence that you can create simple and elegant shots, take this workshop. Now. I learned a storytelling vocabulary of shots that will carry me a long way.
– Neal Hemphil
Ela’s directing course was such a great gift that I’ve given to myself. I learned so much about directing and my confidence in this practice has boosted tremendously. Ela makes learning enjoyable.
– Evelyn M. Green
Ela’s simple tools to direct actors stretched my imagination and taught me how to successfully build drama into scenes. I laughed, brainstormed, and loved-every minute. Thank you Ela!
– Pamela Timpson
My short would be absolutely unwatchable and very probably uncuttable without your course. You are really great at explaining things and sharing your knowledge. I now have a powerful toolbox for troubleshooting scenes, especially when the lights are up and there’s no time left!
Without Ela and her workshops, I would not be making movies.
– Jenna Payne
You are an extremely patient, generous teacher who gets to the core of the actor struggle: you are enough! Don’t try to be someone else; be you, and someone else will come through the script. Not only did you explain it perfectly, you offered really helpful tools that even a one-time, drop-in student could take home with her and put to practice. I had a mental breakthrough listening to you and watching you coach other students, and I’m actually excited to audition again.
– Nora Fullmoon
I’m amazed at how much I learned in two days. I was able to put some of the tools into use that week on a shoot – it was great!
– Gizem Algan
A first-hand experience into the director’s mind. Ela’s directions and adjustments brought the scenes to entirely new levels.
– Bryan Fitzgerald
As an actor, I sincerely wish that it were possible for you to teach every director. You have a true gift for directing and teaching, which are enhanced that much more by your caring and compassion. I am so grateful to have been able to benefit from it.
– Jenn Hamblin
Ela is an expert at helping people get into that zone! This city is full of acting teachers, but Ela stands out.
– Lande Olds
You were born to live a big life
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