Filmmakers masterclass and film screening for young people

Join us at GoMA for a film screening and filmmaking workshop on Saturday 8th or 22nd November 2025, 10.30 to 4 pm.

In the morning, you'll get to see a new SCI-FI thriller, 'The Silent Messenger', followed by a Q&A with cast and crew.

In the afternoon, you'll be able to join a filmmaking workshop and learn how to make shorts and independent feature films today. You'll get an understanding of how to write exciting, dramatic script, shoot like a pro, direct actors for great performances, master the edit, and get your film seen!

You can attend only the morning or afternoon session or both. Lunch will be provided to those attending both sessions.

What will you learn in the Filmmakers Master Class?

Using dailies from the shoot, behind the scenes footage, VFX tests and temp sound/music, we'll look at the production process of specific scenes from the 'The Silent Messenger'.

• We'll look at how these scenes were developed in writing and storyboards.
• We'll show how we rehearsed, blocked with camera and actors and the shooting techniques we used to create an epic feature film with the resources we had.
• We'll look at the post-production process including the secret world of life-saving editing techniques, ADR, sound design and the use of music to shape dramatic
  moments.

• We'll look at many examples from well-known films by filmmakers like Steven Spielberg, Christopher Nolan and many others to show how the techniques we used are seen throughout Hollywood films and what we can learn from them.

We'll talk about finding your audience, getting into film festivals, film distribution and the
opportunities/challenges independent filmmakers currently face.

Then we'll break into small groups and try out the directing and filming techniques we've
covered, devising and shooting a scene to show how much it can improve your filmmaking
process.

There will be a complimentary Short Filmmakers Guide graphic novel containing many of
the techniques we will be covering in the workshop so you can revisit them later.

By the end of the workshop we want you to be ready to go out and make your own shorts and feature films.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I have to be to attend?

You have to be 18-26 years old.

Are the screening and master class free?

Yes, the screening and workshops are free to attend. You just need to sign up here.

What is your capacity on the day?

We can accommodate up to 25 people for the screening and masterclass.

Where will the screening and workshop take place?

The screening and workshop will take place at the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art Studio in
Glasgow City Centre.

When will the screening and master class take place?

The screening and masterclass will take place in November 2025. You can attend either on
the 8th November or 22nd November.

Will there be lunch?

Yes, there will be a free lunch provided from 1-2pm (after the screening).

Can I ask the filmmakers a question after the screening?

Yes, we will have a 30 minute Q&A about the film and filmmaking in general. You can also
chat more informally with us during the lunch.

Will we be working in groups at the master class?

Yes, the master class will be a fun mix of videos and discussion about how to make films.
We'll show you the filmmaking techniques we (and many other filmmakers) use and talk
about why they work.

You will then get the chance to try them out as they devise and film a short scene in small
groups. The filmmakers will be there to assist you.

What age rating is The "Silent Messenger" feature?

The film is currently age-rated by the BBFC. Angus Council has previously rated it as a 15
certificate.

Consent Information

As part of our event evaluation, we would like:

• to use your email to send you a short pre-workshop questionnaire, so we can better tailor
  the workshop to your needs.
• to invite you for an optional short interview or written reflection about what you have
  learned/enjoyed about the film and workshops (on the day of the workshop)
• to use your email to send you a short follow-up questionnaire a few months after the
  event about how you used the techniques for your own filmmaking

All of these activities are voluntary and you can opt out of them at any stage.

If you wish to remove any information that you have provided, you can let the workshop
facilitator know at the masterclass.