3517 - A Look Inside the Movies (Mark Randle)
Course Description
Instructor: Mark Randle
What really makes a movie or TV show work? While actors, directors, and screenwriters often get the spotlight, countless other creative forces are at play behind the scenes. From lighting designers and camera operators to the wardrobe and props departments—not to mention background actors who bring depth and realism to each scene—every element matters.
In this class, you'll learn to view film and television through a different lens. We’ll explore continuity practices, production techniques, and the concept of the "walls" in filmmaking—including the often-broken 1st, 2nd, and 3rd walls, and the more elusive 4th wall. Can you spot when it's broken? You’ll have the opportunity to select and analyze scenes: How were they shot? What choices were made—and why?
By the end of the course, you’ll not only watch movies—you’ll study them, gaining a deeper appreciation for the intricate craft behind every frame.
BIO: Native Atlantan. Retried in 2022 10+ years with WFM & commercial printing Industry as a graphic designer. Starting in 2016 worked on my first TV production as a background actor. I’ve worked in hundreds of production as a BG actor, and a stand-in, worked on buddies “short film” called “Detention”, portraying a detention hall teacher, telling really bad dad jokes. Currently belong to 2 cowboy/western re-enactment groups performing historical events like the Gun Fight near the OK Corral and other wild west shoot outs, entertaining crowds from kids-seniors. The kids love the photo ops. Interests include music, (a loud guitar player, not great, just loud), movie and TV buff. History nerd too especially in the American Civil War on through the Western expansion. Now retired, work as a part-time actor (background & occasional video short). Involved in reenactment as well (Western & Civil War).