THE LONDON FILM PROJECT
At the core of most all film productions is the script. You can find the story, conduct interviews, shoot video, and more but the script is telling the story. The London FILM Project provide you the necessary skills to tell the world’s stories through scriptwriting and narrative storytelling.
FAST FACTS
DATES: May 16 – June 19, 2027
LOCATION: London, England
ENROLLMENT CAPACITY: 15
FOCUS: Screenwriting and Documentary Storytelling
PROJECT COST: $7,895 + airfare
INCLUDES: Travel insurance; housing; welcome and farewell dinners; reporting trips and excursions to visit sites and meet with representatives in the communities. Academic Credit is optional. DOES NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE.
ACADEMIC CREDIT: Optional 6 units cost an additional $900.
DEADLINE: Rolling Admissions until capacity is reached.
JOIN US FOR AN INFO SESSION.
Meet the faculty, learn more about the program, and get your questions answered.
SESSION I —TBD
SESSION II — TBD
THE PROJECT
Students will learn how to write both narrative and non-fiction scripts. Each student will adapt a British short story into a short film screenplay. Working in teams of two, students will also learn how to produce and write a short documentary by researching London-based subject matter, conducting interviews and gathering archival materials. No technical expertise is required. Students will use audio recorders and still photography to craft a two-column, nonfiction script.
Boost your skills while exploring London’s culture and community.
THE CITY
As one of the world’s leading media hubs, London offers a unique blend of historical depth and modern innovation, making it an ideal location for studying abroad. The city is home to some of the most influential media organizations globally, including the BBC, The Guardian, The Financial Times and Reuters. The bustling atmosphere of Fleet Street, the historic heart of British journalism, provides a tangible connection to the legacy of news reporting.
London is a cultural treasure trove. The British Museum and the Tate Modern offer unparalleled access to art and history, while the West End theater district provides endless opportunities to experience world-class performances. For a more contemporary experience, students can explore Shoreditch, known for its street art, indie boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
London’s neighborhoods are as diverse as its people. From the chic cafés of Notting Hill to the bustling markets of Camden, there’s always something new to discover. The city’s parks, such as Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, offer green spaces perfect for study sessions or relaxing with friends.
For aspiring journalists, London’s fast-paced environment is a goldmine of stories. Covering events at iconic locations like Trafalgar Square or Parliament Square provides hands-on experience in reporting and a chance to engage with pressing social issues.
Whether exploring historic landmarks like the Tower of London or immersing in the city’s thriving cultural scene, students will find London an exciting and enriching place to enhance their academic and professional journeys.
SCREENWRITING AND DOCUMENTARY STORYTELLING
The London FILM Project presents a unique opportunity for students to spend five weeks immersed in the world of film and visual storytelling while living in one of the most iconic and magical cities on earth. Working in small workshop groups, students learn the art of adaptation; transforming short stories by British authors into short film screenplays. Working in teams of two, students also gain invaluable hands-on experience researching and writing short non-fiction/documentary scripts drawn from topics found in and around London. No technical film/video experience is required. The emphasis here is on learning how to find engaging subject matter and developing your producing, interviewing and visualization skills.
NOTE: Attending 4-5 planning sessions via Microsoft Teams in April/May 2027 is required.
SXSW LONDON / RAINDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
In addition to these two project-based learning experiences, students will gain crucial insight into the current state of the Film/TV industry by attending SXSW London, the first European offshoot of the renowned South by Southwest festival based in Austin, Texas. Your Screen Industry Pass will grant you access to screenings, networking events and mentor workshops. Students enrolled in ieiMedia’s London FILM project will also attend the Raindance Film Festival, the largest independent film festival in the United Kingdom.
THE PROGRAM
During this immersive five-week experience, you will create a body of work under the guidance of mentors with extensive international work experience and learn how to …
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
The program includes a few group outings to prominent industry festivals and are welcome to explore the many cultural activities in and around London;
- The S X SW London during week 2, May 31 to June 5th.
- The Raindance Film Festival which runs June 16-25.
HOUSING
ieiMedia is partnering with Fordham Univeristy for the 2027 project. Students will stay in single and double apartments. More information will be available for our students in the upcoming month.
OPTIONAL ACADEMIC CREDIT
Students on a semester system have the option to earn up to six academic credits of an upper-division elective for this course, issued by the University of Jamestown; students on a quarter system will have the option to earn up to four. Transfer credit acceptance, however, ultimately depends on your home university. Please check with your university for procedures to follow when transferring credits to your institution. The cost for academic credits is $900.
EQUIPMENT
The London FILM Project does not provide gear. Students must bring their own laptop computer, portable hard drive, mobile phone and optionally any digital audio/visual if desired. Beginners are welcome to use their mobile phone for to capture audio/visual content.
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
London’s location makes it a great base for a variety of day trips that offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Students will have two weekends free to explore London on their own or take day trips to nearby sites of interest.
Windsor: Just a short train ride from London, Windsor is home to the magnificent Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British Royal Family. Visitors can tour the castle, explore the beautiful gardens, and even watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Oxford: Known as the “City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is famous for its prestigious university and stunning architecture. Strolling through the historic colleges, visiting the Bodleian Library, and punting on the River Cherwell are popular activities.
- Cambridge: Another iconic university town, Cambridge offers picturesque scenery and historic sites. Visitors can take a punt along the River Cam, visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, and explore the stunning King’s College Chapel.
- Stonehenge and Bath: A visit to the ancient and mysterious Stonehenge is a must for history enthusiasts. Often paired with a trip to the Roman city of Bath, where you can explore the Roman Baths and the beautiful Georgian architecture, this trip provides a perfect mix of history and relaxation.
- Brighton: For a seaside escape, head to Brighton, a lively coastal city known for its vibrant arts scene, quirky shops, and famous pier. The Royal Pavilion, with its exotic architecture, is a highlight, and the beach is perfect for a relaxed day out.
- Canterbury: Famous for its stunning cathedral, Canterbury is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Walking through its medieval streets, visiting the Canterbury Tales attraction, and exploring the ancient ruins make for an enriching day trip.
- Hampton Court Palace: Located just outside London, Hampton Court Palace offers a glimpse into Tudor history. The palace, once home to Henry VIII, features beautiful gardens, a maze, and impressive interiors.
- The Cotswolds: For those looking to escape to the countryside, the Cotswolds offers picturesque villages, rolling hills, and charming stone cottages. Places like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury are perfect for a leisurely day of exploration.
- Stratford-upon-Avon: The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit for literature lovers. Visitors can explore Shakespeare’s birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and enjoy a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
- Leeds Castle: Often dubbed “the loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle is set on two islands in a lake, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful parkland. The castle’s interiors, gardens, and falconry displays make it a great day trip option.
Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, making them ideal for students looking to explore the rich history and culture of England beyond London. Many students also plan to spend time traveling in Europe before and after the workshop to make the most of their trip across “the pond.”
STUDENTS
This project is open to English-speaking college students and recent graduates from any school around the world. Students from many universities have participated in past ieiMedia programs, including the following:
American University, Arizona State University, Baylor University, California State University Fullerton, California State University Long Beach, Carleton University, Colorado State University, Cornell University, Georgia College and State University, Georgetown University, Humboldt State University, Indiana University, Iowa State University, Ithaca College, James Madison University, Louisiana State University, Montclair State University, New York University, Rider University, Ohio University, Rutgers University, Ryerson University, San Diego State University, San Francisco State University, State University of New York at New Paltz, Syracuse University, Temple University, Truman State University, UCLA, University of Arizona, University of British Columbia, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Univeristy of Miami, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Kennesaw State University, University of Illinois, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Northern Iowa, University of Southern California, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Virginia Tech, and Washington and Lee University.
We’ve also had students from Canada, Japan, the UK, Puerto Rico and Trinidad.
THE LONDON FILM PROJECT FACULTY
FACULTY DIRECTOR
Frederick Lewis is a Professor in the School of Media Arts & Studies at Ohio University and a documentary filmmaker whose work has been seen on PBS stations throughout the U.S. as well as on PBS’s WORLD channel, and screened at more than 130 cultural/educational venues, including the Library of Congress, the National Gallery of Art, the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis and the world headquarters of The Explorers Club in NYC. Over the years these projects have taken him to Russia, Greenland, Argentina, Chile (sailing to Cape Horn), Newfoundland and Alaska.
Professor Lewis is a recipient of the Presidential Teacher Award, Ohio University’s highest honor for transformative teaching, curriculum innovation and mentoring. Hundreds of Lewis’s students have gone on to work in all aspects of the entertainment and corporate production industries for organizations such as Lucasfilm, Scott Free Productions (Ridley Scott), Dreamworks Animation, Jim Henson Productions, International Creative Management (now CAA), iHeartMedia, Laika, Teton Gravity Research, NFL Films and Major League Baseball. Some have served as writers, story editors and/or producers for shows such as Family Guy, Community, NCIS, Supergirl, and the current version of Fraggle Rock.
Internationally, Lewis has directed twenty-five experiential learning programs in eight countries including Spain, Ireland, Morocco, Ecuador and Guyana, serving more than 300 students. He has been a Fulbright Specialist at the University of Pecs in Hungary, a U.S. Embassy lecturer in Germany and Malaysia, and a Teaching Fellow at Leeds Beckett University in England. He has lectured or conducted workshops at universities in France, Ukraine, Romania, Vietnam and China.
Professor Lewis holds a master’s degree in creative writing from Brown University and has also taught at Boston University and the Rhode Island School of Design.
FACULTY
Additional faculty for this project will be announced soon. Check back for updates and learn more with ieiMedia to stay informed about this program and other opportunities.
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