Stages of Production

Development to Distribution

The process of producing a film from start to finish is often much more complicated than one might expect. By studying Francis Ford Coppola's epic 1979 film Apocalypse Now and the documentary Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse that chronicles the grotesque production of that film, we begin to get a better sense of the process.

To begin, complete the following lessons below:

WATCH - Stages of Production

Click the WATCH NOW button below to view a Video Lesson by Sam Avery on the five Stages of Film Production. Students are encouraged to view the Stages of Production Lecture (below) while watching this video.

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LECTURE - Stages of Production

Click the VIEW LECTURE button below to access the presentation on the five stage of film production. Students are encouraged to watch the Video Lesson (above) by Sam Avery while viewing this presentation.

VIEW LECTURE

WATCH - Apocalypse Now (1979)

A U.S. Army officer serving in Vietnam is tasked with assassinating a renegade Special Forces Colonel who sees himself as a god. Click the WATCH NOW button to view the film.

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WATCH - Hearts of Darkness (1991)

Documentary that chronicles how Francis Ford Coppola's Apocalypse Now (1979) was plagued by extraordinary script, shooting, budget, and casting problems--nearly destroying the life and career of the celebrated director. Click the WATCH NOW button to view the film.

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QUIZ - Stages of Production

After reviewing notes on the five stages of production and watching Apocalypse Now and Hearts of Darkness, click the START NOW button below to answer several questions about the films and reflect upon the deeper meaning embedded throughout.

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