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​​The Crazy Faust Apprenticeship: A 2-Week Master Class in Film Production

Transition from student to professional by joining the front lines of a working film set.

For the first time since my tenure as Director of the Film Department at SFAI, I am opening a limited number of Directed Study positions. This isn't a traditional classroom experience; it is a high-intensity, two-week apprenticeship during the pre-production and production of my upcoming film, Crazy Faust.

I’ve always believed that you learn more in two weeks on a professional set than in two years of theory. I learned my craft apprenticing for Francis Ford Coppola, Carmine Coppola, and Akira Kurosawa. Now, I am looking for my next "Special Forces" team to join me on this journey.

The Opportunity

I am accepting a maximum of three (3) dedicated film students for a one-on-one directed study. You will work directly under me as the Producer and Director, gaining hands-on experience that mirrors the private directed studies I previously led for graduate and undergraduate units.

• When: Two weeks (Scheduled during most University Spring Break windows).

• Where: On-site with the Crazy Faust production team.

• Who: Open to local and international film students.

What You Will Earn

• Professional Credit: Your name in the official end credits of Crazy Faust.

• Certification: A professional certificate of completion for the Directed Study.

• Career Growth: A personalized letter of recommendation to help secure future industry work.

• Academic Potential: My education team is currently exploring pathways for these hours to be applied as extra credit or units toward your degree.

Why This Matters

The industry rewards experience over theory. Many of my former "Special Forces" students have gone on to professional careers, citing their time on my sets as the turning point in their education. This is your chance to gain "big set" insights in an intimate, 1-1 environment.

Stay Informed

We are currently finalizing the enrollment fees and curriculum details. My simplified teaching website will launch shortly with full application instructions and costs.

Spaces are strictly limited to 3 students.

"I learned more apprenticing for Coppola and Kurosawa than I did in three years of film school. I aim to provide that same transformative experience for you."