Having previously worked as a visiting lecturer in screenwriting and as a film production mentor at the University of Leeds, Paul now delivers teaching, mentoring and workshops designed to bridge the gap between education and the realities of contemporary filmmaking practice.
With a background spanning award-winning screenplays, documentary filmmaking, independent feature production and higher education teaching, Paul brings a practical and industry-led approach to film education. His work focuses on real world filmmaking, low-budget independent production and socially engaged storytelling outside the traditional studio system.
Screenwriting
Workshops and mentoring covering:
- Project design
- Feature film development
- Short film storytelling
- Structure, character, dialogue and theme
- Script editing and project development
- Preparing scripts for no/micro and low budget production
Paul is a multi-award-winning screenwriter whose scripts have won over 25 international screenwriting awards and competitions.
Independent Film Production
Practical sessions exploring:
- Producing no/micro/low budget feature films
- Sweat-equity filmmaking models
- Building creative teams
- Crowdfunding and alternative financing
- Festival strategy and audience building
- Working outside traditional funding structures
- Independent distribution and promotion
Drawing directly from real-world experience producing projects including Watching and Game Changer, these sessions offer emerging filmmakers a realistic understanding of how films are actually made within the independent sector.
Documentary Filmmaking
Sessions can include:
- Documentary development
- Working with real contributors
- Directing documentary interviews
- Community-rooted filmmaking
- Documentary production on limited budgets
- Social impact storytelling
Paul’s documentary work often explores themes of class, identity and social change through stories rooted in Northern communities.
Mentoring Emerging Filmmakers
Paul also offers one-to-one and small group mentoring for emerging filmmakers, writers and producers looking to:
- Develop projects
- Prepare screenplays for production
- Pre-production before filming
His mentoring approach is supportive, practical and focused on helping filmmakers from all backgrounds find their own voice and pathway into the industry.
Available For
- Universities
- Colleges
- Film schools
- Youth filmmaking initiatives
- Guest lectures and masterclasses
About Paul Harker
Paul Harker is a Yorkshire-based filmmaker, producer and screenwriter from a working-class background whose work explores themes of class, identity and contemporary British life.
His award-winning short documentary Moon Palace won four international film awards and was broadcast on Sky Arts. His current projects include the psychological horror feature Watching and the documentary Game Changer, supported by Leeds City Council.
Paul is also the founder and organiser of LEEDSflix Short Film Festival, an initiative dedicated to championing emerging filmmakers, showcasing regional talent and creating opportunities for grassroots film culture in the North of England.
Enquiries
To discuss workshops, mentoring, guest lecturing or collaborative opportunities, please email paul@jugganort.com
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