The AFI Conservatory MFA Directing program teaches filmmakers how to work with actors, analyze scripts, develop a unique narrative point of view and visual design for each project, collaborate with other departments, pitch projects and more. AFI directing students – known as Directing Fellows – direct three narrative films in their first year and a thesis film in their second year, all in collaboration with production teams from other AFI disciplines. View AFI Conservatory Learning Outcomes and Admissions Requirements.
MFA Film School Learn from Icons in the Industry
Ranked the #1 film school in America, the AFI Conservatory MFA filmmaking program brings your favorite storytellers to our Los Angeles campus to deliver inspiring guest lectures and enlightening seminars where they share their personal experiences and answer your questions about the filmmaking process.
Recent Projects by AFI Conservatory Directing Alumni
BEAU IS AFRAID – Ari Aster (AFI Class of 2010)
HALLELUJAH – Victor Gabriel (AFI Class of 2020)
LIFE UPSIDE DOWN – Cecilia Miniucchi (AFI Class of 1984)
THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RING OF POWER – Charlotte Brändström (AFI Class of 1982)
MASTER GARDENER – Paul Schrader (AFI Class of 1969).
RAYMOND & RAY – Rodrigo García (AFI Class of 1986)
TÁR – Todd Field (AFI Class of 1992)
THE WHALE – Darren Aronofsky (AFI Class of 1992)
WATCHER – Chloe Okuno (AFI Class of 2014)
WE WERE MEANT TO – Tari Wariebi (AFI Class of 2020)
“The MFA in Directing at The AFI Conservatory is one of the most impactful film programs in the country.”
“I’m so grateful for my years at AFI. I deeply believe they helped me find my voice and defining principles of story and craft that inform me to this day.”
Patty Jenkins,
AFI Directing Class of 2000
MONSTER | WONDER WOMAN