Shadowbox is committed to helping develop the next generation of crew members around the world.

A hybrid learning platform

Backlot Academy is a first of its kind, studio-based, studio-run workforce development platform. Through both digital and in-person curriculum, Backlot offers industry-led certifications and training programs for workforce-ready employees and a direct pathway to entry-level on-set jobs. The skills-based program is designed to prepare potential crew members with a full overview of the mechanics and workings of a large-scale film and television production.

Professional Placement

75

%

75% of all Backlot Academy graduates have been placed in professional production roles.

Industry-based, union-approved certifications alongside a set of graded modular evaluations granted to each student upon graduation.

Across 4 Continents

From Atlanta to Australia and beyond, Backlot Academy has trained and upskilled new crew members across the world.

Set for Success

Shadowbox Studios, in collaboration with over 30 veteran department heads and industry professionals, designed a customizable curriculum to fill critical gaps in traditional educational programs.

The program offers flexibility in delivery, with options for a fully online or hybrid experience. The hybrid model incorporates two on-set days with an in-person assessment led by a seasoned Assistant Director (AD). Upon hybrid course completion, participants will receive our “Day-One Ready” micro-certification.

Curriculum

Modular Training, with On-Set Learning

Built as a 25-hour modular curriculum with integrated assessments, Backlot Academy combines flexible online learning with two days of real on-set experience. Customizable beyond the core syllabus, modules can be tailored to the specific workflows, crew structures, and production realities of local markets — so students graduate prepared to contribute from day one.

A high-level introduction to how a script evolves into a full production, illustrating how creative vision and logistical execution work together to make film and TV projects possible.

An overview of how producers, UPMs, and a temporary team of specialists collaborate to manage logistics, budgets, and schedules as a production moves from planning to execution.

A breakdown of the below-the-line structure, chain of command, and departmental roles that keep a fast-moving production organized, communicative, and efficient.

A guide to essential film terminology, call sheets, crew responsibilities, and cross-department communication, teaching students how information flows on a professional set.

An introduction to the professional behavior, preparedness, safety awareness, and on-set etiquette required to function reliably and effectively as an entry-level crew member.

A foundational survey of safety protocols, hazard awareness, PPE, permits, and the culture of accountability that ensures safe working conditions in all production environments.

A practical overview of the essential production paperwork—from start forms to call sheets, maps, reports, and the “football”—that keeps a set organized and compliant.

A professional development module on crafting production-specific resumes, building a network, interviewing effectively, and maintaining the self-employed mindset crucial for gig-based careers.

An introduction to the Production Office and Accounting teams that coordinate communication, scheduling, budgets, payroll, and the administrative backbone of every project.

A look at the teams who scout, secure, and manage locations alongside the transportation and basecamp operations that enable daily production flow.

An overview of the Production Designer, Art Director, Construction, and Set Dressing teams who collaboratively build and execute the visual world of a project.

A deeper dive into Set Decoration, Props, Greens, and Prop Houses, highlighting how these specialties source, create, manage, and maintain all objects seen on screen.

A module exploring how hair stylists, makeup artists, and costumers craft character identity and maintain continuity in alignment with the story’s tone and visual design.

An introduction to the script supervisor’s continuity role, the practical in-camera work of special effects teams, and the safety-focused performance craft of professional stunt performers.

A look at how Grip and Electric teams rig, shape, and power lighting and camera setups using specialized equipment, collaboration, and industry-standard jargon.

An overview of how camera, sound, and VFX departments work together to capture images, record audio, and design visual worlds that advance the director’s vision.

A breakdown of how Directors, Assistant Directors, and Set PAs maintain creative focus and on-set order, driving the daily workflow and overall execution of a production.

Shadowbox Lighting

Shadowbox Lighting delivers best-in-class equipment, expert service, and seamless support—everything your production needs, right on lot.