This course is designed to equip students with the skills to develop and write a comprehensive thesis that will accompany a film. This course will focus on research, critical analysis, and academic writing abilities while guiding students through developing their thesis into five four-page papers. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in thesis development and effective academic writing techniques. In addition to the thesis writing component, this course equips students with the necessary skills to pitch their research for a 10-minute documentary film. Students will learn how to present their research concisely and compellingly, highlighting the significance and relevance of their chosen topic. This integrates the practical application of research skills in documentary filmmaking, providing students with valuable experience communicating their ideas to potential stakeholders or collaborators for film production. This course is the first in a two-part sequence of JN434 and JN435.