Advice Please - Film Career/Schools, Beginner, etc.?

Question

Well I'm 19 and my dream is to pursue a career in the film industry, mainly in the Directing/Cinematography area. Movies are a passion of mine, but I haven't had any hands on experience (my HS didn't offer any classes close to film production) or luck finding any internships in my area. I'm very creative and artistic (without trying to sound boastful) and very determined to follow this dream. I've written dozens of full and short stories and am very excited to get out there and start, only thing is, I don't know where exactly to start.

Does anyone know of any film schools out there? Doesn't have to be in the US, I'm actually looking at some in Brazil, and I know there are some good ones in NZ., I'm open to anything. And what courses should I consider? Any advice with anything to do with starting a career in film would be highly appreciated. You can Email

Thanks in Advance!!

Answer 1

You can go about it two ways - You can go to film school for training or learn from experience by working on film productions.

There are directors who never went to film school, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't learn the basics. If you want your foot in the door, you can always go out there and shoot a short film. You will learn a lot from the initial experience and make mistakes in the process which will only hone your skills further. Getting an apprenticeship or internship can also be an eye opener.

You may also try your luck with film labs by submitting your scripts or reels (video or film stock it doesn't matter). They know potential when they see it. Try out for the Berlinale talent campus or film festivals in your area that hold workshops or script clinics. In fact the US alone has more opportunity and training for emerging filmmakers compared to other regions.