subject: Film School Secrets - Knowledge to Help you succeed in the Filming Industry [print this page] Film School Secrets - Knowledge to Help you succeed in the Filming Industry
There are a lot of misconceptions in the filming industry that can be extremely confusing. We always hear stories about people like George Lucas and Martin Scorsese who went to film school and became very successful Hollywood producers. However, one of the film school secrets is that most people don't find success with this approach. These two men are considered to be exceptions to the rule.
The most common way to make your mark in the filming world is by working on a set and paying your dues. This is what Steven Spielberg had to do when he first got started. Yes, he went to USC film school and earned an honorary degree, but they turned him down initially. He actually worked an internship at Universal Studios before he earned respect and was finally accepted. Here are some other film school secrets to think about:
The Contacts- One of the most important parts to becoming a successful producer is by having tons of contacts. The best places to find them are film sets and festivals. Individuals who go to film school may only find a couple of good ones that will be helpful in the future.
You don't have to go to Film School- Most people believe that schooling is the only way to be successful in the film industry. The truth is; you're better off working for somewhere like Universal Studios, because you learn a lot more and the process is quicker. The on-hand training you receive is definitely more beneficial than classroom training.
It's very similar to how electricians, plumbers, and even carpenters learn their crafts. They work with others on the job in order to learn the ropes. This is the same thing you have to do in the filmmaking industry.
Some people also believe that film school is the only way you can access the proper equipment. This might have been true for Lucas or Scorsese, but now you can purchase everything you need for a few thousand dollars.
Professors are another one of the film school secrets we have to share. Did you know if you go to film school almost all the professors have never been on a film set? So it's easy to understand why you learn more in the field as opposed to a classroom. Do you really want to spend $30,000 a year or more on classes where you are taught by an amateur?
No Degrees- The last of our film school secrets is telling you that a degree is not necessary. Investors work with producers that are good, not ones who hold a degree. You won't find any weight with them like you would in the medical or business world. So save your money, find a film set, and start working towards your producing goals. You will definitely learn more and the process will be a lot quicker.
