Hello All,
So I have always been interested in making my own films, but I never put my thoughts into action. I have written a couple of scripts and drawn up a couple of story boards but never actually filmed anything. Part of the reason why is I’ve never really had the resources. My school offers no programs or electives in film or video and although I do have a camera I wouldn’t know how to make my film come to life seeing as I have no experience in the editing and none of my friends are interested in being filmed, so the film ideas I have seem very unrealistic, and even if all of these things were to magically appear I’m going into my senior year and I wouldn’t have as much time to make several at least decent videos. Basically I am wondering if there are any schools that have programs in Film for beginners. I really like UARTs film + video program but to apply you have to have a portfolio which I wouldn’t have because I’ve never filmed anything. The reason I like the program is because not only are you taught film but you are able to collaborate with other departments, such as their performing arts, writing, and art department so you can really make your visions come alive. So the overall question is, is there any program like that, but for someone who has never actually filmed before.
Thanks
Colorado Film School has a great film program for beginners
Temple’s Film & Media Arts program does not have a portfolio requirement. Look into Columbia College Chicago, too. It has open admissions for freshmen, and an excellent film department. I’ve heard good things about UNC-Wilmington, but I don’t know what the portfolio requirements are. Some film departments do not require an entire film for portfolio. Story-boards, sample scripts, etc. are accepted (forget about USC and Tisch, however). I’m surprised that UArts demands more than that.
FSU is tougher in terms of selectivity, but you do not need to submit a film or video. You may submit a script and storyboard. I think that’s true at some other colleges, also.
Friends are the worst people to ask, if they don’t fancy themselves as actors. Does your HS have theatre? There must be one or two students that love theatre. Ask those students. But start with a simple, filmable script. Write scripts that contain few characters/extras and create conflict which is task-based, not character-based. You’re more likely to finish your first film/video by getting one step done at a time. Don’t even think about editing until after you get the filming done, etc.