<p>Most of the schools that I am applying to do not have film majors. So I was wondering whether it would be possible to get a B.A. in Theatre Arts before moving onto a M.F.A in Film at a good film school. Is this a good plan or are there any other alternatives?</p>
<p>Since you’re thinking about pursuing an MFA in Film, I assume you’d like to be a filmmaker, and not a film critic. You should know that BA Theatre programs are largely about theory and usually follow the general liberal arts curriculum. There’s lots of theatre history and acting theory. If you’re fine with that, go for it. If you’re more of a practical person, I wouldn’t suggest you do it. Just warning you, Theatre is not exclusively acting.
However, if you want to make films in grad school, it doesn’t really matter what you studied for your undergraduate degree. Many MFA students have completely unrelated majors. It’s been said before, but when it comes to filmmaking, it’s largely about telling stories. You need to have a story to tell. Knowing HOW to tell it is not enough. That’s why perhaps you’d want to study something different.
Also, I don’t need to elaborate on how film industry is tough and having a backup plan/degree is always a good idea, do I?</p>
<p>Studying theatre will teach you how to deeply analyze and understand character, motivation, story and subtext, dramatic arcs, pacing, themes, and how different historical, international and cultural perspectives have shaped and influenced drama. You will learn how to use staging, costumes, sets, lighting, music and actors. This, in itself, is an excellent education for anyone who may want to go on to further study (MFA in Acting, MFA Theatre Design, MFA Film Production, MFA Screenwriting, MFA Creative Writing, etc) in the practice of many story-based creative fields as well as those who may feel ready to just do it–and start a career. The energy and drive and talent and chutzpah you have within + great good luck will help you get a film career started more, in truth, than any particular degree or major or even the school you attended. </p>
<p>Best of luck.</p>
<p>I was going to initially advise against it but then I thought about a recent theatre production I saw (at the cinema). It was a showing of Frankenstein by the National Theatre (England). Starring Bennedict Cumberbatch and Johnny Lee Miller. </p>
<p>It was really creative in terms of direction and use of the set. Some of the industrial revolution themes were developed when the same director created the amazing British Isles section of London Olympic Games opening ceremony. </p>
<p>The director? Danny Boyle of 28 Days/ Weeks Later, Shallow Grave, Trainspotting, Slum Dog Millionaire and 127 Hours fame. So the two crafts can very much intermingle creatively!</p>