Question by WALLEY: whats the best route to take to become a successful filmmaker?
some people say its best to just do it on ur own and submit a film to the sundance festival and get heard. others say to go to filmschool, and others say to go to a public university. what should I do? i dont know much about it but i know i have tons of movie ideas and i want to both write and direct or assistant direct my films.
Best answer:
Answer by Marigold
I have many friends who are film/animation majors at college.
I’m not sure how much their college program is helping them. However, through their program, they are able to use cameras to make movies with help from professors instead of just studying the art of film, as well as collaborate and learn more about each other’s views.
I think it would be a good idea to take classes or a major in film at a college with a large film program, if only to learn more about others who enjoy film. While you are studying film at university, you could submit movies to a film festival and pursue any other interests you may have — all while learning more about your specific goals, strengths, and weaknesses.
When I say “major in film” I mean take classes either at a film school, trade school, or a university with a strong film program that promotes creating movies rather than a lot of dense reading material and not a lot of hands-on experience.
Chances are, when you get into the film industry, your first few years may be spent as a low-level position on set, or even as a gaffer (lighting specialist) or assistant photography director. With luck and vision, you’ll be able to start getting funding and interest from others to direct and write your own films.
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!