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What was the process to get to where you guys are today?
I'm a 11th grader, and I'm also interested in the film field because I think it's fun to make stories through a movie or shows.
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6 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Alyssa,
So, you’re in 11th grade, and you love telling stories through movies and shows? 🤔 That’s a solid start. But let’s be real—the film industry isn’t an easy field to break into. It’s competitive, unpredictable, and doesn’t follow a straight path like, say, becoming a doctor or lawyer. But if you love it, you’ll find a way.
Now, let’s break this down—how people actually make it in film, what steps you can take, and what no one tells you about this industry often.
Step 1: Learn the Craft (Because Talent Alone Won’t Cut It)
Most people think making films is just about creativity. Nope. It’s a technical field as much as it is an artistic one. Directors, cinematographers, and editors don’t just have ideas—they know how to execute them.
Start Watching Movies Differently – Don’t just watch. Analyze. Why did the director frame that shot like that? What’s the lighting doing? How does the editing create emotion?
Make Films NOW – You don’t need Hollywood to start. Your phone, some free editing software, and YouTube tutorials are enough. The best filmmakers didn’t wait for permission.
Learn Editing, Cinematography, and Screenwriting – Writing a strong story, framing a shot, and editing with rhythm are skills you need. Free resources:
Screenwriting: Read scripts at IMSDB.
.com or ScriptSlug
Editing: DaVinci Resolve (free), CapCut, Premiere Pro (if you can access it)
Cinematography: Watch Every Frame a Painting on YouTube
Step 2: Get Experience (Without Waiting for a Job)
The film industry is all about who you know and what you’ve done.
Make Your Own Short Films – 1-minute stories, experimental shots, anything. Film festivals LOVE creative short films, and they’re your first ticket into the industry.
Collaborate – Know any friends into acting? Music? Writing? Work together. Build your network now because, in film, your connections are your career.
Join a Film Club or Start One – If your school doesn’t have one, start it. If you’re near a community college or local theater, see if they offer workshops.
Look for Small Production Jobs – PA (production assistant) jobs, student films, volunteering at local film fests—this is how people get in. Websites like Mandy .com and Backstage sometimes have entry-level gigs.
Step 3: Decide—Film School or Self-Taught?
You don’t need film school, but it helps. Here’s the breakdown:
Film School Pros:
You get structured learning & equipment
You build a network (your classmates might be your future team)
Some schools have industry connections
Film School Cons:
It’s expensive. And the industry doesn’t care about your degree—it cares about what you’ve made.
You can learn almost everything online for free or by working on actual sets.
🔥 Alternative Route?
If film school isn’t an option, don’t panic. Start making films, join indie projects, and build your portfolio. Many big-name directors never went to film school.
Step 4: Get Your Work Out There (Because No One Will Come Looking for You)
The internet is your best friend. If you’re making films, put them out there.
YouTube & TikTok: Many indie directors get noticed this way. Don’t wait for Hollywood—start telling stories NOW.
Film Festivals: Start with local and student festivals (they’re easier to get into). Then aim for Sundance, TIFF, and SXSW. Competitions: Screenwriting contests, short film challenges—this is how unknown talents get found.
🔥 Step 5: The Harsh Truths & The Reality Check
Film is HARD. Rejection is constant. Even the best directors got turned down multiple times. But the ones who make it? They never stopped creating.
It’s Not Just Art, It’s Business. Hollywood isn’t looking for “passion.” They want people who can deliver results, work under pressure, and make money.
Money Might Be an Issue. Filmmaking can be expensive. Start with small, low-budget films. Learn to work with what you have—because that’s how real filmmakers think.
No One is Coming to Save You. No one is handing out film careers. If you wait for permission, you’ll be waiting forever. The best filmmakers started by making something—anything.
Alyssa dear, Your career starts NOW, not “one day.” Make something. Improve. Keep going. That’s the real process. Good luck! 🤗
Pick up your phone and shoot a 1-minute film this week.
Join or start a film club at your school.
Start learning editing & cinematography for free.
Enter a small film competition or post your work online.
Network—reach out to local filmmakers, small production companies, or theater groups.
So, you’re in 11th grade, and you love telling stories through movies and shows? 🤔 That’s a solid start. But let’s be real—the film industry isn’t an easy field to break into. It’s competitive, unpredictable, and doesn’t follow a straight path like, say, becoming a doctor or lawyer. But if you love it, you’ll find a way.
Now, let’s break this down—how people actually make it in film, what steps you can take, and what no one tells you about this industry often.
Step 1: Learn the Craft (Because Talent Alone Won’t Cut It)
Most people think making films is just about creativity. Nope. It’s a technical field as much as it is an artistic one. Directors, cinematographers, and editors don’t just have ideas—they know how to execute them.
Start Watching Movies Differently – Don’t just watch. Analyze. Why did the director frame that shot like that? What’s the lighting doing? How does the editing create emotion?
Make Films NOW – You don’t need Hollywood to start. Your phone, some free editing software, and YouTube tutorials are enough. The best filmmakers didn’t wait for permission.
Learn Editing, Cinematography, and Screenwriting – Writing a strong story, framing a shot, and editing with rhythm are skills you need. Free resources:
Screenwriting: Read scripts at IMSDB.
.com or ScriptSlug
Editing: DaVinci Resolve (free), CapCut, Premiere Pro (if you can access it)
Cinematography: Watch Every Frame a Painting on YouTube
Step 2: Get Experience (Without Waiting for a Job)
The film industry is all about who you know and what you’ve done.
Make Your Own Short Films – 1-minute stories, experimental shots, anything. Film festivals LOVE creative short films, and they’re your first ticket into the industry.
Collaborate – Know any friends into acting? Music? Writing? Work together. Build your network now because, in film, your connections are your career.
Join a Film Club or Start One – If your school doesn’t have one, start it. If you’re near a community college or local theater, see if they offer workshops.
Look for Small Production Jobs – PA (production assistant) jobs, student films, volunteering at local film fests—this is how people get in. Websites like Mandy .com and Backstage sometimes have entry-level gigs.
Step 3: Decide—Film School or Self-Taught?
You don’t need film school, but it helps. Here’s the breakdown:
Film School Pros:
You get structured learning & equipment
You build a network (your classmates might be your future team)
Some schools have industry connections
Film School Cons:
It’s expensive. And the industry doesn’t care about your degree—it cares about what you’ve made.
You can learn almost everything online for free or by working on actual sets.
🔥 Alternative Route?
If film school isn’t an option, don’t panic. Start making films, join indie projects, and build your portfolio. Many big-name directors never went to film school.
Step 4: Get Your Work Out There (Because No One Will Come Looking for You)
The internet is your best friend. If you’re making films, put them out there.
YouTube & TikTok: Many indie directors get noticed this way. Don’t wait for Hollywood—start telling stories NOW.
Film Festivals: Start with local and student festivals (they’re easier to get into). Then aim for Sundance, TIFF, and SXSW. Competitions: Screenwriting contests, short film challenges—this is how unknown talents get found.
🔥 Step 5: The Harsh Truths & The Reality Check
Film is HARD. Rejection is constant. Even the best directors got turned down multiple times. But the ones who make it? They never stopped creating.
It’s Not Just Art, It’s Business. Hollywood isn’t looking for “passion.” They want people who can deliver results, work under pressure, and make money.
Money Might Be an Issue. Filmmaking can be expensive. Start with small, low-budget films. Learn to work with what you have—because that’s how real filmmakers think.
No One is Coming to Save You. No one is handing out film careers. If you wait for permission, you’ll be waiting forever. The best filmmakers started by making something—anything.
Alyssa dear, Your career starts NOW, not “one day.” Make something. Improve. Keep going. That’s the real process. Good luck! 🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
alyssa
Hi, I wanted to point out your comment about Hollywood not wanting passion, they want results. Every profession in the world wants results...and having extraordinary passion for your craft will ultimately lead to an entire new level of skills. If you don't have passion for your craft you'll lack tons of emotions which in film acting and writing is very important....and with passion comes the want to do it. Also Hollywood doesn't own the world of cinema. She could be in a good place with good friends with the same interests and intentions. They may even start their own TV series film under a new public domain and become the Art and Cinematic company that exceeds Hollywood....
Douglas Wilson
Douglas, you got me there! I realize my original wording might've sounded like I was saying passion doesn't matter. Of course, extraordinary passion elevates your craft—it fuels creativity and emotional depth, which are essential in film acting and writing. Thanks for pointing that out and for your extra insight. It’s a balance: results are important, but passion is what drives those results. Appreciate your perspective and glad to have your input on this always! 😎☺️
Dr H
Alyssa, I appreciate that! Perspectives are like spices—mix enough of them, and you get the perfect recipe for growth. Keep exploring, and you’ll cook up something amazing! Stay blessed! 🙌
Dr H
Thank You Dr H👊😎
Douglas Wilson
Thanks to you man! 👊 Super glad to be on this journey alongside.
Dr H
Updated
Douglas’s Answer
So,you said,"You wanted to get into the movie, entertainment and film buisness," so that's what I'm going to focus on my advice. You could start practicing now! And who knows what will happen. I wish we would've had the technology of today when I was in school. But enough on that. If you are patient enough you can make a box office hit right now and I will tell you how. First and foremost, write your story. If you're not a novel writer and more of a short stories and sagas or series person,start with picking up the pen and notebook and write a story that interests you. Then after each chapter, take your smartphone, laptop and whatever other devices you have and find a spot you want to film your movie. Yes! You can play every character,get creative with makeup,masks,wigs,outfits,glasses,disguises or whatever and don't forget not to worry. If you are passionate enough and really care about Arts and Films you will be fine. The ones that don't make it are the ones that have doubts and lack the passion and creativity. Anyway start getting ready, write your story,film that sucker and get it on the big screen. Btw, it's been done before so I know you can do t. Just keep writing, and filming with your phone. It might take a few tries or more but just keep writing and writing and filming,(anything and everything)all day everyday and I'm sure you will be in there like swimwear.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
alyssa
Yeah,
So glad I could help..at least I hope I did...✌️😉
Douglas Wilson
Updated
Brandon D.’s Answer
I think it depends on where you want to make your impact and what you want to do. I wanted to be a cinematographer since I learned what they did at age 22 (I was a little behind after some life stuff). After that, I began shooting photos and videos for free or little pay, and networking in my area. I did a ton of short films and music videos for $0 early on. Then I became connected enough to get paid. Then I started making real money after about 7 years. I still kinda do that now; Network and shoot. It takes time and patience. Once I established my skill set and built a big network, things got easier for me and now I travel the country and parts of the world shooting.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
alyssa
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hi, Alyssa. Thank you for your question. I might have told my story here before, but I'll tell it for you. At your age/grade level, I really liked movies and kind of felt the same way. I didn't have money for big college yet, so after high school, I went to Lane Community College in my area.
There, I took general courses plus intro courses to tv, film or journalism. Worked jobs, studied. Made projects, use the tools, write, shoot, edit, etc. Liked it so far, wanted to transfer to a bigger school. Which is what I did next. At the University of Oregon, I took deeper film theory classes. Black Cinema, European New Wave, American Classics, Asian Cinema etc. I saw different cultures, styles and storytelling I might never have watched before if I didn't have to study it. Very helpful.
After graduation, I looked for any tv, film, commercial or web productions in my area. A movie came to my town, I got hired as an Art Department intern. After that, a handful of local car commercials as a paid PA, then another movie, etc. At this point, I was happy working in art and prop departments on tv shows and movies. Then I wanted to become a tv writer. That's kind of a leap.
So, I moved to LA. Got a job as writers assistant on a tv show for Fox Kids. Then I wrote and sold an episode for the show and then I was a paid writer. I wrote movies for the ScyFy Channel. After that, I moved to the Bay Area where I got into sports television for a decade or so.
In short, your process is this: 1. Figure out what you'd like to do. 2. Study for it. 3. Continue to study or change it a bit. 4. Keep an eye on local productions in your area. 5. Get on any way you can to start. 6. From there, continue to watch and learn from the others doing their jobs around you. If you want to try something else, you'll have an idea of what it looks like.
That's the film school way. There's also the Quentin Tarantino way - no school, just watch movies 24/7, then write and go make them. Today's storytellers might just need an iPhone and a laptop to tell stories and share them. But some sense of proper storytelling and knowing the craft at a higher-than-normal level is kind of necessary. Good luck, Alyssa. I look forward to your stories!
Best,
Patrick Phillips
There, I took general courses plus intro courses to tv, film or journalism. Worked jobs, studied. Made projects, use the tools, write, shoot, edit, etc. Liked it so far, wanted to transfer to a bigger school. Which is what I did next. At the University of Oregon, I took deeper film theory classes. Black Cinema, European New Wave, American Classics, Asian Cinema etc. I saw different cultures, styles and storytelling I might never have watched before if I didn't have to study it. Very helpful.
After graduation, I looked for any tv, film, commercial or web productions in my area. A movie came to my town, I got hired as an Art Department intern. After that, a handful of local car commercials as a paid PA, then another movie, etc. At this point, I was happy working in art and prop departments on tv shows and movies. Then I wanted to become a tv writer. That's kind of a leap.
So, I moved to LA. Got a job as writers assistant on a tv show for Fox Kids. Then I wrote and sold an episode for the show and then I was a paid writer. I wrote movies for the ScyFy Channel. After that, I moved to the Bay Area where I got into sports television for a decade or so.
In short, your process is this: 1. Figure out what you'd like to do. 2. Study for it. 3. Continue to study or change it a bit. 4. Keep an eye on local productions in your area. 5. Get on any way you can to start. 6. From there, continue to watch and learn from the others doing their jobs around you. If you want to try something else, you'll have an idea of what it looks like.
That's the film school way. There's also the Quentin Tarantino way - no school, just watch movies 24/7, then write and go make them. Today's storytellers might just need an iPhone and a laptop to tell stories and share them. But some sense of proper storytelling and knowing the craft at a higher-than-normal level is kind of necessary. Good luck, Alyssa. I look forward to your stories!
Best,
Patrick Phillips
Your advice was so helpful!
alyssa
Updated
Ronjay’s Answer
Hello! Im writing to provide a non-traditional film path story that hopefully you'll find helpful. I work on the business operations side of the entertainment industry. I studied marketing in college but didn't necessarily have a vivid plan for what I wanted to do after college. I picked marketing because it seemed like a "safe" option for finding a job after college, but still had some creativity involved.
I was always interested in movies, video games, and film, but never took any formal steps to pursue an education in this field because I feared failure. I heard so many stories of people trying to 'make it big' and struggling for years without ever getting that big break.
I spent a few years working in tech startups that I wasn't necessarily passionate about, and always daydreamed about working in Entertainment. I didn't know it at the time, but my experience in those first jobs was helping me to build skills that most, if not all, companies need (i.e. Project Management, Marketing, Operations, Leadership).
Then I moved to LA, and was surprised by how much my experience working a traditional office job translated nicely into the entertainment industry. I've worked at Netflix, Prime Video, and partnered with studios all across the industry to help tell compelling stories and narratives. I was in charge of building out the marketing slate and curating trailers for all launching titles in those two streaming services.
One plus side of starting from the business side of entertainment, is that you get to help tell many different stories in one day, rather than spending years on one project. You could be helping with the launch of Squid Games in one meeting, and talking about Stranger Things in the next. Its really exciting and fulfilling work! Don't let the image of "Business" scare you from what I think is a fantastic and rewarding career path.
I was always interested in movies, video games, and film, but never took any formal steps to pursue an education in this field because I feared failure. I heard so many stories of people trying to 'make it big' and struggling for years without ever getting that big break.
I spent a few years working in tech startups that I wasn't necessarily passionate about, and always daydreamed about working in Entertainment. I didn't know it at the time, but my experience in those first jobs was helping me to build skills that most, if not all, companies need (i.e. Project Management, Marketing, Operations, Leadership).
Then I moved to LA, and was surprised by how much my experience working a traditional office job translated nicely into the entertainment industry. I've worked at Netflix, Prime Video, and partnered with studios all across the industry to help tell compelling stories and narratives. I was in charge of building out the marketing slate and curating trailers for all launching titles in those two streaming services.
One plus side of starting from the business side of entertainment, is that you get to help tell many different stories in one day, rather than spending years on one project. You could be helping with the launch of Squid Games in one meeting, and talking about Stranger Things in the next. Its really exciting and fulfilling work! Don't let the image of "Business" scare you from what I think is a fantastic and rewarding career path.
Thank you, Ronjay!
alyssa
Updated
Lead’s Answer
It’s completely natural to question your career choices, especially when considering a shift like pursuing a career in writing. Many people go through phases where their initial career path no longer feels fulfilling, and it’s a moment of self-reflection that can lead to discovering a more aligned passion.
For me, realising that my career wasn’t what I truly wanted came after several years of working in a field that didn’t ignite my passion. I enjoyed aspects of it, but it never fully engaged me in the way I wanted my work to. That’s when I shifted focus and decided to pursue a path that resonated more with my interests and strengths, such as writing.
If you're uncertain about choosing writing as your career, it’s important to ask yourself what excites you about it. Are you drawn to storytelling, creating worlds, or sharing information? Writing is incredibly versatile, and there are countless niches you can explore, such as creative writing course / or even technical writing, journalism, or copywriting. The key is to assess which aspect of writing you’re most passionate about and to develop your craft within that area.
It’s also useful to dip your toes into writing projects, blogs, or freelance work before fully committing. This will give you a clearer picture of whether writing truly feels like the right fit for you. A career in writing offers flexibility and creative freedom, but like any career, it requires dedication, continuous learning, and patience.
In the end, trust that making the shift to a career in writing could be the right move if it aligns with your passion and goals. Just take it step by step, and allow yourself the space to grow and discover what truly excites you.
For me, realising that my career wasn’t what I truly wanted came after several years of working in a field that didn’t ignite my passion. I enjoyed aspects of it, but it never fully engaged me in the way I wanted my work to. That’s when I shifted focus and decided to pursue a path that resonated more with my interests and strengths, such as writing.
If you're uncertain about choosing writing as your career, it’s important to ask yourself what excites you about it. Are you drawn to storytelling, creating worlds, or sharing information? Writing is incredibly versatile, and there are countless niches you can explore, such as creative writing course / or even technical writing, journalism, or copywriting. The key is to assess which aspect of writing you’re most passionate about and to develop your craft within that area.
It’s also useful to dip your toes into writing projects, blogs, or freelance work before fully committing. This will give you a clearer picture of whether writing truly feels like the right fit for you. A career in writing offers flexibility and creative freedom, but like any career, it requires dedication, continuous learning, and patience.
In the end, trust that making the shift to a career in writing could be the right move if it aligns with your passion and goals. Just take it step by step, and allow yourself the space to grow and discover what truly excites you.