Jocelyn
Any advice for someone who is planning to major in film?
I have recently decided to major in film production but I continuously receive comments about the competitiveness within the film industry especially for women, at times this makes me second guess my major. Is there any advice or information I should know before I take this on? #film #television #director #producer #cinematography
5 answers
phillip rasy
phillip’s Answer
No matter what you choose, you will need to have confident in yourself. If you love doing film go ahead and do it. Just believe in yourself and the rest will work out. Be confident, truthful to yourself ,patience, flexible, and you will go far in life.
Rich Hansil
Rich’s Answer
Film and TV are very competitive, and you can find yourself working long hours under difficult conditions. That said, it can also be very rewarding and a ton of fun. If it's something you love, then you should not let the difficulties deter you. There are always plenty of entry level jobs on shows as a production assistant, so you can see if you enjoy the art and science of making movies during school, and then go work on a big set during the summers or breaks to see how you like the business. A film degree can lead to movies, TV, advertising, digital, writing, and more - so really explore the various gigs as much as you can. It may take a while to find the best fit for you.
As for being a woman, never let others stop you from achieving your goals. I've worked with and for many women in the industry, and while they did have to work hard, they've made great movies and shows and enjoyed doing it. Unless your parents are famous or powerful, everyone starts at the bottom, and the hardest workers are the ones that stand out and move up.
Kendall Sand
Kendall’s Answer
Hi Jocelyn,
The entire entertainment industry is very competitive (so are many other industries!), and women DO often have a harder time breaking in. BUT, that should make you MORE excited about the challenge and determined to succeed. We need all the female filmmakers we can get. If you're a hard worker, and passionate about what you're doing, you will find a way to do it. Probably not without some stumbles and doubts along the way - but everyone has those moments, and they ultimately make you a better, more creative person.
Here are just a few female film producers (you probably know most or all of them already) to check out if you want to feel inspired: Drew Barrymore, Nina Jacobsen, Diablo Cody, Marti Noxon, Karyn Kusama, Kathryn Bigelow, Sofia Coppola, Nora Ephron, Penny Marshall, etc...
Best of luck!
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Advice for Someone Planning to Major in Film
Choosing to major in film production is an exciting and challenging decision. The film industry is indeed competitive, and it’s important to be aware of the unique challenges that women may face in this field. However, with dedication, perseverance, and the right knowledge, it is possible to succeed. Here are some pieces of advice and information that you should consider as you embark on your journey into the world of film production:
1. Understand the Industry Before diving into a major in film production, it’s crucial to have a deep understanding of the industry. This includes familiarizing yourself with the various roles within film production such as directing, producing, cinematography, editing, and more. Research the history of cinema, study different genres and styles of filmmaking, and stay updated on current trends and technologies in the industry.
2. Network and Build Relationships Networking is essential in the film industry. Connect with professors, fellow students, industry professionals, and alumni from your film program. Attend film festivals, workshops, and industry events to meet people who share your passion for filmmaking. Building strong relationships can open doors to opportunities such as internships, mentorships, and collaborative projects.
3. Seek Mentorship Find mentors who can provide guidance and support as you navigate through your film studies and career aspirations. Look for individuals who have experience in the specific areas of film production that interest you. A mentor can offer valuable insights, advice, and constructive feedback on your work.
4. Embrace Diversity As a woman entering the film industry, it’s important to embrace diversity and advocate for inclusivity in storytelling and representation. Use your unique perspective to contribute to diverse narratives on screen. Seek out communities and organizations that support women in film and champion gender equality in the industry.
5. Develop Your Skills In addition to academic coursework, focus on honing your practical skills in filmmaking. Take advantage of hands-on opportunities offered by your program such as working on student films, participating in production workshops, or gaining experience through internships or freelance projects.
6. Stay Informed About Industry Challenges While it’s important to be aware of the challenges within the industry, it’s equally crucial to stay informed about initiatives and movements aimed at addressing issues such as gender inequality and representation in film. Engage with discussions surrounding these topics and consider how you can contribute positively to the ongoing conversations.
7. Be Resilient The path to a successful career in film production may have its share of obstacles. It’s essential to cultivate resilience and perseverance. Learn from setbacks, adapt to changes in the industry, and remain committed to your passion for storytelling through visual media.
8. Research Scholarships and Grants Explore opportunities for financial aid through scholarships and grants specifically aimed at supporting women pursuing careers in film production. Many organizations offer funding to empower women in the arts, including filmmaking.
In conclusion, while the competitiveness within the film industry can be daunting at times, pursuing a major in film production can be incredibly rewarding for those who are passionate about visual storytelling. By understanding the industry landscape, building a strong network, seeking mentorship, embracing diversity, developing skills, staying informed about industry challenges, being resilient, and exploring financial aid options, you can position yourself for success as a woman in this dynamic field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Hollywood Reporter: This source provides up-to-date news and insights into the entertainment industry including trends, challenges faced by women in film production, success stories of female filmmakers, and resources for aspiring professionals.
American Film Institute (AFI): AFI offers valuable resources for aspiring filmmakers including educational programs, career development initiatives, and information on scholarships or grants available for students pursuing studies in film production.
Women In Film: This organization advocates for gender equality within the entertainment industry and provides resources such as mentorship programs, networking events, research reports on gender disparity in filmmaking roles, and opportunities for financial support aimed at empowering women in film production.
GOD BLESS,
James.
Bob Del Valle
Bob’s Answer
If filmmaking and storytelling is your passion, don't second-guess your major. You have to go for it or you may regret not having pursued it. And never let gender create any self-doubt. Your talent will become apparent to others. Yes, breaking into the industry is extremely difficult and competitive and time-consuming, so don't be discouraged. Best of luck!