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what do I need to know I want to be a film director?
I am currently in grade 8 I want know what subjects I need to take in grade 10 . I also want to know what I should study in university I
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Dora’s Answer
Dear Simphiwe,
First of all, it is wonderful to hear you are interested in becoming a filmmaker. I'd suggest watch as many movies as you can, and either take notes after watching (no need to break the flow of the film for now, by taking notes while watching :) or even better: discuss it with friends and family. Over the weekends or in school breaks, make hyper short movies on your phones - again you may ask your friends or family to take part or help out, and if they do not have time, have your pet star in it. This might sound silly but the more you practice, the better. You can experiment with editing and coloring the short, have a small portfolio of your favorite snippets or post them on your social media account. There are also student competitions, you may submit and get to know other young filmmakers through film events. Joining a local or online film club is also a good idea! I would go non-traditional with my suggestion for university: for a first BA study anything but film. Study something you are interested in learning about, something you may want to shoot movies about, e.g. you are interested in observing people and human nature (study psychology) or you are drawn to helping others, learning about the issues of marginalized people (study sociology). But even as you are studying, or maybe temporarily doing something else for a living, always practice filmmaking and watch movies in the meantime. I hope some of this helps.
Take care & enjoy the ride!
Dora
First of all, it is wonderful to hear you are interested in becoming a filmmaker. I'd suggest watch as many movies as you can, and either take notes after watching (no need to break the flow of the film for now, by taking notes while watching :) or even better: discuss it with friends and family. Over the weekends or in school breaks, make hyper short movies on your phones - again you may ask your friends or family to take part or help out, and if they do not have time, have your pet star in it. This might sound silly but the more you practice, the better. You can experiment with editing and coloring the short, have a small portfolio of your favorite snippets or post them on your social media account. There are also student competitions, you may submit and get to know other young filmmakers through film events. Joining a local or online film club is also a good idea! I would go non-traditional with my suggestion for university: for a first BA study anything but film. Study something you are interested in learning about, something you may want to shoot movies about, e.g. you are interested in observing people and human nature (study psychology) or you are drawn to helping others, learning about the issues of marginalized people (study sociology). But even as you are studying, or maybe temporarily doing something else for a living, always practice filmmaking and watch movies in the meantime. I hope some of this helps.
Take care & enjoy the ride!
Dora
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Simphiwe
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Grade 8? That is sooo cute and you already want to know about Grade10, skipping Grade 9 :-) Well. Film Director could be an awesome career. If your school has extra activities such as, Plays, theater, or community events then get involved. A few suggestions:
They take care of the artistic things on the set. Help with instructions to the actors and direct the people that work on the play.
Good luck.
They take care of the artistic things on the set. Help with instructions to the actors and direct the people that work on the play.
Good luck.
Thank you, Joseph for the advice.
Simphiwe
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Symphiwe,
Grade 10 Subject Recommendations for Aspiring Film Directors:
Embarking on a journey to become a film director requires early groundwork. In grade 10, it's important to select subjects that nurture your filmmaking abilities and understanding. Here are some suggestions:
Visual Arts: This subject fosters creativity, enhances visual storytelling abilities, and deepens aesthetic appreciation, all vital for film directing.
Drama or Theater Arts: This offers hands-on experience in acting, stage production, and storytelling techniques, which are transferable to filmmaking.
English or Literature: As a film director, effective communication is key. These subjects can refine your writing skills, crucial for crafting engaging scripts and narratives.
Media Studies: This introduces you to both theoretical and practical aspects of film production, editing methods, cinematography, and other filmmaking essentials.
Technology or Computer Science: As filmmaking leans more on digital tools and software for editing, special effects, and post-production, these subjects can be advantageous.
University Studies for Aspiring Film Directors:
Post-high school, many budding film directors pursue higher education to further polish their skills and expand their knowledge. Although there's no specific degree for film directing, studying related disciplines can offer valuable training and networking opportunities. Here are some common paths:
Film Production or Filmmaking Programs: Many universities provide undergraduate programs covering various facets of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and producing.
Fine Arts or Visual Arts Programs: These programs often stress creativity, visual storytelling, and artistic expression, which can be beneficial for future film directors.
Media Studies or Communication Programs: These degrees offer a wider understanding of media theory and production techniques pertinent to filmmaking.
Internships and Practical Experience: Alongside formal education, real-world experience through internships with production companies, film studios, or independent filmmakers can be invaluable.
Networking and Portfolio Building: Creating a robust portfolio and networking with industry professionals can aid aspiring film directors in penetrating the competitive filmmaking field.
By blending academic studies with practical experience and networking, you can boost your chances of success in this vibrant and creative industry.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Referenced:
American Film Institute (AFI): A prominent organization focused on promoting the art of film through education and preservation of cinematic heritage.
British Film Institute (BFI): A key organization that fosters understanding and appreciation of film culture in the UK.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS): Renowned for its esteemed Academy Awards (Oscars), this organization is instrumental in acknowledging excellence in the global film industry.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Grade 10 Subject Recommendations for Aspiring Film Directors:
Embarking on a journey to become a film director requires early groundwork. In grade 10, it's important to select subjects that nurture your filmmaking abilities and understanding. Here are some suggestions:
Visual Arts: This subject fosters creativity, enhances visual storytelling abilities, and deepens aesthetic appreciation, all vital for film directing.
Drama or Theater Arts: This offers hands-on experience in acting, stage production, and storytelling techniques, which are transferable to filmmaking.
English or Literature: As a film director, effective communication is key. These subjects can refine your writing skills, crucial for crafting engaging scripts and narratives.
Media Studies: This introduces you to both theoretical and practical aspects of film production, editing methods, cinematography, and other filmmaking essentials.
Technology or Computer Science: As filmmaking leans more on digital tools and software for editing, special effects, and post-production, these subjects can be advantageous.
University Studies for Aspiring Film Directors:
Post-high school, many budding film directors pursue higher education to further polish their skills and expand their knowledge. Although there's no specific degree for film directing, studying related disciplines can offer valuable training and networking opportunities. Here are some common paths:
Film Production or Filmmaking Programs: Many universities provide undergraduate programs covering various facets of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and producing.
Fine Arts or Visual Arts Programs: These programs often stress creativity, visual storytelling, and artistic expression, which can be beneficial for future film directors.
Media Studies or Communication Programs: These degrees offer a wider understanding of media theory and production techniques pertinent to filmmaking.
Internships and Practical Experience: Alongside formal education, real-world experience through internships with production companies, film studios, or independent filmmakers can be invaluable.
Networking and Portfolio Building: Creating a robust portfolio and networking with industry professionals can aid aspiring film directors in penetrating the competitive filmmaking field.
By blending academic studies with practical experience and networking, you can boost your chances of success in this vibrant and creative industry.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Referenced:
American Film Institute (AFI): A prominent organization focused on promoting the art of film through education and preservation of cinematic heritage.
British Film Institute (BFI): A key organization that fosters understanding and appreciation of film culture in the UK.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS): Renowned for its esteemed Academy Awards (Oscars), this organization is instrumental in acknowledging excellence in the global film industry.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Updated
Dillon’s Answer
Well, in my experience great classes to help build a strong foundation for filmmaking is any type of literature/writing classes. If you are looking to be more in the producing area of filmmaking, try any leadership or team-building classes that require you to take up some responsibility for a project. Filmmaking is always going to be a collaborative experience so make sure you practice working and leading a team to create something together. And always see if your school is doing some type of production class or have access to any sort of production gear. But, overall just do what classes interest you since the film industry is a big industry with multiple positions, you should aim for classes that fit what you want to do in the industry.
Updated
John’s Answer
Having a finished film is far, far more important than it being a masterpiece.
So I think the number one thing to do is to stay safe, find creative ways to tell your story, and value your friendship with those involved above the completed film. The first several shorts may not be up to your standard, but I think the more you do it, the more you can realize the stylistic techniques that work for you and connect to an audience.
I think an unlisted Youtube could be a nice way to show the film around local audiences. Film Festivals are such a complication (many films get rejected!), that I probably would advise to partake in if a film seems to have something really good about it (writing/acting/cinematography/etc)
So I think the number one thing to do is to stay safe, find creative ways to tell your story, and value your friendship with those involved above the completed film. The first several shorts may not be up to your standard, but I think the more you do it, the more you can realize the stylistic techniques that work for you and connect to an audience.
I think an unlisted Youtube could be a nice way to show the film around local audiences. Film Festivals are such a complication (many films get rejected!), that I probably would advise to partake in if a film seems to have something really good about it (writing/acting/cinematography/etc)
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Simphiwe,
There are some bachelors programs in film at South African universities. Other options would include drama or photography. I would recommend you make some contacts in the industry to find out what kind of education is most valued and most helpful. Since you are in Joburg, start by making contact with the film program at Wits and ask a lot of questions.
There is also the South African Film Academy and SAE. The internship with the South African Film Institute might be a good idea for you. I left a couple of links with further information for you below.
As for high-school courses, anything to do with creativity and art would be good. Anything to do with languages, story-telling and writing would be good.
You find admission criteria for Wits as an example here: https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/humanities/film-and-television/anchor4
You'll need to find similar information for other universities for comparison. Note, that the required APS score is quite high and the program is competitive.
Also, you got a phone with a camera? Start making films! Start editing films. You might need a portfolio of creative work to apply to university anyway, but it's also good practice. Think about stories you would like to tell, how you would like to tell them and how your actors can best bring the story to life. You could start a film club at school or in your neighborhood. Watch your favorite film directors' work and what film "language" they use.
I hope this helps a bit! I'll watch your first big film!
KP
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/search/bachelor/film-studies/south-africa
https://allbursaries.co.za/blog/film-schools-in-south-africa/
https://www.safilmacademy.org
https://edurank.org/art-design/cinematography/za/
https://www.sae.edu.za/courses/film/
There are some bachelors programs in film at South African universities. Other options would include drama or photography. I would recommend you make some contacts in the industry to find out what kind of education is most valued and most helpful. Since you are in Joburg, start by making contact with the film program at Wits and ask a lot of questions.
There is also the South African Film Academy and SAE. The internship with the South African Film Institute might be a good idea for you. I left a couple of links with further information for you below.
As for high-school courses, anything to do with creativity and art would be good. Anything to do with languages, story-telling and writing would be good.
You find admission criteria for Wits as an example here: https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/humanities/film-and-television/anchor4
You'll need to find similar information for other universities for comparison. Note, that the required APS score is quite high and the program is competitive.
Also, you got a phone with a camera? Start making films! Start editing films. You might need a portfolio of creative work to apply to university anyway, but it's also good practice. Think about stories you would like to tell, how you would like to tell them and how your actors can best bring the story to life. You could start a film club at school or in your neighborhood. Watch your favorite film directors' work and what film "language" they use.
I hope this helps a bit! I'll watch your first big film!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Simphiwe