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Subjects requirements that are needed for filmmaking ?
Grade 9 student about to choose subjects for grade 10 in a school that doesn’t really accommodate students who want to venture into the art world what can I do or choose?
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Carla’s Answer
While there isn't a strict set of "required" subjects for filmmaking, certain areas of study can significantly enhance your skills and understanding of the craft. Here are some subjects that can be beneficial:
Creative Writing:
Storytelling and Narrative Structure: Develop a strong understanding of how to craft compelling narratives and structure your scripts effectively.
Character Development: Learn to create believable and engaging characters that drive your stories.
Dialogue Writing: Master the art of writing natural and impactful dialogue.
Film Studies:
Film History and Theory: Gain insights into the evolution of filmmaking, different cinematic styles, and the theories that underpin the medium.
Film Analysis: Learn to analyze films critically, understanding their techniques, themes, and impact.
Film Aesthetics: Explore the visual and auditory elements of filmmaking, such as cinematography, editing, sound design, and music.
Creative Writing:
Storytelling and Narrative Structure: Develop a strong understanding of how to craft compelling narratives and structure your scripts effectively.
Character Development: Learn to create believable and engaging characters that drive your stories.
Dialogue Writing: Master the art of writing natural and impactful dialogue.
Film Studies:
Film History and Theory: Gain insights into the evolution of filmmaking, different cinematic styles, and the theories that underpin the medium.
Film Analysis: Learn to analyze films critically, understanding their techniques, themes, and impact.
Film Aesthetics: Explore the visual and auditory elements of filmmaking, such as cinematography, editing, sound design, and music.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Sibahle
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Sibahle !
I am always happy to advise young and upcoming filmmakers so I am glad that you've asked this great question about your future career. You are correct. Secondary schools usually do not offer a path for filmmaking even in the United States. That would be for college and University study.
I think that you would build a good base by making sure that you do well in English, History, Writing, and Literature. If there is a Video or Photography course at your school, you might want to take it. But do not worry if there are absolutely no classes offered connected to film. You will obtain a good foundation with the courses I have mentioned. At this time, you would most likely want to take some free online instruction in Filmmaking, starting with an Introduction to Filmmaking. After you complete an Introduction to Filmmaking course online, then you can venture into other courses that focus on information and technique. Some of the websites that offer free filmmaking classes online are The StudioBinder Film School, Alpha Classroom, Free Online Filmmaking Courses with Industry Experts, Ramoji Academy, Movie School Free. These, I believe are based in the U.S. but you can go to the website Alison which usually has classes based in the UK and you can see if there are any based in your country. It won't much matter at this time because filmmaking is basic and no matter where you learn from, it will benefit you and teach you needed skills.
While starting out, take it slow and focus on one thing at a time. Once you feel ready and have made some films or written some scripts and have more direction for this career, you will need to know about the Filmmaking Community in your country. I have left a link below for you to refer to when you need it of the various production companies in your country. If you want to try documentary filmmaking and then want to join the Documentary Filmmakers Association, I have left a link to their website below for you. You should also explore Gauteng Film Commission South Africa, Animation South Africa, SAGE-South African Guild of Editors, The South African Screen Federation, the Department of Sport, Art and Culture Republic of South Africa, and the National Film and Video Foundation of South Africa. They all have websites online that you can find through doing a search.
Just remember that the bulk of your real filmmaking courses and experience will happen in Film School or College, so for right now, develop your writing skills as well as analytical skills and watch a lot of film of all genres and from all parts of the world. Take online introductory courses and thereafter, follow with free online specific courses. Start making videos before you reach college and this will be the best way to spend secondary school. Definitely return here with any additional questions that come about and we are happy to help you out.
Best wishes !
LIST OF FILM PRODUCTION COMPANIES IN SOUTH AFRICA https://www.f6s.com/companies/film-production/south-africa/co
DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKERS ASSOCIATION IN SOUTH AFRICA https://docfilmsa.com/
I am always happy to advise young and upcoming filmmakers so I am glad that you've asked this great question about your future career. You are correct. Secondary schools usually do not offer a path for filmmaking even in the United States. That would be for college and University study.
I think that you would build a good base by making sure that you do well in English, History, Writing, and Literature. If there is a Video or Photography course at your school, you might want to take it. But do not worry if there are absolutely no classes offered connected to film. You will obtain a good foundation with the courses I have mentioned. At this time, you would most likely want to take some free online instruction in Filmmaking, starting with an Introduction to Filmmaking. After you complete an Introduction to Filmmaking course online, then you can venture into other courses that focus on information and technique. Some of the websites that offer free filmmaking classes online are The StudioBinder Film School, Alpha Classroom, Free Online Filmmaking Courses with Industry Experts, Ramoji Academy, Movie School Free. These, I believe are based in the U.S. but you can go to the website Alison which usually has classes based in the UK and you can see if there are any based in your country. It won't much matter at this time because filmmaking is basic and no matter where you learn from, it will benefit you and teach you needed skills.
While starting out, take it slow and focus on one thing at a time. Once you feel ready and have made some films or written some scripts and have more direction for this career, you will need to know about the Filmmaking Community in your country. I have left a link below for you to refer to when you need it of the various production companies in your country. If you want to try documentary filmmaking and then want to join the Documentary Filmmakers Association, I have left a link to their website below for you. You should also explore Gauteng Film Commission South Africa, Animation South Africa, SAGE-South African Guild of Editors, The South African Screen Federation, the Department of Sport, Art and Culture Republic of South Africa, and the National Film and Video Foundation of South Africa. They all have websites online that you can find through doing a search.
Just remember that the bulk of your real filmmaking courses and experience will happen in Film School or College, so for right now, develop your writing skills as well as analytical skills and watch a lot of film of all genres and from all parts of the world. Take online introductory courses and thereafter, follow with free online specific courses. Start making videos before you reach college and this will be the best way to spend secondary school. Definitely return here with any additional questions that come about and we are happy to help you out.
Best wishes !
Michelle recommends the following next steps: