Is Film School Worth the Money?

And now, more than ever before, the tools for making movies are affordable and accessible. Cameras that perform better and don't need expensive film stock, high-end editing systems that are marketed to both professionals and average consumers, ever-developing ways to market and expose our work to others - so many things are at our fingertips!

And so, naturally, film has now become a career path many are considering. However, it is distinctly different from many other jobs. There's no "degree" required, no education that is a definite pre-requisite - as many people see it, the film world is one that you can only break into if you fit one or more of the following categories:

1) You're talented in a certain field that pertains to making films

2) You have connections with someone in the business that provides you a way in

3) You are extremely lucky / the gods of fortune smile upon you

So, given all this, a question arises: film school - is it worth my while to spend money on it or should I save my money, and try to break into the business on my own?

Well, the short answer is: it all depends. Everyone's situation is different.

There are people in the business that went to film school and some who just had connections or were able to squeeze in. Others just worked really hard and found a way in. There really are no rules - no guidelines.

About me: I am currently going to film school - I am in my third year and feel that I have had enough experience to speak on intelligently on it. I'm not going to really argue one way or the other on the whole "film school or not" debate - I'm just going to analyze what I've experienced and divulge that information to you, so you are better equipped to make a better decision.

I'll try to divide my thoughts into 'subjects' as best I can:

Exposure to new cinema: This is one thing that getting an education in film has done for me that I really appreciate. Through the past three years, I have been exposed to so many different types of films that I never would have seen otherwise (sometimes, against my will). Pushing your ideas and preconceptions about what movies are only expands the possibilities for your creativity, and makes your resulting cinematic output all the more mature.

Equipment: Here's the other big thing that worked for me. I don't have the money to buy or rent equipment for projects whenever they come up, but film school provides equipment to maximize my creative potential. Lights, cameras, tripods, and other things are provided for me, and I have a lot of freedom of when and how I use them (certain schools may have more or less to offer in this area). Downside is that you have to share with others, so there's some coordination required; but is that any different than renting it?

Connections: It is very possible that your film school will have teachers that can help usher you into the business when you graduate. My personal situation is that my education leans more towards independent cinema, which is a separate and more fragmented business than Hollywood (though independent cinema is fast becoming an important counterpart to Hollywood for many audiences). I am personally split on this, as I am interested in both businesses, in different ways. However, from meeting local, independent film makers and working on local projects of all shapes and sizes - I am getting a resume, and gaining experience. People who are already making a career in film know my name and are helping me out - the help is invaluable and bolstering my confidence to continue down this road.

Also, remember - you are surrounded by like-minded people, all pursuing a similar thing. The camaraderie is a valuable asset that will assist you and could pay off down the road.

Experience: Film school gives you the chance to build a resume, and hone in your skills to a particular field of interest. Get in, learn about movies and the process of making them, and then make your own. Generally, these will be short films that you then submit to festivals in hopes of gaining exposure to a wider audience.

Challenge your ideas: Whenever you go to a film school, chances are you'll be taught a certain way (or several ways) to approach film-making. You may agree or disagree, but the important thing is, you're thinking. Getting challenged and rising above it will bolster your confidence, and give you a clearer idea of your own feelings on making films.

Critique: Honest critique. The most valuable asset to any artist: having other people who are willing to tell you their honest opinions. In a film school, you can have a captive audience of your class and teacher to give you immediate responses to your work. Learn to take criticism and grow from it.

So these are some thoughts on film school. But, and I stress this - don't think that film school will pave a path to a career in film. You, personally, have to take responsibility. Learn as much as you can outside of class; watch movies and television more than ever to increase your cinematic vocabulary; go to film festivals, to watch, learn, and meet others.

And most importantly, never be complacent with where you are, because you can always do better.