The Pros and Cons: Is film school really necessary?

You may have heard that you need to go to film school in order to work in the film industry. But is that really true? The answer, my friend, is a resounding no. You don’t need to go to film school to work in the film industry. In fact, many people who work in the industry never even set foot inside a classroom dedicated to filmmaking. Some even laugh at those who have, believing you just buried yourself in student loans for absolutely no reason. However, that doesn’t mean that going to film school is a bad idea. It can be fun and it can give you valuable skills and knowledge. So if you’re thinking about going, don’t let anyone stop you. Just know that you don’t need it to succeed in the business.

Film school is undoubtedly one of those rare experiences in life that you’ll remember for years to come. It’s a great way to explore the industry from all angles, and a ton of fun while you’re at it. Whether you want to be involved in directing, cinematography, writing, or production, gaining an understanding of how the filmmaking process works can often give you a leg up when pursuing your career. Sure, you don’t need film school to become a successful filmmaker – but if having an unforgettable experience was part of your plan, then it’s definitely worth considering!

Working on student films with peers can give you the chance to make lasting connections with people who can lend advice or provide opportunities that may help you further your career. You’ll also have a good start to your portfolio — one that has been looked over by experts in their fields. If nothing else, at least you can regale new friends over instantly regretting that one-time decision of being an actor for a day (which amazingly turns out to be harder than it looks).

Not only is it expensive, but the high cost often doesn’t pay off. The truth is, it can be hard to find a job in the movie business even with a film school degree, and the odds are relatively slim that your hard-earned diploma will help secure you a job in mainstream filmmaking. If you’re serious about breaking into the industry without spending an arm and a leg, then focus on networking, getting hands-on experience through internships or assistantships, and gaining all of the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding required to execute your vision. Trust me – it might take more effort than writing out a big tuition check, but your bank account (and future career!) may thank you for it!

What you really need to get started is your own motivation and enthusiasm! It’s amazing what knowledge you can find with a few Google searches in the comfort of your own home or in the pages of a good book. With access to amateur filming equipment becoming more affordable by the day, it’s never been easier to get creative and make something that inspires you. Why spend thousands on tuition when you can teach yourself everything there is to know about filmmaking for free? Allowing yourself to be self-taught opens a wealth of possibilities – from DIY projects in your backyard, documentaries shot around the globe, short films online, or even feature-length masterpieces! When it comes down to it, it’s all about following your passion and learning as you go.

Plus, the film industry isn’t as exclusive as people think. I started making connections before I even went to film school, and honestly, I don’t know if I truly gained any helpful connections from my time there. I had some great teachers and I’m forever grateful for their knowledge, but is that something I could have learned through my own research? Probably! But, I wouldn’t have met the incredible people who have dedicated their time to teaching up-and-comers a craft they’re passionate about. It’s also cool to say I know someone who wrote a Power Rangers movie. Do I regret going to film school? Not even a little bit. For me, film school was about the experience. I made some amazing lifelong friends and have been able to watch a lot of them succeed in their own rights. I think it all boils down to preference. Are you motivated enough to teach yourself? Or is having deadlines more helpful to you?

Look, I don’t know if I would have taken home all the awards I have without film school or not, but I do know that I can thank my teachers and peers for helping me craft one of my award-winning screenplays — one which earned me several first-place wins including in Vegas.

This piece wasn’t meant to make a decision for you. Its goal was to help weigh some pros and cons and relay my experience. I hope with whatever you decide, you earn your success.

Some advice if you are interested:

• Go to film school in a city with a thriving film industry like Los Angeles, Vancouver, New York, Toronto, or Atlanta. That way, it can be easier to secure a job after graduation, or even pick up the odd job between classes. Note: working on set often requires 12-hour days.
• Check out the alumni! Does your prospective school have any notable alumni? It’s always a good sign if successful people are popping out of the institution left and right. (cough cough NYU).
• Take advantage of every opportunity. I missed out on taking two classes that I was interested in due to my mental health, and I’ve regretted it ever since. Make sure you’re in a good space before spending the money.

Some advice if you’re not interested:

• Enter your projects in festivals to gain recognition. Using FilmFreeway is a great way to do so.
• Make friends that are in the industry or others who are hoping to make it in the industry. But be genuine, don’t make friends just because they’re in the industry. That’s not cool.
• Email production offices to see if they need production assistants. This one may be a little controversial, but I landed a gig that way!