Film Schools
The skills taught at some film schools are a classic combination of management skills and practical knowledge. The business and management side of the program is important for understanding how films are financed. You may learn how best to allocate budget including setting enough aside for contingencies such as accidents, adverse weather conditions, or illness. Some costs will be fixed, others will be variable, and of course all of these need to be factored into a plan. Sometimes, you might have to make budgetary cuts in one area in order to fund a preferred, more expensive item in another such as a particular special effect. As well as the business skills, you may also learn about producing and directing stage, television, film, radio and video productions. These films may be for entertainment, information, education, or advertising purposes.
Entry-level careers in the entertainment industry are often assistant or junior positions until you have ‘proved your worth’. You may be given smaller projects initially until you have gained experience. Large marketing and multimedia companies often have in-house film studios or video production suites. These companies are often commissioned to produce promotional or educational films. These may be used by sales representatives in sales calls, for private audiences, or loaned out/downloaded by individuals. As you gain more experience, your responsibilities will generally increase. Top film directors and producers may be responsible for the whole of the creative process such as interpretation of the script, casting, choreography, special effects, budget control, and sound and film location.
