Education Requirements A movie director is the chief person responsible for the creative aspects of film production. While creating the look of a film, movie directors may make script changes, determine movie locations, finalize costume designs, approve special effects and provide coaching to actors. Although there are no specific education requirements to become a movie director, there are several options for prospective film directors hoping to launch a career.
Formal education and training as a director is not required for a career in the field. Many movie directors begin making movies, such as short films or home movies, before going to film school. Others learn basic skills creatively without ever earning a film degree. For example, some professionals develop an interest in directing by working in film development or production, such as screenwriting, producing or acting.
To gain directing experience, students are typically required to participate in a set number of collaborative student film projects as part of their coursework. Additionally, most film schools strongly encourage internships within the film industry in order to develop technical skills, understand the ins-and-outs of film production and develop professional contacts. Building a network of contacts in particular, may be essential to career growth in the film industry. After graduation, prospective movie directors typically begin building their professional portfolio by directing commercials, music videos and television programs.
Article Source: How to Become a Movie Director
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film
Aspiring directors may pursue a bachelor's degree program in fine arts, film or a related field. These programs typically last for four years and offer directing concentrations, which help students develop skills, such as casting, rehearsal procedures, text analysis, acting techniques and camera application. Students also learn how to create and use storyboards, shooting scripts and brackets. Common courses may include film, history, storytelling, screenwriting and production.To gain directing experience, students are typically required to participate in a set number of collaborative student film projects as part of their coursework. Additionally, most film schools strongly encourage internships within the film industry in order to develop technical skills, understand the ins-and-outs of film production and develop professional contacts. Building a network of contacts in particular, may be essential to career growth in the film industry. After graduation, prospective movie directors typically begin building their professional portfolio by directing commercials, music videos and television programs.
Master of Fine Arts in Film
Master of fine arts in film degree programs are often three years in length and help filmmakers develop their own voices as directors. Directing programs often focus on management skills, helping directors to oversee people across many different areas of film production. Most master's degree programs require the development of a professional portfolio and a thesis, typically in the form of a short film. Coursework may cover areas in theme conceptualization, movie development workshops and screen directing.Continuing Education
Due to the highly competitive nature of the film industry, many prospective directors seek additional education and training. The Directors Guild of America (DGA) offers an assistant director training program in which students receive hands-on training on the set of actual films (www.dgatrainingprogram.org). Graduates may become members of the DGA and are often hired as assistant directors on film productions, which may help launch a career as a movie director.Article Source: How to Become a Movie Director
