Producing, directing, editing,
computer graphics, lighting, wardrobe, props, stunts -- making a movie is
an incredibly complex process, which is why it takes so many people to do
it.
And with the introduction of so many new methods of delivering video
content (the Internet, MP3 players, cell phones, etc.), more content is
needed now than ever. If you broaden the definition of "movie" to include
pieces of any length, down to 30-second commercials, the demand is
enormous. We're entering an age when you can't enter a restaurant, post
office, hotel lobby or grocery store without encountering video.
So
where will all this content come from? Good question. Certainly you can
log-on to YouTube and watch hundreds of thousands of hours of video. But
setting aside that the bulk of it is simply a re-broadcast of existing
material, how much of it is really good?
Just because anyone can set up a digital camcorder in their bedroom and
film themselves singing the national anthem, doesn't mean that what they
create is worth watching. That takes skill, experience, and a
knowledge of the basic principles of filmmaking to achieve.
In the future, more people than ever will be needed in this vital,
growing industry. In addition to the existing positions of camera person,
grip, set designer, producer, director, editor, etc., will be added a host
of new jobs created by the expanding methods of filming, distribution, and
sales. For example, you may need a team of people to create different ways
of telling the story for different situations: Will some scenes need to be
altered, so that they work on the Internet, cell phones, or iPods? And
given the ease of sharing video content, we will probably have to invent
new and creative ways for films to produce revenue.
But because it's such a desirable
field to enter, the competition, as always will be fierce. Two things will
give you the edge: experience, and personal connections.
If you're interested in a career in film, learn from the people who
know what they are doing. How can you tell who those people are? It's
easy: they're the ones who are already succeeding at it. You'll find them
working at movie studios, video production houses, commercial agencies --
anybody who is making a living in the business is your best
teacher.
ZDT FILM CURRICULUM ~ FILM SUCCESS STORIES
