Is Film School Really Necessary?
How Did Top Tier Directors Do It? + Resources
Is film school really necessary? Let’s preface this question with a statement. It would depend on the kind of learner you are. If you prefer being mentored and like things laid out for you, the answer is yes. If you are a self-starter with some knowledge and are ready to jump in with both feet to get hands-on, you may decide on another route.
To the following directors; Quentin Tarantino, Chris Nolan, James Cameron, Steven Spielberg, Akira Kurosawa, Stanley Kubrick, Wes Anderson, Roberto Rodriguez, and the Wachowskis, the answer would be no. So how did these people do it? They got behind a camera and worked hard at it until they got better, learning from their mistakes along the way. Also, being able to dissect and analyze an existing piece of work with a supercritical eye is another key to success.
“Trying to make a film yourself with no money is the best film school you can do.” Quentin Tarantino
“You’re never going to learn something as profoundly as when it’s purely out of curiosity.” Chris Nolan
