How to become an international filmmaker

How to become an International Filmmaker

Becoming an international filmmaker involves a combination of education, practical experience, networking, and a deep understanding of global cultures and markets. Here are some pathways to the career:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. High school provides a foundation in basic communication and organizational skills, and it prepares students for further learning. Basic education in subjects like English, creative writing, and visual arts can lay the groundwork for a future in filmmaking. Participation in drama clubs, film clubs, and media production classes can provide early hands-on experience.

Bachelor's Degree Film Production or a Related Field
Many aspiring filmmakers earn an undergraduate degree in film production or screenwriting. These programs provide a comprehensive education in filmmaking techniques, theory, history, and practical skills. Students may learn about storytelling, screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, sound design, production management, and other aspects of film production.

Alternative degree options include cinema studies, visual and performing arts, theatre arts, multimedia arts, literature, or another relevant field.

Master’s Degree
While generally not required, some filmmakers choose to pursue a graduate degree to further their knowledge and skills in filmmaking. A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in film production or screenwriting can provide advanced training and opportunities for specialization. Many MFA programs require the completion of a thesis project, which is often a short film or a feature-length screenplay, giving students a significant portfolio piece.

Film School or Conservatory Programs
Attending a dedicated film school or conservatory can provide intensive hands-on training and mentorship from industry professionals. These programs offer specialized courses, workshops, and access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for students to develop their skills and create portfolio-worthy projects. Some well-known film schools include the American Film Institute (AFI), New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts, and the University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts.

International film schools such as the London Film School, the National Film and Television School (NFTS), also based in the UK, La Fémis in Paris, FAMU in Prague, and the Beijing Film Academy are renowned for their contributions to global cinema and offer valuable cross-cultural perspectives. In addition, the European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs (EAVE) offers training programs and workshops for producers and other film professionals working in Europe.

Online Courses and Workshops
For those unable to pursue a degree or attend a traditional film school, there are numerous short-term online courses, workshops, and tutorials available that cover various aspects of filmmaking. Platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, Skillshare, and MasterClass offer courses taught by industry professionals, like Martin Scorsese, David Lynch, and Jodie Foster, on topics such as screenwriting, directing, lighting, cinematography, editing, sound recording, and more.

Internships and Practical Experience
Interning with production companies, studios, or film festivals offers hands-on experience, industry insights, and valuable networking opportunities. On-the-job training in various roles on film sets (e.g., as a production assistant, assistant director, or camera operator) helps build practical skills and industry knowledge.

Self-Education and Continuous Learning
Watching and analyzing a wide range of films from different countries and genres helps develop a critical eye and understanding of different storytelling techniques, cultural nuances, and market preferences. Read books on filmmaking, screenwriting, and film theory that can provide valuable insights. Titles like ‘Story’ by Robert McKee, ‘Save the Cat!’ by Blake Snyder, and ‘On Directing Film’ by David Mamet are popular choices. Stay updated on industry trends and technological advancements.

Learn languages. Being multilingual can be a significant advantage in working on international projects and communicating with diverse teams.

Develop cultural sensitivity and adaptability to work effectively with international crews and in different cultural contexts.

Create Short Films and Build a Diverse Portfolio and an Online Presence
Start by making short films. These projects can be self-funded or created through collaborations with other aspiring filmmakers. Create a reel or portfolio that showcases your best work and demonstrates your ability to handle different genres and styles. Enter your films into international film festivals to gain exposure, feedback, and recognition. Leverage social media platforms to share your work and connect with other filmmakers.

Seek International Opportunities
Look for opportunities to work on international co-productions, which can provide funding and distribution channels in multiple countries. Apply for grants and funding from international film funds, cultural institutions, and government programs that support cross-border projects.

Certifications
There are various certifications and credentials that can benefit international filmmakers by enhancing their skills, credibility, and marketability. Here are some notable options:

• Artist Residencies and Fellowships – Participating in artist residencies or fellowships focused on various genres of filmmaking can provide valuable training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Some residencies offer certificates or acknowledgments upon completion, which can serve as a credential in the field.
• Software Training and Certifications – Many filmmakers use industry-standard software for editing, visual effects, and other post-production tasks. Software companies like Adobe (Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects), Apple (Final Cut Pro), Avid (Avid Media Composer), and Blackmagic Design (DaVinci Resolve) offer training programs and certifications to validate proficiency in their software tools.
• Animation and Visual Effects – Animation techniques and visual effects are often used in films. Certifications from institutions like Animation Mentor or Gnomon School of Visual Effects can be valuable.
• Film Festival Awards – Winning awards or receiving recognition at prestigious film festivals can be a form of certification. Festival laurels and accolades can add credibility to your work and help establish your reputation as a filmmaker.

Professional Organizations
There are several professional organizations and associations that cater to international filmmakers, providing resources, networking opportunities, advocacy, and support for professionals working in the global film industry. Here are some prominent examples:

• International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) – FIAPF represents film producers' associations globally and aims to promote and protect the interests of the audiovisual industry. It plays a crucial role in facilitating international collaboration and advocating for filmmakers' rights.
• International Film and Television Alliance (IFTA) – IFTA represents independent film and television companies worldwide, advocating for policies that support independent production and distribution.
• International Animation Film Association (ASIFA) – ASIFA (Association Internationale du Film d’Animation) promotes animation worldwide, supporting animators, filmmakers, and animation festivals.
• International Documentary Association (IDA) – IDA is a non-profit that promotes nonfiction filmmakers, and is dedicated to increasing public awareness for the documentary genre. It hosts the annual IDA Documentary Awards as well as the biennial Getting Real Conference focused on documentary filmmaking.
• Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI) – WIFTI connects women working in film, television, and digital media globally, and advocates for gender equality and representation in the industry.
• European Film Academy (EFA) – EFA brings together European filmmakers to promote and celebrate European cinema. It also organizes the European Film Awards.
• Asian Film Commissions Network (AFCNet) – AFCNet supports collaboration and exchange among film commissions in Asia, facilitating international co-productions and promoting the region's film industry.
• Producers Guild of America (PGA) – While based in the United States, the PGA represents film, television, and new media producers globally.
• Directors Guild of America (DGA) – The DGA represents directors and members of the directorial team in the United States, but it also has international members and advocates for directors' rights globally.
• American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) – The ASC offers workshops and courses that provide advanced training in cinematography techniques and technologies.
• Sundance Institute – While perhaps best known for its Sundance Film Festival, the Sundance Institute also provides year-round support for filmmakers through labs, grants, fellowships, and mentorship programs.
• Raindance Film Festival – Raindance is a UK-based organization that supports filmmakers at all levels of experience through training courses, networking events, and the annual Raindance Film Festival in London. Raindance also operates in Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Budapest, Berlin, and Brussels.