Why film school might not suck.

1. Depending on the program you can learn a wide variety of skills fast and bypass a lengthy learning process.


It is definitely an advantage to have access to expensive gear and high end equipment. Film gear is usually very expensive to rent and outside the reach of those who are not wealthy. You will also get to work on many sets quickly to get that very important on the set training.

2. Networking.


Any film maker worth their salt knows that rubbing elbows and making contacts is paramount to success. You will have immediate access to (hopefully) a wide pool of talent and have people to call on long after you graduate. The negative side of course is all your contacts are as inexperienced as you are, but at least you will never have trouble with finding a crew.

3. You learn social skills.


Being able to work with people you dislike is an important skill in any business, but double as much in film. On a crew of ten or more their is bound to be someone you think is an asshole. You will also have to work with a wide variety of personality types, learning to work together and rise up past differences.

4. You will have a diploma.


I have never once been asked if I had a diploma in film, but having one opens doors in other areas. Receiving grants and funding, applying to larger programs or university and the list goes on.

5. You will have a reel.


 If you are untalented than it won't matter how big your reel is, that being said...

Making a demo reel is time consuming and expensive. Film school can be a great asset to quickly building a portfolio to show off your skills. You will probably find work quicker and easier when you graduate.