2.1 Explain the working culture of the film industry

The working culture of the film industry is a busy and competitive environment with long hours spent predominantly filming and editing but also planning and preparing shoots. Although long hours are common, the film industry involves a high level of freelance work as many productions are temporary rather than continuous. However, these are often high pressure as keeping to schedule and deadlines is vital to staying within budget.

Despite long hours and high pressure work, the film industry can be highly rewarding offering satisfaction of the end product and opportunities of travel to different parts of the world. The nature of the industry also means that meeting new colleagues is regular, providing a variety of working relationships but also experience and education.

To work in the industry, certain qualities are needed. It’s essential to have good time management to meet deadlines and be on time to keep up with filming schedules, especially where contributors are involved and for staying in budget. It is also important to know your skill in order to maintain professionalism but also have good communication skills especially as the people you are working with can frequently change. The film industry also requires showing initiative and adaptability as things can change and solutions may be needed. Taking responsibility and having the ability to problem solve quickly and effectively means production is able to continue.

From masterclasses and working on my own film production, I have learnt that whilst knowing your specialism is important, communication is key for the whole duration of creating a film but also not to be afraid to ask questions or critically assess choices. Overall, this can improve the quality of the final film as more knowledge and thought has been applied.

Learning from Masterclasses

NICK SHEARMAN

• Award winning executive producer, BBC’S Commissioning Editor for Factual Format and Features.

He began working in in industry through studying Drama Theatre Arts at University and then progressing to a job in journalism. He knew of an actor and completed some free research for a documentary production. After, he completed a directors training course before creating history documentaries, factual films and becoming a commissioner at the BBC.

I have learnt that specialist knowledge can be key to setting you apart from people of a similar position and finding a mentor or executive as well as networking means that you can gain the support, guidance or experience you may need. I have also learnt that goals that are both personal and specific are important for progression.

 

 

VARUN RAMAN

• Writer and Director for Drama and Short Films

Began in his job role from a collaboration on a student radio show and writing short scripts with 4 people and 0 budget as well s a national youth film academy. during his career, he has worked with cinematographers and produced the short film transmission in addition to writing scripts.

Mentors are important to obtain by making your own films with people you know. Personal links with people are also vital as you may need to rely on them in the future. Entering the industry takes time and comprehending that it will be hard is just as important as sustaining yourself.

 

ELIAS WILLIAMS

• Content Creator and Film Maker

Studied a Film BA at UWE after switching course having previously made films. Produced a short for Random Acts, created his own online platform for online networking events.

It’s important to have a specialism and create your own films as early as possible in addition to networking and asking for feedback. Attending events such as film festivals and cables and cameras enabling meeting people that you can potentially work with. Having a basic knowledge of all elements of film also gives you more opportunity for collaboration.

 

ALICE CABANAS

• Talent Executive for BFI South West – searches for new film makers and supports them.

Obtained a degree in Drama and French before producing theatre shoes and working in arts marketing as well as festival work which included PR. She has also worked with the British Council having a focus on shorts and promoted UK films.

Creating as much as possible is important and there are opportunities that arise from this such as funding from mentors or Southwest Talent Connect. There are also hidden roles in the industry such as marketing and advertisement.