ACTING & FILM SCHOOL

Do You Need Acting School?

One of the most frequently asked questions here at the New York Film Academy is “do I need acting school?”. For those that have little to no experience but want to become a professional actor and some day make it in the “big movies”, this is a great question. Especially, when film school will be costing you a lot of money and time.

For those that have no acting experience, you need to ask yourself some very important questions before you enroll in film school.

Firstly, how can you be sure that it is something you want to do with your life if you have no experience doing it? Ask yourself “why do I want do this with my life?”.  In this ridiculously difficult and competitive business, having the “feeling” you are destined to be a great actor or wanting to see your name in bright lights is not good enough. The fact is, there is a .0001% chance you will be a movie star. Having a love of the craft is critical and knowing that getting into a movie or on TV most likely will never happen will prepare you mentally for a long and hard road. Being realistic is key!

Secondly, you need to realize that that no school is going to make you a Hollywood actor. Generally, directors and agents do not care whether you went to school for acting or not. There are millions of people trying to get into the movies and you need to be bring something different and better for that role then they are.  What separates you from the rest will be your 1) experience, 2) talent, 3) look, 4) the right agent and 4) be super lucky to stand out in a sea of experienced and beautiful people.

The great thing about the New York Film Academy is that students graduate with 1) on set, hands-on experience working in real films, 2) the best acting techniques to improve your craft and talent and 3) a large network amongst filmmakers. Your look and luck is left up to you.

So, to answer your question directly the answer is NO. You do not “need” acting school to become an actor. However, attending a good acting school that gives you the experience, technique and network needed can jumpstart your career in the motion picture industry.

Check out our video for acting school.