Film School Blog - Tag Archive for "film schools"

Hear Ye! Open House Is Here Once Again!

Published on May 17, 2012

Want to see what New York Film Academy is all about? Come and join us for an Open House this weekend in New York City, Universal Studios, Australia, and India! #NYFA has been tweeting us their excitement. Who else is coming? We’ll be live-tweeting and taking photos so stay tuned for updates and a recap next week. Make sure to check in on Foursquare and leave us feedback on Yelp. Did we mention how much we love hearing from our students, alumni, and everyone else in the world? Oh, we didn’t. Well, now you know!

For more information on specific times and locations, click here.

Sal’s Guide to Being An Independent Producer

Published on May 11, 2012

Sal Irizarry is making a splash with his debut comedy feature film, Bert and Arnie’s Guide to Friendship. Sal met his producing partners, Jane Basina and Waj Arshad, while attending NYFA. After graduation, they decided to work together under Sal’s company banner, Justified Ends Entertainment. From there, they ran a nation wide script contest through indieWIRE.com, raised private equity, and produced the film in 2011.

So, where did his passion for the industry begin?

“I was looking to go to film school and I didn’t want to spend three years on theory before learning the process hands-on. After looking into several programs and seeking the advice of several of my friends who were already in the industry, I decided to attend NYFA because of its intensive, hands-on program, from day one. Just as I had hoped, in the first week of school we were working on our first short film. The Producing Program taught me real world skills and industry practices that were relevant throughout the entire process of production; from development to festival screenings and everything in between. Let’s be clear though, there are some things you can’t learn in a classroom, but the education I received at NYFA was the perfect foundation to get me through the process.”

What drives you as an artist?

“As a creative producer, I enjoy the process of finding a story worth telling as much as I enjoy the wheeling and dealing side of the business. Though my primary responsibility on set is to support the director, I have a responsibility to my investors to finish the movie on time, on budget and to get it out for the world to see. Maintaining the balance between art and commerce, managing expectations, finding creative solutions to problems that will come up both on and off set is just the beginning. After all, if your investors don’t recoup, you don’t get to keep making movies!”

What is your perspective on screening at film festivals? Advice on the process?

“You feel this sense of validation for all your hard work when you get into a fest and yet you can’t help but feel disappointed when you’re not accepted. The fact of the matter is that navigating the festival circuit takes a lot of time and energy. What I mean is, not every festival is a good fit for every movie and submitting to every upcoming fest can get really expensive really fast. I’ll research what movies played in a particular festival the prior year to get an idea if they’re truly indie friendly and support first time and up and coming filmmakers, or if it’s geared towards screening Hollywood Tentpoles.

At the end of the day, film festivals are great for exposure and buzz, but the ultimate goal for a producer is to get the movie sold. Have a web presence. Make sure your press kit and marketing materials are in order. Lastly, don’t forget about the deliverables you’ll need in order to get a distribution deal! If your plan is to DIY your film’s release, make sure you’ve built a community around your movie that you’ve cultivated and nurtured throughout the process. Keeping your fans updated as well as supporting other filmmakers in their efforts as best you can, will go a long way in this day and age.”

Final words of advice to NYFA students dreaming to succeed?

“Persistence, patience, 100% dedication, tons of hard work, long hours and a lot of luck. I cannot tell you how much I have sacrificed to realize my dream of being a producer. The commitment necessary to see a project through to the end is not for everyone. But hey, somebody’s gotta do it and I figure, why not me!”

Click here to learn more about our Producing program.

Watch New York Film Academy Professors’ “Being Elmo” Tonight on PBS

Published on April 9, 2012

Catch the Sundance Special Jury Prize winning documentary, Being Elmo, from New York Film Academy Docs’ Master Class professors, Philip Shane and Constance Marks TONIGHT at 9P.M. EST on PBS! Congrats to our wonderful filmmakers for their critically acclaimed documentary!

Check local listings for time and specific channel in your area.

New York Film Academy’s Alumni Spotlight: Jesse Bernal

Published on April 4, 2012

Acting for Film graduate Jesse Bernal is one of many military veterans who chose

to attend New York Film Academy after leaving the military. The San Antonio native followed in the footsteps of his father and other brother who both served their country. Jesse spent 7 years in the US Air Force, working as a calibration technician and electronics specialist. His service took him to New Mexico, South Korea, and South Carolina.

Though Jesse had started taking some acting classes while serving in the military, and booked some television roles (including Lifetime’s Army Wives, and the film The New Daughter with Kevin Costner), he decided to attend New York Film Academy at Universal Studios to further develop his talent.

“The GI Bill paid my full tuition and living expenses. Without having to worry about [the money], I was able to put my best foot forward,” he explained. “The military gave me structure and helped me with time management. When we were doing scenes, I would think that it’s not just working, but working with my team.”

Jesse landed a manager after participating in an actors’ showcase put on by New York Film Academy. Soon after his graduation in June 2011, he booked a role in a promo for HBO’s Real Time With Bill Maher. He also joined the staff of the New York Film Academy to stay busy between auditions and performances. “Everyone on the staff believes in me and my talent,” says Jesse. He adds, “It’s amazing to see new students as they come in. I get to see their passion. It’s uplifting.” He also thanks his family for their support and inspiration.

You can catch Jesse in a starring role in A Few Good Men at the Sky Lounge in the North Hollywood Arts District. The play was written by Aaron Sorkin, who later adapted the script for the film. The production with Rise Above Theatre Movement has just been extended and runs through April 22. In between work and evening performances, Jesse also squeezed in a modeling job for a national print advertising campaign. He is also producing a short film called The Secretary, a slapstick comedy about a couple and their infidelities. He is gearing up to direct a stage production of Reasons to be Pretty at the end of the summer.

One Graduate’s Journey to the Cannes Film Festival

Published on April 3, 2012

New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi grad Faraz Waqar’s graduation thesis film 9:11 AM was selected for its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes 2012 Short Films Corner. The Short Films Corner hands you an annual tailor-made program of industry meets, workshops and conferences that deal with strategic issues. Faraz will benefit from all the advantages of being an accredited attendee of the festival. He can access the Marché du Film exhibitors or those in the Village International. Faraz will also be able to network with all the biggest industry players, whether they are institutions, financiers and the most important international reps in the film business. Talk about opening some doors. What more can a film graduate ask for?

Tell us where your passion started?

Studying film and working in film was always my dream. Reviving the film industry in my own country through films has always been my goal. However, the pressure for financial success and lack of support from my family forced me to study Business Management instead of filmmaking. I spent 12 years working in the corporate world as a banker in the Middle East but never let my dream of becoming a filmmaker die. After achieving a fair degree of success in my business career and achieving financial independence, I was in a position to finally pursue my dream and passion.

What drives you as an artist?

The Middle East has played a very important role in the of human civilization. In recent years, however, this region has been in the media for all the wrong reasons. Cinema is the most powerful tool to make or break the image of a person, culture or country. Becoming a film director puts you in a position of immense power. You can influence the hearts and minds of people of the world. This is the best way to contribute something which will benefit your own culture. You also enjoy the immense opportunity to be creative. You’re having fun too.

How was your NYFA experience?

I joined the 1-year Filmmaking program in Abu Dhabi last February. The institution brought to my doorstep the facilities and instruction that has trained so many prominent filmmakers in the United States. I graduated from NYFA two months ago. It was perhaps the most memorable year of my life. I truly lived my dream. The best part about studying at NYFA was learning from professors who had a wealth of experiences working as directors and cinematographers on world renowned film projects both in Hollywood and in the Middle East. The student body in Abu Dhabi is extremely diverse. We have classmates from Australia, India, Africa, Iran, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Eastern Europe, Pakistan, Lebenon, Switzerland, Iraq, UAE, Nigeria and Denmark. It was superb because you got to make some wonderful friends from different cultures and benefit from their vastly different perspectives. I formed some very close friendships and enjoyed working with this diverse international group. Film school always ends up attracting the most creative and passionate people. The network I’ve established will benefit me in any project I pursue.

NYFA’s program is intensive and comprehensive. Film projects start from idea conception to script finalization, and ranges from casting, editing, production and post-production. I wrote, directed and edited 8 complete films during my one year at the school. In addition I was also involved in the production of 39 films in various capacities as part of the crew (short films, documentaries and music videos) for other directors. I got full freedom to experiment, shoot and work on different ideas and scripts for my projects.

We had access to some of the best film cameras in the world. We shot from digital to 16mm, 35mm and even on the Red Epic. It was amazing.

What is your perspective on screening at film festivals? Advice on the process?

Recognition at quality film festivals do add a lot of credibility to a new filmmaker’s profile. It gives one confidence as a professional to people. Recognition at a major festival immediately bring you into the spotlight, especially in a market where filmmaking is still in a nascent stage and the people in the industry all know each other. It helps bring your name into notice amongst all in the film making circle. Never make your film with the intention of getting into any particular festival. That is not the way I would do it. Be selective about the festivals you apply to once your film is complete. I believe that whatever comes naturally from your heart will represent you and what you are most passionate about. It will turn out to be your best work. It is also very important to present their films professionally. Films submitted should be properly branded. DVDs must be labelled, craft themed posters meticulously, and make sure to select originally composed or royalty-free music. This improves the chances of selection too. Every small detail helps.

What kind of advice would you give to the aspiring filmmaker and NYFA student dreaming to succeed?

Be yourself. Let your work be original. Let it be your best creative effort on a subject you are passionate about. It will naturally bring out the best in you. Believe in your work but never shy away from feedback and criticism from a trusted source. The audience is your consumer, and you must communicate a certain point of view. Being too abstract for the sake of being artistic may cause the message of your film to be lost. Be intelligent. Do not focus on controversial topics for the sake of controversy. Base your film on a controversial topic if you truly believe in it. Your script is everything. Make sure it’s perfect. Make sure it’s engaging and interesting.

Actors matter the most. Their performance can make or break your film. Select them wisely, prepare them well and value their time and effort. You cannot make a film alone. It’s a team effort. Your crew is contributing in a major way to give shape to your vision. Value them and treat them with respect. Build your team with the next project in mind. Don’t use and discard others. Selfishness and a bad attitude will take you nowhere in a very team-dependent industry.

Learn more about NYFA in Abu Dhabi. Click here.

New York Film Academy’s Student Spotlight: Paris Bauldwin on Cannes and Eric Roberts

Published on April 3, 2012

MFA Filmmaking student Paris Bauldwin recently finished her thesis film, Chrysalis. The film centers on Abigail Hunter, a struggling waitress with little direction in her life, aside from drugs. Her aimless drift is disrupted when a young runaway shows up, claiming to be her daughter. The girl’s search for family and affection interrupts Abigail’s free fall, and the two decide to define family on their own terms. It features veteran actor Eric Roberts.

“He’d had issues with addiction in the past and was really honest about it. I wrote a letter and sent it to his team. He and his wife made [the process] really easy. They invited me to their home. He is one of the coolest people I’ve ever met.”

On a recent visit to New York Film Academy at Universal Studios, Roberts spoke glowingly about working with Bauldwin, saying “Paris is a real director, guys. Really.” He joked, “She is also very… kind in her manipulation.”

Paris recently published her first book, Fragments of Addiction, co-written with her father. “It’s always been something I’ve been passionate about — helping people with addiction” she says. “I grew up around addiction. I knew all the characters really well. They were my sisters and brothers.”

Paris also recently completed a short film called Looking for Liana that was accepted to the Cannes Short Film Corner. She is excited to visit Europe first time, and participate in her first major festival. She credits New York Film Academy for giving her the education she needs for her film to succeed, saying, “To have support from people who have already done it was really amazing. Ultimately, I don’t think I would be able to complete this project anywhere else.”

Paris has plans to take Chrysalis on the film festival circuit, as well as fundraising for the next feature film she is producing. Of her hectic schedule, Paris says, “Sleep is secondary. I’m on the right track.”

Lauren Greenfield, Sundance, and the New York Film Academy

Published on March 28, 2012

New York Film Academy at Universal Studios in Los Angeles proudly presents Award-winning photographer/filmmaker Lauren Greenfield. Lauren will discuss the content and development of her acclaimed documentary monographs, Fast Forward, Girl Culture, and THIN, as well as their relationship with her documentary films THIN, kids + money, and Beauty Culture. Her latest film, The Queen of Versailles, was selected as the opening night film at Sundance 2012, and won the Best Director Award in the U.S. Documentary Competition.

Where:

Warner Bros. Screening Room 5

4301 W Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91505

Free tickets to the event are available on Eventbrite.

New York Film Academy’s Student Spotlight: Brandon Fuller

Published on March 27, 2012

Filmmaking student Brandon Fuller is one of the many veterans using the GI Bill benefits to finance his tuition at New York Film Academy. Originally from Midland, Texas, Brandon was stationed at Twentynine Palms in California before going to Iraq for nine months. It was while he was stationed there that Brandon and his fellow soldiers started making their own videos. “I found out about my love for film in Fallujah,” says Brandon. “Ninety-percent of the military is boredom, so we shot little films. We were able to tell our own story.”

In addition to his duties as a soldier, Brandon soon found himself in a new role as a film editor for fellow soldiers. “They would bring me their rough cuts, which we would edit and send home to family.” He later trained Marines before returning to civilian life. He began the 1-Year Filmmaking program at the Universal Studios campus in September 2011.

Brandon spoke highly of the Veterans Affairs team, saying, “Kevin and John Powers have taken care of me any time I had problems. I know that if I need them, they’ll call back within 5 minutes with an answer.”

He credits his military training with giving him the tools to succeed in school, saying, “I’m used to a high pace; I can see what you ask and have no problem doing it. Success is doing what I’ve been asked to do.” After finishing his program, Fuller plans to continue with his studies in a 1-Year Producing program.

New York Film Academy thanks Brandon and the hundreds of other veterans at our campuses, for their service and dedication!

New York Film Academy’s Veterans Affairs Department can help veterans make the transition to civilian and campus life. Let them help simplify educational benefits and assist with post-deployment transition issues. New York Film Academy is proud to support the GI Bill, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and the Yellow Ribbon Program.

For questions about programs and workshops at the New York campus, contact Brian Koplow by email or call (212) 674-4300. For questions about the Universal Studios campus, contact John Powers by email or call (818) 733-2600.

Also, make sure to join the NYFA veterans community on our new Veteran Affairs Facebook page! Get veteran news, information on special events, and connect with other veterans!

Guest Speaker: Rob Reiner

Published on March 26, 2012

Legendary director Rob Reiner visited New York Film Academy and shared an advance screening of his upcoming film, The Magic of Belle Isle, a comedy-drama starring Morgan Freeman and Virginia Madsen. He also sat with students to watch the film before spending over 2 hours answering their questions!

Rob found fame as an actor in the landmark television series All In the Family, but went on to become the acclaimed director of influential films, ranging from the pure comedy of This Is Spinal Tap and The Princess Bride to the intense drama of Stand By Me, Misery, A Few Good Men, and Ghosts of Mississippi; from the romantic comedy of When Harry Met Sally, The American President, and Flipped to the poignant comedy-drama, The Bucket List.

Though he was asked questions about many of his films, Rob named Stand By Me as one of his favorite film projects. When asked about working with the film’s young cast, Rob said, “You can teach them craft, but you can’t teach them talent,” and went on to speak glowingly of the film’s young stars. He continued, “It was turned down by all of the studio heads. I thought, ‘I don’t know if anyone will see it, but I like it.’”

Rob told stories about growing up with his talented father, writer/actor/director Carl Reiner, saying, “My father was on television before we owned a television! We bought a television so we could see him on television.” Rob said he learned the art of storytelling on the set of The Dick Van Dyke Show, where his father was the writer. He also said he learned from his films’ stars, praising Kathy Bates, Morgan Freeman, and Jack Nicholson (complete with a spot-on Nicholson impression!).

Rob also thanked the students for their intriguing questions about the art of filmmaking, saying, “Usually I turn up at these events and I just get asked how to get an agent!”

“Now more than ever we need to talk to each other, to listen to

Published on March 21, 2012

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