How to Become a Film Director at 20 Without a Bachelor's Degree

At the age of 20, many aspiring filmmakers question whether they need a film school degree to achieve their goals. The answer lies in the tenacity and self-reliance of the individual. Film school is a valuable resource for those with lesser knowledge or who need guidance during the initial stages. However, this article delves into the idea that you don’t need to attend film school to become a successful film director. Rather, the journey to filmmaking excellence can be self-taught, provided you embrace continuous learning and practical experience.

Self-Learning and Practical Experience

If you are a self-driven, tenacious learner, you can embark on your filmmaking journey without a formal education. The best mentor for aspiring filmmakers is the practical experience gained on actual sets. There are numerous producers and directors looking for production assistants (PAs) who are willing to work for credit, pizza, and even remember everyone's Starbucks orders.

Start small and work your way up. This trajectory may seem archaic, reminiscent of old Hollywood, but it is still incredibly effective. The key is to gain recognition for your work, which will help you stand out when the time comes to take on new projects. By starting small, you can build a solid foundation and learn the ropes in a hands-on manner.

Essential Knowledge for Filmmakers

While striving for a hands-on experience, you need to know a great deal about filmmaking. This includes a deep understanding of art and literature, as well as a historical knowledge of the 100-year-old film industry. You’ll need to know about stunts, gags, and the decision between live effects or using CGI in post-production. Effective communication with actors, editors, cinematographers, and other crew members is also crucial.

The Technical Aspects of Filmmaking

Filmmaking involves a lot of technical knowledge, such as understanding angles, choosing lenses, and cameras. You must know when to use a zoom vs. a dolly, and which F-stop to use with a specific focal length for the desired shot. You need to understand the role of the 180-degree rule and when to cross it, and when to feather your light with a cookie, net, and flags. Additionally, a thorough understanding of acting and blocking is essential.

Building Your Team

Collaboration is at the heart of filmmaking, and you need to build a team of individuals who trust and work well together. This includes people you would want to hire, as well as those who would be interested in working with you. Developing strong relationships with these professionals will enhance your career and the quality of your films.

The Learning Cycle

The path to becoming a successful film director is not without its challenges, but with continuous learning and improvement, you can achieve your goals. Simply start making films using the camera you carry with you every day. Make films, make mistakes, and learn from those mistakes. Continuously refine your skills and repeat the cycle. This process is common among all filmmakers, regardless of whether they attended film school or pursued a self-taught path.

In conclusion, becoming a film director at 20 without a formal education is entirely possible. Embrace self-learning, practical experience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. With dedication and determination, you can carve out a successful career in the world of filmmaking.