Expert: Phil Nemy - 3/6/2011

Question
Ok, im 17 years old and i have to begin thinking about colleges/universities or jobs and the future of my life. Im currently studying a subject called Moving Image Arts which is basically Film Making and Film Studies. Im on course to pass this subject and i would love a future career in this field. My techer told me i ahve potential to go far but my parents where kinda against the idea saying im not guaranteed a job!

So my question is, how easy and how can you find a job in the Film industry? I currently live in the UK and i was thinking the US is the capital of film making but its too expensive for me unless i got a scholarship to study there. Have you got any advice on the matter? I mean, how do i work towards getting a job because i currently have no idea of how to begin a career towards Film Directing/Producing.

Thank You, Jordan.

Answer
Jordan,

Thanks for writing. I don't want to discourage you, but to a certain respect, your parent's are correct. There is no guarantee of a job in the film industry. But then, there are no guarantees in life, period! What I can tell you is that if someone like me, with no exceptional talent but a drive to succeed and a willingness to do what it takes to have a career, can find enough work to support myself and my family for over 25 years in the film and TV industry, then you can, too!

The key is to figure out as early as you can what specifically you want to do as a career in film/TV. You're only 17 so you've got the time now to figure it out. Be as specific as you can - for example, do you want to be a director, a writer, actor, editor, etc. Once you know this, then enroll in the best college or university, whether it's in the UK or USA, that can provide you with the best quality education in that particular area so you know when you finish school you're prepared for a career.

Can you have a career in the UK? I believe you can. Not as many films are made there as in the USA, and I'm not sure what salary you'd earn in the UK, but there are many talented and skilled craftsman in the UK working in film/TV so I know it can be done.

Everyone starts off at the bottom as a production assistant, and on your own time, if you have access to good writing, good actors, and equipment, you can begin making your own short films. The more films you make, the better you'll get at it. So keep practicing your craft, be willing to do whatever it takes to make it, keep a smile on your face as people like to work with positive people, and a career will appear for you in no time!

Good luck!

Phil