Expert: Phil Nemy - 7/14/2006

Question
Hey Phil, I'm currently an English/Theater Arts major in LA.  After I complete my bachelor's, I want to get my MFA from UCLA.  I love the medium of film and I want to pursue a directing career.  However, I am leaning towards the Theater Direction Program rather than the Film Production program?  Why am I doing this?  Because I feel that I need to sharpen my craft in directing actors rather than studying the technical aspects of film.  I feel that any decent cinematographer can be more knowledgeable in the visual aspects of production than I will ever be.  Instead of being a director who focuses on different shots and camera movements, I want to focus solely on the actors and story element of the production.

What would you recommend?  MFA in Theater or Film Production?

Answer
David,

Thanks for writing. I subscribe to your philosophy. To be a good director, whether it's film or theatre, one must know the craft of acting. If you know how actors work, and how to communicate with actors, then as a director you'll better serve them and your text by knowing how to help them create a character and give the best possible performance. You're right when you say in film, a good cinematographer can help a neophyte director realize his vision through the camera.

It helps to know as much about the camera, lenses, and lighting and how all of them help your visual storytelling, but that can be learned in conjunction with watching a DP at work.

You're thinking is sound - you're on the right path. Keep at it!

Good luck!

Phil