AFI and one year advance courses

Jon Tubb · August 24, 2004

can anybody tell me how to get into the AFI? do you need any qualifications etc? i have researched courses in the states and so far the best option seems to be the New York Film academy (this is merely because of some of the people that have studied there) although it seems quite expensive for someone of my age and status (21 and £14k in debt due to studying).

Does anybody know of any other courses with a good reputation (maybe specialising in Cinematography) that won't break the bank???

thanks

JT

Jayson Crothers · August 25, 2004

Jon~

AFI is a graduate level program; you COULD go for the "certificate", but it seems a waste to not at least get the MFA out of the experience. Acceptance is based upon an application, a sample of work (typically a demo reel for cinematographers, but some come from a photography background and use a portfolio), and an interview (can be done via phone if you're not based in LA, though I suggest coming to do it in person since it also allows you to walk the city and campus and get a better feel for it). You need a LOT of money, and you need to be fully committed to this pursuit; it's a 24/7 non-stop ride from day one, and it's a place to grow and explore yourself as an artist; it's not a place to figure out if you want to be doing this or not.

I can't speak highly enough about it, but it's also a shock how intense the program is the first year (though with Bill Dill, ASC leaving as head of the cinematography program, we'll see what happens - Stephen Lighthill, ASC is running it now and is an amazing man and teacher).

Phil Rhodes · August 25, 2004

Hi,

How much is "a lot of money?"

If I win the lottery...

Phil

Jayson Crothers · August 26, 2004

Phil, given some of the frustrations we often feel about AFI, your dour outlook would fit right in! Please win the lottery!

A lot of money means $32,500 this year for tutition; it's my final year, and that's a staggering number. Loans and schlarships (LOTS of scholarships) cover that, and the 2nd year you're eligible for scholarships through AFI (though those are also few and far between).

We've all found that drinking helps. Drining heavily. =)

Jayson Crothers · August 26, 2004

Phil, given some of the frustrations we often feel about AFI, your dour outlook would fit right in! Please win the lottery!

A lot of money means $32,500 this year for tutition; it's my final year, and that's a staggering number. Loans and schlarships (LOTS of scholarships) cover that, and the 2nd year you're eligible for scholarships through AFI (though those are also few and far between).

We've all found that drinking helps. Drinking heavily. =)

Phil Rhodes · August 26, 2004

Hi,

I have a dour outlook?

I'd have thought the last thing on the mind of someone on a course like that would be complaining!

Phil

Jayson Crothers · August 26, 2004

The complaining is the typical complaining one finds in any large educational institution where policies are often set for things that aren't in the best interests of its students.

The only real complaint you'll find is the enormous debt we all have; hence the drinking. :D