A Primer on Film Studies Programs
Do you pride yourself in baffling people at parties with the most obscure film factoids possible? Do you enjoy hour-long debates on the underlying themes and cultural impact of films? If yes, then film theory and film studies programs may provide the ideal forum for your rhetoric and musings, without the side-effect of alienating fellow party-goers.
In many cases, film theory is built into film production, media theory, and philosophy major programs as a course component. As a result, film studies majors bear the perpetual burden of explaining the difference between film studies and film production to everyone who asks about their schooling and to what practical occupation it can be applied.
Occupational Outlook
The study of films and their historical contexts, cultural impacts/influences and philosophical components can be described as a labor of love.
Most people decide to study and critique films at a university not as a means toward advancing their careers or opening their vocational options, but as a means toward personal artistic development or simply as a means unto itself.
Arguably few film studies majors have dreams of becoming the next Roger Ebert. Most would shudder at the thought of selling out in such a demeaning way. Rather they would rather see it as way to hone their artistic language skills toward the expression of ideas in a powerful and meaningful way. Therefore the argument can be made that Film Theory School is another term for Film Elitist Factory.
Why Study Film Theory?
In all seriousness, a structured forum of film critique and analysis can be a powerful tool and prerequisite for later film production studies. Knowing the vocabulary and having a sense of context can help bring ideas into a student film production with heightened clarity, and may be the key to harnessing those elusive kernels of inspiration.
Inversely, film production graduates have a lot to gain by following up their technical education by attending a film theory and film studies program. The ability to communicate the true power and essence of your ideas is integral to your success when working with producers and film crews. Technique, theory, production skills, philosophy, discipline, critical awareness and self-analysis are all necessary components of a powerful creative marriage.
Film theory/film studies programs can be found at many colleges around the world including UC Berkeley's CinemaSpace and The University of Amsterdam's Graduate School for the Humanities.
You may also browse the listings on this site.
