Lights, camera, action
When you think about ways to get creative, film might not be an art form that immediately springs to mind. For most of us film is something we watch, but never think about making ourselves. Maybe now is the time to look at it from a new perspective?
You can do so much with a smartphone these days, it takes very little outlay to become an auteur! Studying genres and eras of film, or a particular director is another option that helps you develop a critical eye. Look for your nearest arthouse cinema instead of heading to the multiplex, or if that isn’t feasible, join a film by post or download scheme.
Invaluable websites include that of the BFI, for details about screenings, events, educational projects, such as their extensive Into Film initiative. Check out Voluntary Arts as well, to find out about film-related art events in your area, and starting a film group or project of your own.
| Why get into film? | Can it be inexpensive? | Is there a family option? |
|---|---|---|
| Film is a really creative and fun way to document your life and surroundings or use your imagination to tell a story | With the capabilities of modern smartphones you don’t need fancy equipment. Most of us walk around with film making equipment in our pockets every day, without thinking about it! | Why not go to see a film together with your family and then discussing what you liked or didn’t like about it, or digging out a video camera and making your own film |
What would you like to try?
Film on your phone
For most of us film is something we watch, but never think about making ourselves
Professional film-making isn’t a cheap business, with studios investing millions on every production. But making your own film needn’t cost the earth, if you get wise to the technical wizardry available on smartphones now. These days you can film, edit and use special effects to make your creation more professional. Even the most obvious advice can make a difference – such as holding your phone with both hands to reduce wobbling, and holding it horizontal, so the recording looks better on a TV or computer monitor.
Before you attempt anything too ambitious, why not hone your skills with micro video? This encompasses smart phone applications such as Vine, Instagram Video and Keek that allow users to record videos for short periods of time. These range from 36 seconds for Keek and 15 for Instagram Video right down a recording limit of six seconds for Vine.
You’ll find a wealth of information about getting the best out of your smartphone at the BBC Academy website.
Tell your story
If you are stumped for a story, that needn’t stop you getting creative with a camera. How about interviewing the oldest person in your family about their life and experiences for a short film? Chances are you will end up with footage your family will treasure for generations. If your friends or family are keen to flex their acting muscles, why not pen a script for them? You don’t need to worry about fancy sets and costumes.
Film school
Fervent about film and up for taking an academic approach? You could get a lot out of a film studies class. It’s a discipline that deals with various theoretical, historical and critical approaches to films, exploring the narrative, artistic, cultural, economic, and political implications of the cinema. Hunt out classes at your local college. You could immerse yourself in World Cinema, or study the works of legendary film directors like Eisenstein, Hitchcock, Kubrick or Coppola.
Join the club
Why not join a film club to go and watch films as a group and discuss them later. If there isn’t a suitable group near you, start your own with friends. You could vote on what to watch, or let each member take a turn at screening their favourite film.
And the winner is....
Take a light-hearted approach to film appreciation by throwing a film awards party, before an event like the Academy Awards or film BAFTAs. Get guests to wear their best red carpet attire, and vote on who’ll scoop the trophies, with a prize after the ceremony for the guest with the most correct answers. If you are watching the ceremony live, you could also make a list of classic winner’s speech lines. Assign one to each guest and give them a spot prize every time one’s uttered!
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