The direction to making films

Prabhdeep Singh

Filmmaking is possibly the most creatively challenging field of mass media. A blend of creativity and technical knowhow, films not only are a source of entertainment and information, but also communication. The domain includes feature films, documentaries, promotional films, TV commercials, music videos, etc. 

Teamwork is a prerequisite of filmmaking. Planning and coordination between skilled individuals, playing different roles in front and behind the camera, goes into the making of a film. It also comprises acting, directing, producing, script writing, cinematography, sound recording, visual mixing, editing and so on.

A filmmaker has to pay attention to all aspects equally. She should have creative as well as technical knack for story ideas and should be able to implement the ideas effectively.  The job of a filmmaker demands a lot of work, that is, from ideating, finalising script, casting, writing screenplay, getting music produced, deciding budget, sets and location… the list is endless. She is also responsible for raising capital for the film to its distribution and screening.

The field of filmmaking is highly competitive. At the same time, it offers a lot in terms of employment opportunities. Especially in India, where a large number of  films release each year. If one has artistic and technical skills, and the ability to  execute ideas, one can reap dividends in this field. 

 Training helps hone the acting and directing skills. Even for areas like cinematography, sound engineering and editing, professional training is essential. Following are some of job profiles that you can opt for after completing your education.  

Director

A director is the creative controller of the film. She is the one who gives the product a shape and character.  She takes care of all the creative inputs — selecting music and graphics, supervising the ‘edit’ or deciding the camera angles. A programme director in filmmaking is in charge of shooting and provides direction to performers and technical crew. Once the shooting is done, programme director supervises the post-production work i.e. editing and sound dubbing.

Floor manager

Work profile of a floor manager can be divided into two areas: liaison between the producer/director and people on the studio floor, and taking responsibility of floor management. Keeping safety checks is an important part of the work profile. Leadership qualities are essential to take up this role.

Production manager

Production manager makes arrangements for procuring technical and other equipment, fixes the editing schedules after consultation with the producer-director, books studios, and arranges for every logistical detail. The responsibilities of a production manager are, thus, many. An active, resourceful and capable manager qualifies as a production manager. If you want to be one, start your career as an assistant by working with a senior professional and later graduate to the full-fledged role of a production manager.

Researcher

The researcher is responsible for information management. He is expected to provide facts and figures for scripts, graphics, etc. News, current-affairs programmes, quizzes, infotainment shows and documentaries require extensive collaboration from researchers who are expected to contribute ideas for the programme and prepare material for particular items. 

Scriptwriter

Scriptwriter writes scripts for TV serials, documentaries or films. He must be an ace wordsmith to add punch and meaning to the plot. If you don’t have a flair for writing, steer clear of this one. 

Production assistant

Production assistant works under the supervision of the producer or the production manager. She make sure that everyone is where they need to be, transport actors and crew to the sets, get the reams of paperwork signed by the right people, announce costume fittings, or last minute changes and so on. 

The writer is HOD,  University Media 

Centre, Chandigarh University, Gharuan.

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Cameraperson

Cameraperson contributes immensely towards a film’s success. She is the one who captures the moment that sells the product. She translates the script into visual form. The role demands spotting the unusual in usual settings to complement the script. Naturally, then, acuteness of perception and artistic ability are as important as an extensive technical knowledge of lights and filters. 

Music composer

Almost every film, irrespective of its nature or content, leans on musical scores. If you can churn out compositions with versatility, you will fare well. Begin by joining an established orchestra and watch out for better avenues.

Institution watch

• Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune
• Whistling Woods International, Mumbai
• Delhi Film Institute, Delhi
• Punjabi University, Patiala 
• Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, Kolkata:
• Center for Research in Art of Film and Television, Delhi
• Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida
• Chandigarh University, Gharuan 
• National Institute  of  Design, Ahmedabad