I attended the FilmFlex Program in 2006/07. I chose selected courses that I hoped would fit my profile and career ambitions in the industry, choosing to bypass to option for the equipment package (and fee) and pay a per course rate. In so doing I also bypassed my chance at the industry partnership certificate that was offered upon completing the course. As with any arts program, there are ups and downs in the curriculum, with the professors, and often with the organization of the program.
The courses I chose pertained to Film Writing and Business, including Film scheduling, budgeting, production management, law and structure. Since finishing the program, I have opened a production company with my husband (a full fledged graduate of the program). We are working towards supporting ourselves full-time through production work, though we both currently work part-time outside the industry. We have been involved with music videos, corporate projects, and web commercials. I have written several shorts, have a feature in the works, and have pitched for a film festival. We are planning to film a festival-aimed short this summer. I also do script reading for several production companies, as well as for writing colleagues looking for feedback. This comes from the knowledge base and connections that were developed at BCIT, plus an active pursuit of industry connections since graduating.
I found my focus after coming through BCIT mostly on writing. I felt that the courses centered on writing gave great insight into script formatting, plot development, character arcs, and an introduction into Final Draft screenwriting software. I came out of the program with several short films I’d written and had critiqued both by my instructor and my classmates, as well as 30 pages of a television pilot. The program gave a good overview into writing for the screen, though it is by no means an intensive writing program. Since finishing my courses I have met with other writers, continued to read scripts, and write on my own. I found the instructor for the writing courses helpful, informative and inspiring. This impacted how I felt about BCIT as a whole, since writing was the area I wanted to learn the most about, upon my admittance.
FilmFlex Positives
- A well-rounded introduction to the nuances of production, post-production and screenwriting.
- Access to professional instructors who are active in the industry on various levels.
- Basic understanding of various industry related programs, equipment, and terminology.
- A credible certificate from a recognized school (not applicable in my case, due to my part time status).
- The option to purchase an equipment package for far less than retail value. This equipment allows you to contract yourself out as a videographer post graduation, or to film credible short films. (If the program has upgraded to HD, this is even better). The camera that was provided with my husband’s year is equal to the camera that Danny Boyle’s “28 Days Later” was shot on.
FilmFlex Negatives
- A lack of organized curriculum resulting in some misunderstanding of course objectives, and occasional repetition or contrasting ideas between various courses.
- FilmFlex seems to be of a lesser priority to the higher ups at BCIT. When we went and asked for information at the reception desk, they didn’t know the program we were referring to and tried to direct us off campus. (This may not necessarily be the department’s fault.)
- Entry is granted to anyone who has the money to attend resulting in a portion of every class that is not interested in doing the necessary work, slowing the class down through their lack of dedication.
The Verdict
I would recommend FilmFlex to anyone seeking a program that will provide a wide range of basic knowledge regarding the Film Industry. It is ultimately designed for those who wish to open their own production companies post graduation, though not limited to that (many fellow grads obtained industry jobs in both production unions and the post-production field). That being said, this program is only 12 months and will not provide all the knowledge necessary to work in the industry.
As with any arts school, Spielberg-type success is never a guarantee
I would not recommend FilmFlex for someone who is not willing to take affirmative action and make their career happen through their own initiative. FilmFlex gave us the knowledge and the equipment necessary to get started, and we have been working hard at paving our own Yellow Brick Road so to speak, since graduation. It’s a lot of cash to spend, so be sure its what you want, and that you have the drive to follow through. As with any arts school, Spielberg-type success is never a guarantee.
Please visit the Langer Productions website to see some of our work.
(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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