As I was reading through the studio descriptions, Deliberate Film was definitely one of the studios that caught my eye. And, after more careful consideration, it became my first preference.
Initially, this was because the studio is practical. We will be actively making short films throughout the semester, and narrative film-making is where I want to take my career. The practical nature of the studio also indicated that it will give me many opportunities to develop my production skills in an understanding and collaborative environment – which is ultimately why I chose RMIT in the first place.
I was also very impressed that the studio will explore a large number of mini-projects, each focused on a particular skill. I think that that’s an incredible way to learn! It will allow focused technical analysis of each separate skill.. And this is done in an academic and supportive environment – where we know that our skills will be fostered and developed.
Further to that, I believe that the support of peers is invaluable. The learning model of this studio encourages you to learn from the ideas of others. Analyzing their work can be just as useful as analyzing your own, as you might notice things that you otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to. It might also highlight flaws or gaps in your own work, as it gives you a greater degree of objectivity.
Another attraction is the need to respond to a series of individual prompts, which will allow us to explore areas of film that we might not usually choose for a larger project. This will broaden my experience and confidence to try new things, which will in turn open more doors. In the Australian film industry, particularly – where work can be scarce at the best of times – this will be invaluable, and will increase employability.
Finally, I like the idea that the studio considers constraints. As young filmmakers starting out, there will certainly be constraints. Some of these will be technical – limitations in technology, not having adequate funding to produce that car chase scene – but they will also be conceptual and philosophical. If we are working for a client, we will have to produce the product that they desire – which might differ from our ideal. We need to learn to work with the expectations to keep the client happy – a skill that I am hoping to develop.
This course really plays into my learning style. I have always been a practical learner, eager to get out and do things. I have also always known that I benefit from reflecting on any given activity in depth – something that times not always permit. Having the opportunity to not only go out and film, but also to deeply analyse, that will is my ideal course.
So, overall in this studio, I hope to develop and refine my production skills, working on each skill individually so afterwards, I have the ability to combine them to produce a better overall product. I also hope to learn how to work with constraints and how to remain creative when limitations come into play. Finally, I want to further develop my analytical abilities, through reviewing both my own work and the work of others.
