A GLIMPSE INTO FILM
Giving an insight into careers in the film industry is the aim of Bond University workshops that showcase the amazing variety of work opportunities within the film industry
THE Gold Coast is fast becoming a top spot for film and Bond University is a strong player in the evolution of the industry.
More than 400 Gold Coast high-schoolers last week attended a “Future Filmmakers’” workshop at the
university, learning from dozens of filmmaking professionals.
Students were first greeted with a tour of film and television studios, then met with editor Dan Rice and journalist Maria Lewis for a talk on behind-the-scenes action.
The university’s film programs have already been the launch pad for successful alumni working on blockbuster movies such as Suicide Squad.
In the seven years since its beginning, the Future Filmmakers program has grown so much it has now hosted more than two lecture theatres, as well as having a long waiting list.
Bond University’s director of film and television Associate Professor Michael Sergi said the opportunity was a chance for students to gain inside knowledge of filmmaking.
“The final years of school can be a challenging time for students as they decide where they want to take their careers, so it is important to provide as much information as possible on the career opportunities available,” Prof Sergi said.
“The Future Filmmakers component of the
Gold Coast Film Festival is aimed at showcasing the amazing variety of jobs within the industry – directly from people who work on productions every single day.
“From art directors to editors, film journalists, locations managers, producers and directors, a host of talented professionals will be on-hand to educate the students and answer any questions they have regarding the industry.”
The event also allowed students to hear about the Bond University Film and Television Awards (BUFTA), the largest short film competition for years 11 and 12 in Australia.
The awards have been running for more than a decade, with several categories including animation, drama, comedy and music video.
First prize is a fully paid scholarship to Bond’s bachelor of film and television degree.
Submissions for this year’s competition opened May 1, and will close September 30.
The annual Future Filmmakers program is free to attend but places are limited and will fill up quickly.
Those interested can contact the Gold Coast Film Festival for more information.