MANY LINKS IN THE CHAIN

Like any major organisation, the new film studios will rely on a supply chain of skills to meet the demands of the film industry. The University of Sunderland is already gearing up to ensure those demands are met through a range of programmes that are already running.

Costume Design

Think of some of the many iconic costumes and looks that film and TV have brought us: Audrey Hepburn’s little black dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the Afrofuturism of Marvel’s Black Panther or the dark mask of Darth Vader in Star Wars.

All of this was made possible through the dedication and eye for detail that costume designers must have to bring characters alive on screen. The university’s fashion design courses gives students the tools and skills to translate their talent on set.

Graphic Design

Graphic design can cover so many aspects of film making which covers anything from creating promotional material like posters for movies to perfecting minute details on props used to film, all things that graphic design students have the opportunity to learn. Visual storytelling goes beyond the camera, as it is also about communicating with audiences why this film is so important to watch.

Engineering

Despite the advances in CGI and AI in the industry, so many productions still embrace and rely on physical effects and sets. Licensed mechanical engineers are a must to ensure the safety and efficiency of complex props and effects that move, fly and even explode – all skills that students can learn on the university’s engineering courses.

Tourism

One of the benefits of having an internationally recognised production hub on our doorstep will likely extend to the wider community. Like The Lord of the Rings workshop tours, or visitors flocking to Northern Ireland to immerse themselves in Game of Thrones territory a big commercial success could bring a huge boost in tourism for the region and bring opportunities to students on tourism and events courses.

Animation

Animation is continuously reaching new heights in popularity, making it a major part of film production. Whether it’s stop animation, computer-generated graphics or animating characters, animation and games art students at the University of Sunderland have the chance to develop their skills and creativity to start their careers in this sector.