Ample jobs in film and TV
MILLPAK – AFDA’s Brent Quinn talks film and TV – how to make it in the South African industry.
“Art is a thought.” These are the words of AFDA Film School’s head of film and TV Brent Quinn.
According to him, art requires a lot of thinking, trial and error and, most of all, discipline.
“To make it in film and TV, you need a lot of qualities and to be guided by people who have experience. People who are self-taught cannot become good in an industry like this, hence formal training is very crucial.”
Quinn added that prospective filmmakers should not worry about employment opportunities.
“Everyone says be careful when you get into this industry because there are no jobs, but I can assure you that there are a lot of opportunities. Many of the big names in the industry come out of AFDA. We lay a foundation so much that by the time of graduation you are employed.”
According to Quinn, AFDA graduates employ other people a few years after graduating.
“Storytelling is a new form of language and with a qualification in this industry, there are many industries one can go into.”
Because of the fear of employment opportunities and other underlying factors, some parents may be uncomfortable with their children undertaking this career path.
“Most parents are nervous, but it is possible to make it. I am a parent and I am encouraging my children to venture into this industry.”
According to Quinn, “Making a film usually costs between R4 million and R10 million. Low-budget films range between R2 million and somewhere leading to R4 million. It is difficult to put a price because there are a lot of factors involved in the costs. South Africa is one of the cheapest countries in terms of film-making rates,” he said.
To be a great film-maker according to Quinn, one has to have something to say, thrive on creativity and be passionate.
Tips for those who want to venture into the film and television industry:
- Find your passion and follow the chosen career.
- Become profoundly curious about the field. Read, investigate and be like a sponge by sucking in all the information you possibly can.
- Seek a good teacher and an environment that can push you to be a better person in the field.
- Understand that you have to work in a team and inspire others. Nothing can be done in isolation.
- Remember, the highest thing we serve is the audience.
