Future filmmakers given ‘access-all-areas' experience
Students have been given first-hand insight into the fast-paced world of filmmaking at Pinewood Studios.
The MA Filmmaking students are taught at Pinewood by Associate Professor Dr Tom McGorrian as part of their Producing and Directing module. The unique location gives them the opportunity to experience the industry up close, and it means that opportunities often arise to support filmmaking projects on the studio lot.
Most recently, students assisted with the production Click by the Actors Studio, a production company based at Pinewood that delivers screen-acting courses and produces professional showreels and original film projects.
MA Filmmaking student Alice Belewa said her time at Pinewood has broadened her understanding of the industry. She added: “I don’t want to limit myself when I can be versatile and learn all parts of the industry. On this course, you pick up a bit of everything.”
Alice, who graduated in BA Film and Television Production at BNU and was valedictorian for creative and digital industries at her graduation, added: “It can be long hours but it’s what I want to do. Being here is great because you can come off campus and really focus on your work.”
Fellow Master’s student Danish Javed was drawn to the course because of BNU’s presence at Pinewood. A Director of Photography, he has held several production roles in his home country of Pakistan.
“There’s a really practical approach to teaching, so you learn a lot,” Danish said. “In the work I've done in the past I’ve had experience of the creative side of the industry, but this course also covers project planning and things like that. It’s very new to me, but it’s a good experience.”
Freelance Producer Tom Diamond said working with master’s and undergraduate students was a huge benefit for filmmakers on the Pinewood estate. “For them I’m sure it’s eye-opening. You need to move quickly and get stuck into everything - from moving equipment to setting up in front of the camera - but they get the full experience.
“For us, you’re always looking for the next generation of talent. The film industry is a massive machine and it needs lots of energy and persistence.”
BNU’s long-standing partnership with Pinewood Studios spans everything from screenwriting to costume design and hair and make-up, with cross-department collaboration opportunities continuing to grow.