Examining some of the world's top film schools

Continuing our previous conversations in 'Should I go to Filmschool?', we wanted to look at some more of the well-known schools around the world. This time we visit schools in Prague, Beijing, Lodz, LA, and London to find out what makes these establishments stand out as students look to go back to or start a new University or College in Summer 2023.

In our previous article we wrote about four outstanding educational establishments for filmmakers around the world; the Australian Film Television and Radio School, the MetFilm School, the London Film School, and the Hochschule für Fernsehen and Film München. Here are five more to chose from for anyone looking to take the education path to a career in the industry.

Academy of Performing Arts Film and TV School: Prague, Czechia

The Academy of Performing Arts Film and TV School (FAMU) is an institution that serves as a gateway to the world of film and television and has been around for over seven decades, which makes it the fifth oldest film school in Europe. Located in the city of Prague, FAMU offers a dynamic and culturally rich environment for aspiring filmmakers.

At FAMU, students have the opportunity to explore six accredited study programs and twelve departments, which teach 12 programs in Czech and 4 programs in English. FAMU's filmmaking programs provide a hands-on approach to learning, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare students for successful careers in the film industry. The departments include directing, cinematography, editing, photography, sound design, scriptwriting, and game design.

The school has a specialised FAMU unit that primarily facilitates the production of all practical exercises called The Studio FAMU. It provides facilities to exercise production from 35mm/16mm film cameras, film editing rooms, and two sound studios to modern projection & image / sound postproduction suites.

Find out more about FAMU here.

Beijing Film Academy: Beijing, China

Beijing Film Academy (BFA) is the only film academy in China and the largest film academy in Asia. Founded in 1950, BFA has a reputation for being one of the best film schools in China and around the world. Located in the city of Beijing, it provides students with a unique cultural backdrop and access to a thriving film industry. They have opportunities to collaborate with local filmmakers, participate in film festivals, and engage with the rich cinematic heritage of China.

At BFA, students can explore your passion for filmmaking and dive into various aspects of the craft, such as directing, cinematography, and screenwriting. The academy boasts a team of experienced and supportive faculty members who are dedicated to helping students succeed. With state-of-the-art equipment and resources, BFA provides hands-on training and encourages creative experimentation. 

Find out more about BFA here.

Lodz Film School: Lodz, Poland

The Lodz Film School (LFSA)  was founded back in 1948 and has a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading film schools in Poland and beyond. It is one of the oldest film schools in the world and puts special emphasis on practical work in its teaching program. Located in the city of Lodz, LFSA provides a nurturing and inspiring environment for students to explore the art of filmmaking.

Whether your passion lies in directing, screenwriting, cinematography, or production design, LFSA offers a diverse range of programs tailored to your interests. Its daily classes are held at its film and television studio facilities as well as at post-production and special effects computer classrooms. The school offers full-time film school-employed camera operators and sound recordists, with all their wealth of knowledge and experience helping the students make their first films. By joining the LFSA community, students connect with fellow filmmakers, collaborate on projects, and immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the magic of storytelling.

Find out more about LFSA here.

University of Southern California: Los Angeles, USA

The University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles stands as an iconic institution renowned for its exceptional academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. Established in 1880, USC has evolved into a world-class university that attracts students from around the globe. Its leading private research university is a global center for arts, technology and international business. It is home to the College of Letters, Arts and Sciences and 22 exceptional academic schools and units.  

With a commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, USC offers a wide range of academic disciplines, including arts, sciences, engineering, business, and, notably, a renowned School of Cinematic Arts (SCA), which is dedicated to the art and craft of filmmaking, animation, and interactive media. With a rich history dating back to 1929, SCA has consistently ranked among the top film schools globally and has produced numerous successful alumni who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

Find out more about USC here.

National Film and TV School: Beaconsfield, UK

The National Film and TV School (NFTS) is an institution that opens doors to the exciting world of film and television. NFTS has a reputation of being renowned as one of the top film schools in the United Kingdom. Located in the heart of the country, the NFTS provides a vibrant and inspiring environment for budding filmmakers to unleash their creativity. After opening its doors in 1971, it has been a filmmaking center since Beaconsfield Studios first opened for business in 1921. For half a century, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) has developed some of Britain’s, and the world’s, top creative talents. Awarded with both the 2018 BAFTA for Outstanding Contribution to British Cinema and the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education, the National Film and Television School has produced over 3,800 alumni in its 50-year history who have won 13 Oscars, 145 BAFTAs, 70 Emmys and countless nominations across all of them.

At the NFTS, you can explore various facets of the film industry, from directing and screenwriting to cinematography, editing, and production design. The school boasts a faculty of accomplished industry professionals who are dedicated to helping you develop your skills and craft. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, the NFTS offers hands-on training and fosters an environment of creative experimentation. By becoming part of the NFTS community, you join a network of passionate filmmakers, collaborate on groundbreaking projects, and immerse yourself in a community that celebrates the art of storytelling.

Find out more about NFTS here.