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The Film School/Art School Debate is Pointless
Disclosure: I went to film AND art school.
If you ever visit any online forum for art or filmmaking, you will come across some version of this question:
I’m just starting out. Should I go to film/art school?
The responses are always the same:
Yes, you need to learn your craft before you call yourself a professional.
Yes, so you can build a network.
No, because you can’t teach talent!
No, it’s a waste of money. Spend the money on equipment and learn by doing.
No, study something else THEN follow your dream.
I went then dropped out. Best decision I ever made!
But why are we having this debate? Why it is important for pro-school folks to assert that school is important, and why it is important to anti-school folks to convince others that school is a waste of time? What are our agendas here?