Here I am in a new city, looking for a new place and with a future needing to be taken care of. Perfect timing, I am stuck in bed, sick; oh joy. I usually find comfort in watching old movies, my favourite classics. Yet, today I feel guilty. I am not being productive. That ‘I’m useless’ feeling is taking over. Trying to do some real work seems to only drain the little energy I have left. So, I’m striking a compromise. I am watching educational videos. I can still relax (and even fall asleep), but I might learn something new along the way. Since I am trying to chase that feeling of uselessness away I might just share with you some of the interesting video channels I usually browse. Here we go: 10 filmmaking online video channels for you to browse when you are sick (or even when you are not).
Filmmakers don’t make excuses they make films. Film Courage offers new video interviews daily. Screenwriters, producers, actors, directors and a lot more share stories, experiences, & wisdom from the world of independent film. If you need to find that extra bit of courage to continue on your journey, listen how other people survived and strived.
Cinephilia and Beyond is a time machine. They bring you back to the classics, their makers and their secrets. This is for the cinephiles and the filmmakers alike. Do not forget to check out their website too, there are more gems to be found over there than you could imagine. http://www.cinephiliabeyond.org
Here is another time machine. Eyes On Cinema brings you to the sets, suites and interview halls of some of the most influential filmmakers. They discuss their crafts, philosophies and inspirations.
Relatively new to the scene, the amazing folks of RJFS have already delivered a serious amount of great lessons on their Youtube channel. From screenwriting, to producing, to lightning, to editing and more we can see that the aim is to introduce young aspiring filmmakers to key concepts and techniques. If you are new to all this, or simply need a refresher grab a couple of their lessons.
These guys have been at it for quite some time and probably do not need my introduction. I am especially fond of their ‘Quick Tips’ and ‘Mondays’ episode. Film Riot is a how-to trip through filmmaking with a keen emphasis on effects. They explore the art of filmmaking in an entertaining, well paced and exciting way.
There is something a bit old school about Filmmaker IQ, and I mean this as a compliment. Gone are the attempts at making something flashy, trendy and more exciting than it is, because it is already exciting, interesting and valuable in itself. Sit back and enjoy their lessons, some are historical, some are practical, some are simply inspirational.
DP/30 promises to deliver the oral history of Hollywood. Think of a household name and there is a very high chance that DP/30 have recorded an interview with that name. Want to spend some time ‘chatting’ with famed directors, actors, writer and more?
Straight from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Science, the “Academy Originals” are a documentary-style video series with episodes examining everything from the creative process, to the moments that changed the course of filmmaking, to the artists who are charting its future.
From the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, BAFTA Guru gives you access to some of the finest minds working in the film, TV and games industries. They share their knowledge and what inspired their art forms.
Every Frame a Painting is dedicated to the analysis of film form. The channel has been quiet lately, but we hope it will be back with more analysis and video essays soon.
I could continue this list, and it could become very long. There are numerous valuable educational filmmaking and film related channels online. Some offer inspiration, some analysis, other will take the time to jump into the details of specific pieces of equipment and software with multitude of tutorials and tips. The information is out there. Your learning depends on your dedication, curiosity and the amount of energy you have left. I could continue, but I am tired, did I mention I am sick. Hot drink. Check. Warm blanket. Check. Please excuse me, I have a meeting with my pillow to attend.
