Breaking into the UK film industry

[Prendi]

Hi Everyone,

Sorry if I've posted this in the wrong section, maybe a mod could move it if need be. Also, sorry if this has already been covered elsewhere. If it has, maybe someone could just post a link.

I'm at of a bit of a turning point in my career and after many years in the action sports (primarily snowboarding) industry, I'm feeling the need to branch out and explore new genres. I've had an amazing 9 years and been lucky enough to travel the world and work with some amazing talent, however, I've pigeon holed myself. The contacts that I make are seldom outside the action sports world, and now I'm a bit lost as to what to do next. I'm currently based in Austria, but I'm planning to move back to the UK in about 6 months. Hence the reason for starting this thread...

I would like to hear other peoples opinion about how to get into the UK film industry. I'm under no illusions, I know that this isn't always a clear path and that there is no magic formula to breaking in. But if anyone who is already working in UK film could give any tips as to where start, that would be amazing i.e. Should I start with agencies? Do I need to start at runner level? Is it case of calling every production house and asking if they might require my services?

Many thanks in advance!

[lawriejaffa]

What is it your wanting to achieve bro? A career as a director or production role for hire? or a producer/director for your own projects etc? Maybe a bit more specifics and can advise a tiny bit!

[Prendi]

Sorry, yeah not all that specific hey! For me personally, I'd like to eventually work as a DOP, but I understand that that maybe some years away.


For anyone else who might be reading this, any advise that someone might have for other roles would be appreciated too.

[Prendi]

Serious, no one else interested in this subject?

[Ewan L]

You could try starting by getting small jobs on set then work your way up. Look on Craigslist for job postings.

[iamWZA]

Make a really good film.

[David Parsons]

I think the lack of response may be due to the fact that, although you've said that you've worked in the action sports industry, you haven't said in what capacity.

[Prendi]

I have been working as a camera operator, editor and the last 2 years I've been directing.

iamWZA... Great input

Anyways, if anyone who actually works in the UK film industry would like to respond, it would be great to hear your input. What I'm really looking for is an answer that goes something like "I am currently working as a DP at xxx and I found that the best place to find experience was xxx and xxx. Once I gained some experience on set, I approached these agencies xxx and xxx, and now I'm a millionaire.

[iamWZA]

What I'm really looking for is an answer that goes something like "I am currently working as a DP at xxx and I found that the best place to find experience was xxx and xxx. Once I gained some experience on set, I approached these agencies xxx and xxx, and now I'm a millionaire.

...seems legit

[Prendi]

@iamWZA, you're a fountain of knowledge. Thanks for being awesome.