Letter from the Chair

Our goal is to create a new generation of filmmakers who are leaders in their field, through a comprehensive visual arts education, hallmarked by a deep understanding of every aspect of filmmaking.

Recently, an executive at DreamWorks Animation said: “What I like about Art Center Film is that you understand movies aren’t just shot any more, they’re designed.”  Indeed, the art of filmmaking demands a far broader range of skills than ever before.  Also, motion pictures are created not just for movie theaters and television, but to be viewed on computers and mobile devices.  Tools exist that can bring to life literally anything a filmmaker can imagine - tools rapidly becoming affordable even for individuals. Still, despite the dazzling advances in technology, regardless of the size of the screen or the length of the work, a filmmaker must first and foremost be a visual storyteller. 

Every aspect of our curriculum focuses on students mastering the technical aspects of moviemaking in order to serve the narrative.  We also believe filmmaking should be taught by accomplished, working professionals, as evidenced in the faculty list below.  Class sizes are small, fostering close, mentoring relationships between instructor and student.  New students are shooting immediately in HD; advanced students shoot on 35mm.  Our interdisciplinary ties to Art Center’s other visual arts and design departments gives us a true interdisciplinary curriculum, offering a comprehensive education in all of the visual arts related to contemporary filmmaking.  This thorough understanding of the entire filmmaking process gives our students the necessary skills and confidence to succeed, whether working for the studios and networks or independently.  More so than ever, filmmakers must be leaders, visionaries and entrepreneurs.  We are here to help them realize their dreams.

Ross LaManna
Film Department Chair