Learning never stops, in fact this pandemic has taught us new ways to adapt to the situations and to continue being productive even at such a time of crises.
The education sector has shifted from classroom learning to online teaching. The mere thought of shifting schools to a device was unthinkable but with changing times and circumstances new methods are getting adopted. Now, as we are witnessing the gradual re-opening of institutions, we can also see how they have taken up the idea of blended learning.
Blended learning is basically combining the classroom (offline) with the online classes. A model in which the students get to learn both ways. There is a clear demarcation between theoretical online classes and the practical offline ones. This module seems to be working right now as it not only continues with educating but also follows all the safety protocols.
But it is quite possible that questions of such a module working or not may arise, especially in a field like filmmaking. To understand, let’s look at things backwards.
With no prior experience, artists and creators have transitioned to creating films and shows remotely; from their homes digitally. Take for instance “The Gone Game”, a psychological thriller web show directed by Nikhil Bhatt. This was shot within the confines of all the actors’ homes and directed remotely during the lockdown. Another example is the awareness short film that released last year; Titled ‘Family’, the film had names like Amitabh Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Rajnikanth, Mammooty, Mohanlal, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Ranbir Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Diljit Dosanjh, Sonalee and Alia Bhatt. Director Prasoon Pandey, made this film possible virtually, directing his actors through sending them a video reference of himself which was then shot by their respective family members.
Full fledged films and shows are being produced while staying at home. While the director directs from behind their screens, the actors perform at their place. Virtual productions with the usage of green screens have become common. With this rapid evolution of technology, there is an increased demand for professionals who can work within new boundaries.
Some other high-profile projects to have already embraced virtual production include Star Wars spin-off The Mandalorian for Disney+ and live-action feature The Lion King.
If an entire production is possible then teaching this course is absolutely doable.
As mentioned earlier learning doesn’t stop. Students look for surety and search for the best filmmaking courses.
Annapurna College of Film and Media, Hyderabad is one such institute which has adapted to these times and has adopted the concept of blended learning. With students studying the major theory part online and visiting the campus in small groups for practicals/shoots, Annapurna College has made it possible for them to continue the learning as per the current normal.
The graduation programmes as well as the short courses not only offer course modules but also proper training for what a student signs up for, all the while without breaking any rules.
With such a training, a student is ready not only for a film set but also for functioning professionally in remote set-ups.
Some words to live by during these unpredictable times by Dan Mintz, CEO of DMG Entertainment, “I do believe that creativity overcomes all”
Sources:
https://www.impactonnet.com/amp/interview/family-how-prasoon-pandey-made-a-zero-budget-star-studded-ad-film-out-of-home-6856.html
https://www.cnbc.com/2020/06/05/coronavirus-will-change-how-film-sets-operate-four-experts-explain.html
INPUTS CURATED BY ANNAPURNA COLLEGE TEAM
