Students get hands-on training by making their own movies at the Palm Beach Film School

Los Angeles may be the first place that comes to mind when you think “sun-drenched indie film scene,” but The Palm Beach Film School offers eight- and 16-week programs that take students through every step of the moviemaking process. Designed specifically for beginners, Palm Beach’s curriculum, which is taught by local indie moviemakers such as Sound instructor Larry de Carmine (Malcolm X, Clockers), covers writing, directing, cinematography, lighting, sound and editing. By requiring that students understand the process from start to finish, the Palm Beach Film School produces graduates who are prepared to jump into their specific fields of interest, whether it’s directing, producing or writing, with a well-rounded body of knowledge.School director Jim York cites the school’s “hands-on, learn-by-doing” training program as the key to its success. Palm Beach students graduate from the school with their own digital shorts on DVD, ready to submit to distributors or festivals. Students assist with each other’s projects, learning the ins and outs of creating a film from a variety of different angles. As an added bonus, York adds, “The learning doesn’t end once you graduate. Graduates are allowed to use the school’s equipment and facilities for approved future films. Best of all, the school offers many unique tropical locations for shooting.” Sun, sand and a superb educational opportunity? A film student couldn’t ask for much than that.

For more information, visit www.palmbeachfilmschool.com.