A few years back I had just bought my first video camera. I loved it from the start and was filming everything (Sports, Weddings, Parties). It even got to the point where I wondered if I should take it to the next level and get a little more serious about film making. I started to investigate what classes were available at many different schools to see what my options could be.
The most serious program available in Canada was at the Vancouver Film School (VFS) out west. The big problem with VFS was that it cost 25,000 dollars per year to go there! Not such a brilliant plan for a guy basically looking to scratch an itch.
Next, I looked at less high profile programs available at local schools. There were a few out there but the cost was around $4,000 per year and they also were a full time commitment. I wasn’t ready to quit my job and take such a huge risk. I just wanted to get an idea of what it would be like if film making was more than just a hobby.
Then I came across the Canadian Screen Training Center (CSTC). They offered a huge variety of courses at several workshops throughout the year. The cost was about 200 bucks. Bingo! So I signed up for a 2 day workshop in screen writing and it was pretty cool. There was about 10 of us and the guy running it, Jefferson Lewis, was an accomplished screen writer and very good with the class. The 2 day workshop was great and I learned a ton. Though the most important thing I learned was that I am in no way a screen writer lol.
The problem is that the CSTC is heavily funded, and Stephen Harper just cut a pile of arts funding. As of next year the CSTC will no longer be able to put on their workshops. Canada has often been accused of being void of culture, and the arts are a medium through which much culture is developed. It is really too bad. I am glad I got in when I did and learned a 200 dollar lesson, instead of a 25,000 dollar one.
