Learn film production alongside an industry insider in a working Bakersfield film studio. Work directly with a film industry pro. We do things different, learn in the real world and build industry connections.
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We know you’re a few hours from L.A, but wouldn’t it be cool to be able to hang out with all your old friends, not spend a fortune on film school, and still learn everything you need to know about movie-making? Now you can. We’ve brought the Film Connection film school alternative to Bakersfield. That’s right, cats, it’s all there for the taking. We put you in touch with a working moviemaker and they show you the ropes. No joke. Cool, right? We’re Film Connection. Totally fresh. Redefining film school.
Bakersfield, California is located just over 100 miles from Los Angeles, at the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley. Central to mountains, deserts, forests and urban areas, Bakersfield is uniquely positioned for diversity in filmmaking locations. While most area film schools are found in the nearby L.A. area, plenty of film and television production takes place right here in Bakersfield. In fact, the Kern County Film Commission refers to the area as Hollywood’s “extended back lot,” and Bakersfield now even has its own film festival. For those considering a career in filmmaking as a film director, film producer, film editor, or cameraman, Bakersfield can provide an excellent alternative for people who would rather not live in the craziness of “La-La Land.”
The list of well-known movies that have been filmed in and around Bakersfield is understandably long, and includes Thelma & Louise, Wag the Dog, The Cell, the latest re-make of Star Trek (2009), and even such classic films as Hitchock’s Psycho and North by Northwest. Additionally, television production is no stranger to Bakersfield, as the recent TV series Jericho was shot here.
Professional commercials, TV shows and Feature Films are shot in and around Bakersfield every year. Its location near Los Angeles–as well as being a short jaunt from San Francisco, Las Vegas and other locations–makes it ideal for both film students and filmmaking professionals. Many FILM CONNECTION graduates find employment in the film and television industry, often before they even graduate. You owe it to yourself to see what our Bakersfield Film School alternative can do for you.
Some of our graduates have gone on to become film directors, script writers, and production company owners. Others are creating and producing their own films across genres like documentary, drama, comedy, action, and animation
“Working through the second act was tough, but my mentor really helped me unlock the emotional arc of the story.”
Kayla M.
After working in media for a couple of years, I decided to take my skills to the next level in filmmaking. I was fortunate to have joined Film Connection; they supported me from day one with my registration and all the necessary paperwork
Noah Gonzalez
Film Connection does a fantastic job placing you on REAL sets with EXPERIENCED directors, opening doors to build meaningful connections with your mentor and ensuring ongoing learning. You truly get out of the program what you put in.
Octavio Preciado
I got great movie recommendations that gave me many creative influences. My mentor gave constructive feedback on my script. I learned about how to work on a film set and collaborate with other art departments. I enjoyed my experience with Film Connection.
Josh Chacko – Arlington, Washington
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