In an innovative use of “Distance Learning” techniques, the DGA’s Videoconferencing Program for Film Schools brings film students from around the country together with DGA members in Hollywood to discuss career issues and the art and craft of directing. Film school students interact with working DGA members who “meet” with them from the Guild’s offices in Los Angeles through the convenience of telecommunications technology.

The program is the brainchild of the DGA’s Special Projects’ Academic Outreach Sub-committee. A committee member acts as moderator, welcoming the students, describing the mission of the program and then introducing the director/director team participants, who then has an up to one-hour online conversation with the film school and its students.

Thus far the program has included Director Randal Kleiser (Grease, The Blue Lagoon) who talked with students of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; Director Millicent Shelton (Dance Like We Do, Ride) who told San Antonio College students about her career and how she got her start directing; and Director Joe Menendez (The Hunting of Man, The Imposter) who discussed similar matters with Ball State University students. Director Donald Petrie’s (Welcome to Mooseport, Miss Congeniality) discussion with Vanderbilt University students centered on “where to put the camera” and the making of his film How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days. Director Gary Fleder (Runaway Jury, Kiss the Girls) gave Miami-Dade Community College students an update on his post film school career path and his film, Don’t Say a Word. Director John Stockwell (Blue Crush, Cheaters) and AD Rip Murray (The Girl Next Door, Joe Dirt) discussed specific scenes from the film Crazy/Beautiful with students of Kansas University.

The DGA Special Projects Department is seeking to continue this program with other qualified film schools. Although the service is offered free of charge, each school must meet the technical requirements to successfully videoconference with the Guild’s equipment. If you attended an out-of-state film program and would like to help your Alma Mater take advantage of this opportunity, please contact Leslie Slomka, DGA Special Events Coordinator (310-289-5318 or leslies@dga.org)