Top 15 Colleges to Learn Movie Direction in India

Mani Karthik

Entrepreneur. Mentor. Blogger

“Producing is hell, writing is frustrating, acting is really satisfying, directing is heaven”- Salma Hayek

I can say the direction is the heart of the movie without which a movie cannot be made. If a movie is successful, then the director becomes the talk of the town next to the actors. But If a movie flops, they won’t say the actors have not acted properly or it is a bad story. Instead, they will ask ‘Who directed this movie? and they become the cause for failure. So directing a movie is not a simple job but a daunting task as it involves a lot of responsibilities and the major ones are below.

– Story
– Screenplay
– Casting
– Deciding the budget
– Shooting locations
Music
– Dialogues
– Cinematography

The director does not have to do all the jobs above but they have to guide/monitor all aspects of the movie. Especially if it is the first movie for the director, then they have to put extra effort. Also, the director should have a good rapport with the actors and technicians from the beginning of the movie till it goes to the theatres. Nowadays the Indian youth are also interested in movie direction equally when compared to acting and many institutes in India provide courses in film direction.

Tip: There are many free online courses available from reputed Universities and Colleges. Check them out!

1. Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune

FTII is one of the top 5 preferred institutes in India for learning movie direction. It was started in 1960 and it has become an autonomous Institute under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Govt. of India. The popular alumni of this institute include Subhash Ghai, Raj Kumar Hirani, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, etc.

Courses:

– Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Direction

Admission:

The candidate should be a graduate in any discipline from a recognized university.12 seats are available for this course and the selection process involves an entrance examination.
Fees & Course Admission Details Here

movie_direction_course_India

2. Satyajit Ray Films and Television Institute, Kolkata

SRFTI was established in 1995 as an autonomous Institute under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Govt. of India.It is also a member of CILECT, the international Association of Film and Television Schools.

Courses:

– 3-year (full time), Postgraduate Programme in Cinema (Specialisation offered: Direction & Screenplay Writing)

Admission:

The candidate should be a graduate in any discipline from a recognized university.12 seats per specialization are available for this course and the selection process involves an entrance examination,4-day orientation course, and a final interview. Fees & Course Admission Details Here.

3. The ICE Institute

ICE is an initiative by Ekta Kapoor focused on creating new talent in the field of Media & Entertainment.

Backed by some of the best in the industry, ICE kick-started the filming and performing arts courses and programs back in 2010. Since then, the institute has become one of the leading ones in India to learn movie direction.

Admission details can be obtained here.

Website – https://www.theiceinstitute.com

4. Center for Research in Art of Film and Television (CRAFT), Delhi

CRAFT was started in the year 2006 by a nonprofit organization to improve the discipline in various fields of the film industry.It is registered as a public charitable trust.

Courses:

– 1 year course in Film direction(Full time / part time / distance learning)

Admission:

The candidate should have a diploma after 12th or a PG diploma after graduation. 10 seats for students who finished 12th and 10 for graduate students are available and the selection process involves a personal interview. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

5. L V Prasad Film and TV Academy, Chennai

LV Prasad Film and TV academy was a part of the Prasad Group which was started by the renowned movie producer & director L.V.Prasad and it is currently headed by his son Ramesh Prasad. The students are provided the opportunity to direct many short films, advertisements, etc as a part of the curriculum.

Courses:

Two Year Post Graduate Diploma in Direction

Admission:

The candidate should be a graduate in any discipline from a recognized university. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

6. Whistling Woods International, Mumbai

WWI is owned by the popular Bollywood director Subash Ghai and was started in the year 2006. The school has got links with many international film schools which helps in getting opportunities across the globe.It has excellent infrastructure with all the latest equipment used in the film industry.

Courses:

– 3 Year Bachelors Filmmaking Program
– 2-Year Diploma in Filmmaking

Admission:

The candidate should have a Higher Secondary School or equivalent certificate. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

7. National Institute of Design, Ahemdabad

NIDA is an autonomous institution offering various courses in arts and design. Located in Ahmedabad it has several prestigious accolades to itself and impressive alumni to be proud of.

Courses:

– Bachelor of Design: Animation and Film Design (4-Years)
-Bachelor of Design: Film and Video Communication (4-Years)
– Admissions Start Date: Second Week of October

Website: http://www.nid.edu/

8. Digital Academy The Film School, Mumbai

DA Film School is one of the reputed film schools in Mumbai and it has collaborated with Mumbai University and the University of Westminster to provide graduate and PG courses in various fields.

Courses:

-PG Diploma course in Film and TV Direction (2 years)

Admission:

The candidate should be a graduate in any discipline from a recognized university and the selection process involves an entrance examination and a personal interview. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

9. Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida

AAFT was started in 1993 and is the first acting institute in south Asia to get ISO 9001:2000 certification. It has alumni not only from India but across the globe. It offers diplomas and master’s degrees in various categories.

Courses:

– 2 year MSc Cinema + PGD in Cinema ( Specialization in Direction )
– 3 year B.Sc. Cinema + Diploma in Cinema (Specialization in Direction)

Admission:

For a B.Sc degree, the candidate should have an HSC or equivalent certificate and for an M.Sc degree, the candidate should be a graduate in any discipline from a recognized university. The selection process involves an aptitude test and a personal interview. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

10. Zee Institute of Media Arts(ZIMA), Mumbai

ZIMA is owned by Zee network, one of India’s leading media companies, and is one the leading acting school in Mumbai. The opportunities for those studying in this school are more as the Zee network itself has many television channels and produces movies also.

Courses:

– Diploma / Bachelors / Masters in Film Making
– Hands on Film Making
– Weekend short term course in Direction

Admission:

The candidate should have a Higher Secondary School or equivalent certificate and the selection process involves a personal interview. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

11. Matrikas Film School, Delhi

Matrikas is a creative film institute for upcoming and new filmmakers. The lectures are given more as workshops instead of classroom sessions to help the students get hands-on practical aspects of filmmaking.

Courses:

– Diploma in Film making (1 year)

Admission:

The candidate should have a Higher Secondary School or equivalent certificate and the selection process involves a personal interview. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

12. Adyar Film Institute, Chennai

The Adyar Film Institute, officially known as M.G.R. Government Film and Television Training Institute, is one of the oldest known film institutes in India. It is run by Tamil Nadu State Government under the Department of Information and Public Relations. They offer 3-year diploma courses in Screenplay & Direction, Cinematography, Sound Recording, and Sound Engineering, Film Editing, and Film Processing all accredited by AICTE. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

Official website here.

13. Mumbai Film Academy, Mumbai

Mumbai Film Academy is a leading film school in India offering courses such as Cinematography & Lighting, Film & Video Editing, Film Making & Direction, Screenplay Writing, and Classical Singing. Admissions can be applied online via this formFees & Course Admission Details Here

Bonus Mentions

14. National Institute of Film and fine Arts, Kolkata

They have diploma and certificate courses in Film Direction, Acting, Camera, Screen Writing, etc. There is an admission procedure that involves writing tests and clearing the exams before admission. Check out the website for more details. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

Address: 35A Townshend Road, Bhawanipur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700025, India
Phone:+91 33 2455 6879

Official website here.

15. Access Atlantech Edutainment, Chennai

This institute is another reputed film school in Chennai (another one is the Adyar Film Institute mentioned above) that offers diploma, degree, and post-graduate programs in movie direction, acting, etc in partnership with reputed universities such as Dibrugarh University, Hindustan University, and the University of Bolton. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

Courses offered

– Advanced Diploma in Show Production (24 months)
– B.Sc. in Visual communication (Digital Film Making or Audio Engineering or Animation & VFX Specialization) (36 months)

Alumni of this school include popular actors and actresses including Silambarasan, Shruti Haasan, Sharada Ramanathan, G. V. Prakash Kumar, and Aparna Pillai.

More information in their official website here.

16. AJK, Mass Communication Research Centre, New Delhi

Established in 1982, Anwar Jamal Kidwai Mass Communication Research Center of New Delhi gives training in journalism, film, and video production at a post-graduate level.

Courses offered: M.A. in Mass Communication, M.A. in Convergent Journalism, M.A in Development Communication, M.A. in Visual Effects and Animation, P.G. Diploma in Broadcast Technology, P.G. Diploma in Still Photography, and P.G. Diploma in Acting. Shahrukh Khan, Kiran Rao are some of the popular alumni of this acting college. Fees & Course Admission Details Here

Check out their official website here.

Bonus Mention

17. Annapurna International School of Film and Media, Hyderabad

India’s first private, non-profit media school founded by the Akkineni family, is one of India’s leading film schools today. It offers courses in acting, directing, cinematography, editing, writing, and producing. More details are here on the official website.

If you have any questions, please email me or ask in the comments below.

216 thoughts on “Top 15 Colleges to Learn Movie Direction in India”

  1. I think you should update the list. There is a third National film institute after FTII and SRFTI. It’s KR Narayanan National Film Institute. It’s already making good reputation with its work. Students Winning many international festivals and all. I think you missed that out. I am wondering its from your native state only.

  2. Hi I am lakshmi pursuing my B.Sc. in Film Making from CMR University, I was looking to continue my higher studies in Film Making and this guide post has given me a detailed information about the different institutes providing programmes in film making. I would love to share my experience in CMR University. The CMR University is one of the best university to provide specific Film Making programmes for the passionate. The infrastructure is astonishing and the labs are equipped with latest equipments and it has a professional studio for students. I strongly recommend the interested students to pursue their B.Sc. Film making from CMR University. Please visit the CMR University website for more details.

  3. Hi i have finished my 12th grade and wants to study filmmaking. But my fear is that will i be able to experience a campus life in film institutes and will my classmates be of my age?? Plz do reply sir.. Ur opinion will mean a lot to me. If u can plz suggst one according to my taste

  4. am higher secondary pass out.i want to perseu career in film making.am from punajb. can you guide me some cheap and good institute in north.

  5. Why Institute of creative excellence-ICE is not mentioned in the list?They also had one of the best placement records in industry so far. Even they provide live exposure with best faculty. I am also currently pursuing film making from this institute.

  6. Namaste thanks. I m dance n drama artist. Doing lot of creative work since childhood. Qualified Bharat natyam dancer n trained theatre artist. Have all kind of Theatre n working with all faculties of performing arts now want to do film making specially direction. So wants to know the technical side of it. Thanks u have provided me information

  7. Please tell me that how can l start up with these courses after 12th .is there any qualification needed to get an admission in the given institutions

  8. Thanx Brother for giving me the Idea for the best Film Institutes of India.I am very glad to see the whole content as well as the accurate data.Thank You very much…..

  9. Dear Anisha , there is no any specific college for movie direction,the best college is ftii Pune but the selection process of ftii is so broad, the best thing is u can start your career as camera roll or script writer as well .. there are lot of college who wants money so beware …

  10. Go to film school only for camera, editing and sound. Best is to go directly at very young age and start working.

  11. hello Mani Sir,
    this is ALOK from hyderabad ..I”ve just done my graduation in Computer Science Engineering and very much interested in learning filmmaking specially in film direction field …..I’ve written many stories too …. so could you please suggest me a nice college

  12. Hey Mani,
    I have completed my B.tech degree but I am completely uninterested in working in corporate sector and I have immense passion for filmmaking. Also affording these institutes by quitting my job seems a lot of risk.

    Can you suggest if any of the institutes provide weekend courses(if yes, are they worthy?), or even if it is full time , can they guarantee placements?

    Please help out!

  13. i just wanted to know about CRAFT insitute is ?
    Im planning to join film making course of one year

  14. I would suggest you complete your degree Sampreeth. You need a safety net to fall back to, and need to be wise than be blindly after your dreams (which is a good thing actually). But I think you’re absolutely passionate about your interest so please pursue it while keeping safety nets handy (degree and a job if possible). You can always pursue arts and there is not stress. I’m sure you’ll be happy and successful one day. All the best!

  15. I suggest you try for a scholarship or see if you can get a loan for studying. Getting into one of the prestigious colleges are always better than compromising with a lesser known institute.

  16. i have a complete movie script i am also a screenwriter. so how to get producer for my script. some ideas give me. and i am also interested in direction so you tell me about for best institute in mumbai.

  17. hello Mani sir
    i m Mohit from Ghaziabad
    i have done graduation
    but i m interested film making
    but i have no information film direction and making . there are institute is very costly i have not apply
    basically i m belong to middle class family.but i m very serious direction course and film making
    sir please suggest me

  18. The India’s film field would achieve up a rise when, quality, a digital programme and the artificial intelligence are brought into use at films. The technology remembers and helps better than a human being. The high quality means new jobs and arrivals in India. The information moves around the world with digital form. The learning helps people.

  19. Hey MK!
    I have completed my 10+2 in hyderabad last march (2017). Now am doing my engineering ( in which I’m least interested) in hyderabad as well. I want to know if dropping out of the college now (after 2 semesters) and opting a bachelor’s degree in filmmaking is advisable or not, as in here, I’m getting better than better grades ( which doesn’t satisfy me at all, not a bit) and many actually suggested not to do that. Staying here is not helping me in anyway. I’m not able to concentrate on engineering (which I don’t want to anyway) and neither on my passion because of the external stress (Exams, Society etc,). I have already started taking online guidance for script writing and cinematography (and I very well know online classes are not just quite enough). I anyway want to get my post graduation in the same field from somewhere outside India (not the time to talk about PG now!) and then MPhil and then PhD, but for now, should i get into any film school leaving behind everything or should I be patient till i complete my BTech and then think of Passions?

    Will be expecting a reply. Will be really pleased if it’s not late
    🙂
    cheerss

  20. Bro thanks for the concrete information which I was needed and further I also want to know that MICA institute and NID of Ahmedabad and other Nationalised institute any are also providing the same courses in filmmaking or in screenplay writing.
    Please help me in this.

  21. Bro thanks for the concrete information which I was needed and further I also want to know that MICA institute and NID of Ahmedabad and other Nationalised institute any are also providing the same courses in filmmaking or in screenplay writing.
    Please help me in this.

  22. hi, i am shaon from bangladesh…is there any facilites to get admission in indian film institute ……?

  23. Hi Kartik, my name is Raghav, I just join AISFM for BFA in film making and cinematography, this is my first year in graduation course. My future aim is pursue a master degree from US or UK or any other good institute any where in the world. Can you tell me which institutes are best. And how do I get scholarship. What kind of preparation I have to do so I can prepare myself right from the beginning.

  24. Whichever Bachelor’s degree is fine with them. You just have to pick up whichever subject is easy to you, in my opinion.

  25. Hello Mani Sir, I want to become a cinematographer. But I don’t know which bachelor’s degree should I go for. I saw FTII’s website and it said, “Bachelor degree in any discipline” is required for post graduation. But I don’t have any idea about which degree will best suit. Any suggestions?

  26. Thanks first of all. Article was helpful. I have dropped out my b.tech in 7th semester when i came to know my dream career is film making. I also wanna know, Whistling woods mubai or NYFA mumbai, both are costly at the same level.
    which ones is worth it???

  27. hello nikhil sir, i have completed my bachelors and currently working in all india radio and interested in pursuing direction and screenplay writing. I’m not having any know how in direction but I’m in writing…. mostly poetry and articles. Some close ones suggested me of pursuing mass communication or journalism. and my brother wants me to pursue MBA, im not having any issues there too coz in MBA i will get time to explore and evolve myself. I’m confused between playing safe or chasing something I want to. please guide me and mani sir your words would be appreciated too.. i am eagerly waiting for reply of both of you. Thanks

  28. hi mani,
    Am interested in cinematography. am a 12th pass out and want to make a career in film making. I came to know about whistling woods its too costly…is it worth that much? any other suggestions.

  29. Hi,Sir I Am Studying In 12th and I Really Want To Be A Movie Director,and I Didn’t Participate In Any Entertainment Activities In My Life but i believe I Can Sir I Can……..And I Will.I Love Photography And Videography What Should I Do After My 12 boards exams, Should I Join Film School? sir please tell me some idea.

  30. Hi Jayprakash,

    Getting a degree is always good for many reasons. One, it gives you something to hold on to if things doesn’t work out. Like getting another job or something in parallel. Sort of like a safety net.

    Reg: bachelor or PG, it is totally up to you. It is great if you can get a PG but it is not required if you have the right talent. You might have seen many people who made it big in the industry without any PG or sometimes even a bachelors.

    I’ve mentioned the best institutes above, I don’t have a bias to any, please do your research and pick one that fits you.

    Reading books is always a good thing. It’ll expose you to new ideas and thoughts. 🙂

    All the best.

  31. Hi, Mani sir

    i’ve done 10+2..
    read your article and some comments& reply

    really, i have an interest in film making.

    1) which is better bachelor or post graduate in film making? why?
    if PG can i apply for short courses ?
    i’m from gujarat. which institute is good for me..moderate in prise
    and well education.

    you say: ” I would suggest you to take a degree. It’s always good”
    ,but why?

    2)book reading is my exclusive hobby
    pardon, is this use in film making?

  32. Hi Mani,

    My daughter will complete her grade 12 end of March…plz let me know the best film schools for undergraduates…. as she is interested in direction.

    Thank you.
    Marina.

  33. Hello mani
    I want to become a director
    i have completed my 12
    Would i join a degree programe in direction in Mumbai Film Acadmy or complete my Graduation

  34. Arjeet, I cannot comment on why one place is better than the other. More than anything else it depends on you and what your goals are. However if you are confused between two institutes, the best way to check is with their alumni. See what they are doing now, ask them how their support has been etc.

  35. HI Mani Sir
    My name is Arjeet from Delhi. I am doing 12th and its completed in 2017. I would like to join any film institute for cinematography course. My aim is graduation in cinematography and Post Graduate from FTII, Pune. I had explore so many institute in India. FTII, SRFTI and LV Prasad offering only Post graduation courses. So Whistling woods, AAFT and Annapurna International school are only options. But Whistling woods is very expenses, I can’t afford. Now pls help me to choose between AAFT and AISFM. I heard that AAFT is not good place to learn. Is it right? Which one is better – AAFT or AISFM. Also please suggest any other institute. One more thing, I would like to join who is affiliated with reputed university who’s degree will help to entrance for FTII.

    Thanks and regards

    Arjeet

  36. hi mani,
    i am yashpal i study in 12th in kota. i will be completing my 12th till march.. i want make carrier in film making .. i want join after 12th please suggest me some good institutes and do tell me should i go for it after 12th ?

  37. Hi MK,

    Thanks for taking your time and providing valuable inputs.
    You provided a great suggestion for me.

    But neither Annapurna nor Ramanaidu is offering any part time course in Hyderabad in Cinematography.
    And LV Prasad, chennai also not offering.

    Are you aware of any good film institutes which are offering Part time cinematography course in Hyderabad ?
    And is my basic assumption is correct, like entry point into film institute is slightly easier as Cinematographer than any other department like Direction etc with having normal creativity ?

    Thanks in advance

    Best Regards,
    Sandeep

  38. Hi Sandeep,

    Good to see that you’re following your passion. Quitting your job may not be a logical thing to do now as the uncertainty factor is high. What I would recommend for you is to test waters by taking a part time course. Get the hang of it before calling it quits. Then once you are ready to fire your shots, have studied the inside outs of the industry and how it all works, quit your job. But having it as a safety net is a good idea.

    LV Prasad is a great institute and so is Annapurna. I would suggest going to LV though, if given a choice.

    All the best and I hope that one day you come out good in flying colors.

    Cheers!
    MK

  39. Hi Mani,

    Its great that you are kind enough to provide this useful information which is helping us to find all the required information at one place. Keep it up as its great.

    I’m a 44 years, MNC executive from Hyderabad. I’m interested in Film making, for that, I feel, Cinematography is the right one to enter into the industry as risk less and creativity is also not so much required when compared to Direction area.
    I’m from Hyderabad. And I’m not sure, after working so long in MNCs, whether I can be successful or not in movie industry. So its testing waters and high risk for me.
    So thinking to do a part time Cinematography course along with continuing my job and after the course is completed then I can decide.

    I inquired at Annapurna film institute & RamaNaidu institute and visited the websites of Whistling woods, LV Prasad, Chennai.

    I have another plan of, totally quitting my job, join the course and try to become a Cinematographer after 2 yrs course is completed.

    Which film institute do you suggest ?
    My gut feeling is LV Prasad (Chennai) is good for Cinematography.
    Is Annapurna Film institute also fine ? so that I don’t have to move to chennai just for the course.
    Not considering Ramanaidu as its 3rd position in my list. And WWoods is very high in price.

    Your inputs/suggestions will definitely help me on this decision.

    Pl advise.

  40. Sir,i want to be full-time casting director for movies n tv….how suld I do it ?
    Where suld I learn it from?
    Wat skills do I need ?

  41. Is there any evening film direction schools in india ? in need to do both masters degree and film direction course at the same time ..I wont get permission from my parents to do full time course..bcz i’m still a student..plzz do reply

  42. Hi! I want to have guidance from you Nikhil Sablani in this respect. I want to persue my career in Film Direction& Acting. Is there any way to contact you personally?

  43. Hii,
    I am yet to complete my 12th class.I am interested in direction and screenplay writing.Which is best school or university to join in my interested stream in india?My budget is 5-10 lakhs.

  44. Hello sir iam shankar sahni iam very intresed for this programme film making in direction i want to know which is the best faculty member providing direction in instiute and one thing does not matter money but iwant to know repute d institue india please suggest me AAFT better or Whisting wood international instiute and xic mumbai instiute plaes sent me detali

  45. Hi sir,

    Which is the best film institute for film editing course.my qualification is +2 .karthik sir I am waiting for your answer please

  46. Hello Mani, I am from Bangladesh, interested to join a film school to learn editing at India. I have a budget of 3 and half lac Rupee including living cost. And I passed HSC(12) at the year 2010. I preferred a diploma course(duration 1 or 2 years). And I preferred a school at South India like Kerala or Chennai. Otherwise it can be at Kolkata or Delhi. I need help from you by that informations about these institute- 1. Cochin Medea school, Kerala. 2. National Institute of Film & Fine Arts, Kolkata. 3. CRAFT. 4. Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida… Mani please help me to get a decision, I am little confused which one will be appropriate and better for me. You can suggest me better one or select one from these. Mani again I am from Bangladesh & my budget is 3 and half lac Rupee including living cost. Sorry for this long one. Best Regards Mamur 🙂

  47. i live in bhusawal city and i wish to film direction learn anywhere parts of the world. As i belong to sc caste can i get scholarship from any institutions to help me providing admissions to me. Can i get free of cost admission to any colleges as they can take my scholarship. As there is no such institutions in my city

  48. Hi Simran,

    It is very important to realise your dream first. With graduation in science you can join creative world of movies in sound and cinematography or the technical world of movies like projection, sound equipment installation, broadcasting or equipment development. You need to search work in technical fields. For creative fields you need to go to any film school or start work as trainee. I can guide over phone. Regards Nikhil Sablania

  49. Hi Jatin,

    Good to know that you are from Delhi and what is common among us is that both of us have same passion of movie direction but the difference is between time and knowledge. When I decided to join film world around 21 years back in 1994 there was no one around me in Delhi to guide me for the path to movie world. There was no Internet than. I was in schools those days. Somehow I came to know about NAD but that was for drama only. Soon after my school I started working with a theater company. During my graduation I searched for film schools and gave entrance exams from SRFTI & FTII. I was confident and I got admission in SRFTI in 2003. Though the course was for three years but it took four years for me and even five years for others to complete the course. Though nowadays with advance technology and restricted syllabus courses are finished in time. Then I worked in films and TV in Mumbai for three years and then I had to come back to Delhi to look after my family,though I am again planning to move back to Mumbai next year. Now,you must be wonder that why I am writing all this to you? I am writing you to share this experience of 21 years, since when I first dreamed of joining films. You can see how much time is wasted in going to traditional film schools. They are of course good for learning and personality development but I think that the time they consumes is much more expensive. Also, as I have written in my previous comments that also the professionals in Mumbai lacks knowledge and skill which film school students get. So I prefer a mid way that is small time in film school, personal coaching and working as a trainee as assistant. And that even if you go to any film school you can not get the essence of learning without personal monitoring of a faculty. Watch some of my movies on YouTube like Checkmate;and Siski the Sigh. And if you want personal coaching in direction or screenplay writing from me in Delhi then you can also contact me for that. Wish you all the best. Regards – Nikhil Sablania

  50. Vishal,

    Please read my above comments as I have written that short course,personal coaching and working as an assistant are three steps to become director. Long courses consume time though they help otherwise in personality development. And as I have written in other comments that even if you go to film school for longer duration, it is the personal guidance, coaching and interaction with faculty that will teach you in real senses. I give personal coaching in screenplay writing and direction. I am alumni of SRFTI in these subjects. Regards. Nikhil Sablania Delhi

  51. Go to SRFTI Film production course. If you want to get personal coaching in screenplay writing or direction then call me. Read my other comments above.

  52. Hi Pratyush

    Good to see your passion. I was also so passionate about filmmaking in your age. Somehow after working for some years in films and TV in Mumbai I had to come back to Delhi for taking care of family members and had to restrict myself to corporate films, videos and teaching films. But it is gold that you are in Mumbai and much good that you want to learn about direction. As I have written in other comments that there are three ways to learn this craft, go to film school or get personal coaching or start working as a trainee. But the right way is to spend short time on personal coaching and do some short term course. After my four years in film school and seeing that how time is changing so fast with technology, I think going for a longer course consumes your precious time, though it is the traditional and good way for not just learning but personal growth. Also,during my working in professional years in Mumbai I also found that people who don’t go to film school or don’t get any personal coaching from film school graduate lacks a lot in craft. Perhaps this is the reason why our Hindi movies lack substance due to poor writing and direction but industry has not realized the importance of film school graduates in direction and screenplay writing. Also students after passing from film school become arrogant and their lack of experience in professional field gets them away from working. So I prefer little training from film and more personal coaching and much more personality and mind development.You can talk about this with me. I am an alumni of SRFTI in direction and screenplay writing. I also give personal coaching in these subjects. Regards Nikhil Sablania,Delhi

  53. Hi Nishikant,

    Good to know about your passion and you should know that you are in a place where you can be a screenplay writer. But my brother it is better to learn this craft. Again for this either you should go to film school which is time consuming but good way, or get personal coaching or start working as a trainee. But there are very few people to teach this craft perfectly and more than the craft of writing, you must also know a basic knowledge of other departments of filmmaking and mind of a writer. I prefer personal coaching in screenplay writing because even if you go to any big film school like mine (SRFTI) you need personal time, advices and interaction with faculty. You can talk about this with me. I am an alumni of SRFTI in direction and screenplay writing. I also give personal coaching in these subjects. Regards Nikhil Sablania,Delhi

  54. Hi Sarah,

    For set designing go directly to a professional and work with him/her as a trainee, even for free. That is the best way to begin career in art direction.
    You can talk about this with me. I am an alumni of SRFTI in direction and screenplay writing. I also give personal coaching in these subjects. Regards Nikhil Sablania,Delhi

  55. Hi Rahul,

    These are not subjects to be learned from distance learning. You should either go to film school,get personal coaching or work as trainee in films.I am alumni of SRFTI in direction and screenplay writing. I also give personal coaching in these subjects. Regards Nikhil Sablania,Delhi

  56. Hi AjAy,

    You can talk about this with me. I am alumni of SRFTI in direction and screenplay writing. I also give personal coaching in these subjects. Regards Nikhil Sablania,Delhi

  57. Hi Ajay,

    Congrats on completing +2. Whether joining a film school is a good decision is based on you. As you already know, it is a great career for those who are passionate about movies. All the big names in the industry made it big by going through a lot of struggle in their career. Not all of them came out through film schools but they are what they are today based on their talent and perseverance. So, if you have that kind of passion and perseverance, you can make it big any day, no doubt.

    The problem is when you think of a film career like a regular 9-5 job. It’s not. Our generation is lucky that there are lot of film schools unlike before, but the struggle to make it big in this industry is real.

    So if you are looking for a cosy, 9-5 regular job kind of a career, then I have my doubts (although it is a lot easier and comfortable than earlier years). But if you are willing to live the passion and struggle, this is a great career to have.

    All the best!

  58. Hi sir my name is Ajay…I just completed 10+2. I have too much interest in film direction…so I decided to join in film school…is this correct decision or not.? and plz tell me which is best film school in Hyderabad ..

    thank You

  59. Hey Nishikant, I would first of all contact all the institutes mentioned above (contact details above) from Mumbai and get their updated course details. Then I would compare them before making a decision.

  60. Hello Mani,

    I am an architecture student and would want to pursue set designing / production design. Could you please help me in knowing the best colleges in India for art direction and production design with fee structure and entrance procedures.

  61. hi,
    i’m from mumbai. i have a few original stories. i want to make films and tv shows based on these. how do i go about it? and what courses [part time] do you recommend so that i can make short films on my own? i can shell out about 2 lacs for fees.

  62. Sir u r absolutely correct but please guide me that which college I should choose for my course, which can provide better training and placement

  63. hi mk
    I’m Antriksh
    i am currently pursuing my graduation . since this is my last year so I’m planning towards my future. I want to learn cinematography but something different from bollywood shit
    hope you have heard about ‘THE NIGHT OF’ an hbo series i wnat to learn something like that
    are there any institute in india like that or shoul i plan to go abrod ?
    what institution should I prefer ?
    (and i am not a ameer bap ki oolad to bhai thoda dekh ke batana)

  64. why NID, ahmedabad (national institute of design) is not included in your list, i thinks it is also one of the best institute for film and design.

  65. Hey Mani
    I’m Rashmita. I want to be an editor. Can you please suggest me few film institute based in mumbai who had good placement records.

  66. IFTTI based out of mumbai affiliated under media council in India offers courses in film making. Specialization includes Script writing, Production, Live Direction, Editing and Sound Engineering. Admissions open for September batch now total 30 seats pan India. For more details send mail to apsec.org@gmail.com.

  67. hi mani
    iam a 15 year old boy from mumbai.
    and i want to become a film diretor..
    is there any course in this field that i can approach now or by next year???

  68. Hi sir,

    My name is Aranya. I have done my MBA in finance, but unfortunately, I have realized corporate world is not my calling. I want to do a course in film making where I am able to utilise my MBA knowledge.

    Request you to also note that I am 25 years of age. What are the chances of getting in to FTII? As an MBA qualified, is there any scope of studying in a reputed institute like FTII??

  69. Hiii sir, I m Vishal Pandey from Lucknow , sir I want to pursue my career in film direction and right now I m in class 12 and next year I want to take admission in film school so please can u suggest me some courses and film school which are actually providing good training not merely doing
    formalities ,,,I have thought about ZIMA Mumbai and AAFT noida , is my choice correct , sir I m really very confused please help me ….

  70. Hey, I reside in Delhi, i’m extremely passionate in films. I want to join a filmmaking course but cannot decide which one to choose. My budget is around 2 lakhs. I have researched about some institutes like AAFT, RK Films and Media Academy, Matrikas & CRAFT. I would be obliged if you can tell which one is the best and why?

  71. Simran, Ask yourself what you want to do. What is that one thing that you’d like to do again and again in life, that will make you happy despite being repetitive. That is your thing!

  72. Hey! I’m just done with my graduation. I’m a B.Sc Electronic Media student. I’m not able to figure out what to go with. Please help me out.
    Thanks 🙂

  73. hii my name is jalpesh joshi i am from gujarat ahmedabad i have completed b.comm and i have to joint cinematography and film making as career pls sir help me ..which colleges are good for me from pune, mumbai & cheenai.

  74. i ve completed my pg in pharma recently.But im interested in this feild. Whats the least possible time to complete a useful course.I am much interested in direction and screen play writting. I dint find any channels to enter this feild till now so i m late to this.so couldd you please suggest me the good option.Thank you.

  75. hi I am from delhi i completed my 12th non-med from delhi this year i wanna do full graduation programme from a filmaking school lack of money though what should i do

  76. Hello sir…m from lucknow and hv completed my graduation but my atrraction towrads learning film direction course has alwys been on my mind since my childhood….and I wanna get admission in a best film school…plz help me to choose one..mentioned above..and as I belong to middle class family so how I could manage for money to pursue that course…

  77. After completing and releasing a full length Hindi feature film with the students of Mumbai Film Academy, I believe it to be one of the best film Institutes in India in training students professionally. Mumbai is the hub of Film & TV Industry and the location of MFA is in the prime Andheri West area.

  78. Sir if I do a film making course from whistling woods then after completion does it give a placement and second thing is which talent is require for being a good film director.

  79. is flash frames academy bangalore good for learning cinematography?
    does it have good facilities and equipments?

  80. Shri, I would recommend to get a degree or diploma first. You can always pursue your dream afterwards. It should not stop you from chasing your dreams.

  81. Most colleges prefer graduates, but some of them might waive it off. I recommend completing a degree course before pursuing your passion. You will need it later in the career.

  82. Vikas, CRAFT Delhi offers part time course. But you might want to check with Annapurna International School Of Film And Media, Hyderabad as well, as it it close to your place.

  83. Kunal, if you chose to go to a reputed school like Whistlingwoods, it will cost in lakhs. For this, you could either get a personal or student loan from banks. But there are many cheaper options to learn acting as well. Please check the details mentioned in the post.

  84. Sir, as I am from , I am a fresher I have jst completed my 12th n my dream is to become an actor bt I got admission in 3 yr grad. (PCM) Bsc programme as I’m from middle class background.Sir suggest me some option thru which I cn collect funds n get admission in good film school…Waiting fr ur rply sir..Ty so much sir.

  85. Hi Karthik ,
    Am a full time MNC executive from Pharma in Hyderabad and interested in pursuing a course in movie direction but cannot afford to attend full time. Which one do u suggest ?

  86. sir
    I will complete 12 th.my dream is complete a diploma in filmmaking means direction of film ..so please inform me diploma duration and fees and about the college

  87. Is it possible to go for an Art Direction course for films after completing BA Mass communication? If yes, which are some of the good colleges?

  88. Sir i am from nagpur. I want to become filmmaker. After complete 10th. I want to took admission 12th and then took admission in film school but my father was not agree for this reason my father forceful took admission in polytechnic diploma in civil engineering be cause he want i am become a civl engineering but my intrest is fully in film making so now i need your help sir because my polytechnic diploma is appeared means final year some subjects are back and i tried to pass but i cant after that i dropped my diploma and do a job in construction company as site engineer but my i need to join film school for learning filmmaking course do please help me sir what should i do sir please help me my email is shri.canvas1@gmail.com

  89. I have just completed my 12th exams but unfortunately i have failed and getting prepared to write preparatories.. Am i capable to join in any film school?..if yes, then which one could be the best for me?

  90. No. Not even 2 years is enough to learn film making. From what I hear from the really passionate film makers, it’s a never ending journey. But you can cover a lot of ground in those 2 years.

  91. Whistling Woods, Digital Academy, ZEE all are in Mumbai. You are lucky to be there in Mumbai, unlike many other cities in India, Mumbai has a lot of film schools. All the best.

  92. Each college has a different fee structure Navin, if you want I can help getting one colleges. The other way is to contact them and get the details. Some of these colleges frequently change fee structure so you will have to contact them anyways.

  93. Not entirely sure of placements as it depends on various factors. I can put you in touch with some folks who are studying there. That’s the best way to find out.

  94. bro i want to study direction which clg will be best for that and the fees also should be resanable

  95. which insititute in india give post graduation in film making ?
    as the above mention film schools only 16th one give according to my knowledge
    what are your suggestions?

  96. Hello sir,
    I am a Physics teacher in Govt. School in Haryana. I want to do a course of “Film Direction” through Distance education. Can U help me.

  97. Bro! Is Annapurna Film Institute good? Does it have good placements after the bachelors?

  98. sir can u please send me the fee structure of the following film schools &the syllabus for enterence test

  99. I want to do cinematography which is the best college please suggest me
    I am from Mumbai
    U can suggest me the best not only from mumbai but from any where.

  100. Hiii my name is prashant misal and I am interesting in film direction. so plss suggest me course in this field. I belong to s.c category can i get low fee structure for the course

  101. Hi, Mani Karthik
    This is Nilanjan from Kolkata. Digital Academy, Mumbai offers 8 months course in Film and TV Direction. Do you think 8 months is enough to learn Film Making?

  102. Varun, Annapurna International School Of Film And Media, Hyderabad might be a good one for you as it is near to you. Please check the website for fee details.

  103. Hi Arjun,

    6 Months is a very short time to learn. But provided you are passionate and already know the basics, a crash course might be good for you. Movies and direction is an art and don’t expect to learn everything in 6 months. But if you have the talent and confidence go for it! Check out courses as mentioned in the article. All the best.

  104. Hello Mani karthik sir. I want to do Post graduate course of duration one year in Event management and PR , can you provide me with the list of some best institutes/colleges/schools/university in India, on basis of excellent training and placement. place and fees is no issue. plz reply soon..

  105. Hello Mr. Mani karthik, nice to meet you. This is Arjun, currently working as a mechanical engineer at one of the reputed MNC company, Because of recession I lost my job, I would like to enter into my dream field, am very much interested in film direction, i have tried to direct few short films as well, but because of my busy work schedule I unable to completely concentrate on it,
    I would like to join in any film institute for short term course (max. 6 months), in order to build my confidence level and learn the real technical aspects behind the film direction. Can you please suggest any film institute good for direction and screenwriting short term courses.

    Maximum I can manager my family without job for 6 months with my earnings, with in this period, I would like to gain some knowledge and achieve something on my interesting field.

  106. hi..i will complete my graduation in 2017 mid and i am intrested in film direction course.can you please suggest me institute which will provide me with great experience and placement as well.

  107. I am from bengaluru, I wanna complete my bachelor degree in visual & communication then take up direction course in a reputed college.So can you please suggest me with one of the best colleges in our country?

  108. Hi Sai, I would suggest you complete your studies before pursuing the director course. Most of the film schools require completion of school/degree but there are exceptions. However, personally I think you should finish school.

  109. hello Sir I want to b a film director is there any course after 10th

    right now I am studying in poly ME branch but unable to complete it properly so plz could u suggest me for the right option

    waiting for Ur reply eagerly

  110. hi,mani bhai,i have just passed my 12th,and i want to purse my bachlers in editing.so can u suggest me any good colleges.

  111. Hii Mani. I want to do Post graduate course of duration one year in Event management and PR , can you provide me with the list of some best institutes/colleges/schools/university in India, on basis of excellent training and placement. place and fees is no issue.

  112. Hi Mani Karthik
    I’m from andhra pradesh. It takes me 2 more months from now to complete my graduation. Can you suggest a Film School for me and what can be the fee structure?
    To my knowledge admissions are opened already for 2016 in many of the film schools, by the time i complete my graduation if the admissions are closed, what should be my next step?

    And let me also know the best film school to learn Film Direction, as i’m very much interested in it.

    please let me know….

  113. It will always be good to graduate first, as a basic degree is preferred in most colleges. I would also suggest a graduation degree even otherwise. All the best Adarsh.

  114. Depends on where you are applying. Check the eligibility criteria of whichever institute you are planning to join. Some require bachelor’s degree, some don’t. All the best.

  115. Sir I want to be a film director but I am Only 12th pass now so should I go for it now or else it would be better to have a graduation degree???

  116. Hi there! My name is Ashish. M from north karntaka. I have completed my diploma. M more towards DOP. Is there any colleges who offers DOP course for diploma based student.

  117. Hello! sir i m jitendra prasad. ihave completed diploma of mech.engg.in present time, i doing graduate of engg.but i intrests film direction.want to do 1 year course so 1 year course for best career in futuer and best film direction institute in delhi, plz tell me thank you!

  118. the people who placed the image with name are they mediocre or customer service for the institute
    none of institute website when we google it not even flooded with key words and direct to me indirect websites so for i wasted several hrs to find out which is best institute as filmin india how many govt institute top schools and private schools govt school availablity of seats and price and private schools and price and product

    nothing so much irk of cing not segmented as key

  119. Manish, As far as I know FTII, Pune and Adyar Film Institute Chennai has Government affiliations. It is better to learn about fee structure from the respective colleges after contacting them as most of them are dynamic.

  120. Hi Nagaraju,

    Annapurna International School Of Film And Media is nearest to you. I’m not sure about the money part though. Please contact them to find out.

  121. hi karthik bhaiya. i have just gave my 12th exams. i want to become screenwiter director. i am confused, should i join a college of film making right now? or it will be better to have a graduation in law first.i am not sure about my writing skills but i like it.

  122. hi.mani karthik
    im nagaraju from telangana.
    i want to become film director.
    but i dont have much money.
    which college is good for me.
    please must replay

  123. Hi mani.. I want to Start my blog on recycling of old clothes like sarees,tees,kurtis and also stones of old sandals,Old dresses designing material etc.. I need ur help bcoz I dnt hv much knowledge abt blogging.. Can u plz help?

  124. I’m not entirely sure about it. You might want to check up with whichever college you are interested in to see if they have age limits. My inclination is to believe that there is no age limit, but I could be wrong.

  125. They have Film and Visual Communication from National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad that’s no where in your list. I wonder why.

  126. Any age limit for course of Direction in these Institutes.
    I am interested to do course in 42 yrs of age… Is it possible?

  127. hey! this is me Arjul Islam Borah .I’m from Assam and I’ve completed my 12th boards. I want to pursue my degree in Film making and direction,from Mumbai. which institute will b the best for me, if I want to become a part of Bollywood Industry?

  128. hey, I want to filmmaking dipoloma in india and i want move to UK for higer studie.So what is the best place to doing filmmaking course in india?

  129. According to fee structure CRAFT is very good as compared to others.. Can anybody tell me about CRAFT’s education and how much opportunities they provide to freshers.. Is it worth of money for Film Direction course???

  130. hi.
    im nagaraju.
    im want to become good director..
    but i dont have much money….
    pls tell which college is better for me….
    and pls tell the opporchuntys of that college…

  131. Comment
    Hi
    i m Nishant vinipra .
    i live in patna(Bihar).
    i m to much interested to be
    film maker & direction area.now i m a student of graduction(2nd)year.
    what would be the best institute in india india.

    by-VINIPRA

  132. Hi.I am avinaba mukherjee .I live in Kolkata. I am too much interested to be a film maker. Now I am a student of graduation (2nd) . what would be the best institutions in Kolkata ?/

  133. How do you know of AAFT? Please tell me. Actually I heard many negative comments for that institute from the students of AAFT onwards. So I am asking. Even I too wants to pursue Bsc in film making in 2016.So if you have something for me please let me know.

  134. i m vivek. i want to know the best and affordabe film directon institute in delhi. i dont have much money to pay. so tell me the good one, i m post graduate.

  135. I am Brijesh Singh I want to be director .I comlited graduation and diploma engineering in electrical . I don job two years in engineering field now I leaved job .I want to be moving director . I want to not joine college please consult me what I should do my age is 26…

  136. Mumbai Film Academy is among the top Film schools of the world training students since 2003 in Film Making & Direction, Cinematography, Editing, Scriptwriting and Sound Recording.

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