The Director's Cut attempts to give film majors, and those interested in pursuing a career in film, insight into what it takes to become an accomplished director. In that very same vein, I was very interested by a recent post at Brazen Careerist by a producer named Jamie Schutz.

I'm not particularly familiar with any of Schutz's work (I mean, of course I've heard of Survivor, but I've never seen an episode and I wouldn't immediatedly identify it as Schutz's work), but I was impressed with his passion and the career path he outlines in his post. Schutz's piece gives an excellent Point-A to Point-B to Point-F description of how, exactly, to get the career you want in the film industry.

It's certainly worth reading the whole thing, but Schutz leaves us with his best advice and words of wisdom that any film student should take to heart:

First, you don’t have to go to film school or major in film or have a cousin in the business. Remember, I couldn’t even get out of freshman year Economics! Second, you don’t have to have a lot of money. Third, you don’t have to move to Los Angeles. Trust me, the traffic is horrible there!

Here’s what you do have to do.

Read as many books and trade magazines as you can get your hands on about the business. Think of the film and television business as a new language that you are learning.

Take a course from your local college, university, or continuing education schools. It will help you become more fluent and you will meet peers that share the same passion.

Intern for a production company, studio, network, or any company, that needs a helping hand. Even if it’s one day a week, you’ll receive hands on training and meet all kinds of smart people.

Join a club or professional organization. Many of the trade unions and guilds have programs designed especially for aspiring individuals! If you live in an area that doesn’t have representation, join a local club.

Practice by yourself. Are you a writer? Write. Are you a director? Direct. Are you a producer? Produce. The resources are there. Grab a pen or a camera and just do it.

Practice with a team. The best part about this business is that you get to collaborate with smart, creative individuals. Take advantage of the power of teamwork.

Finally, be passionate and have a great attitude. People like to work alongside of others that they respect creatively and that they can tolerate!