have an account?【sign in】London Film School vs. National Film and Television School (NFTS): A Comparison of Two Top UK Film Schools
bashirauthorThe London Film School (LFS) and the National Film and Television School (NFTS) are two of the top film schools in the United Kingdom. Both institutions offer highly competitive and acclaimed film programs that have produced some of the industry's most successful and acclaimed filmmakers. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two schools, exploring their curriculum, facilities, alumni, and reputation.
Curriculum
The LFS offers a one-year, full-time diploma program in film directing, producing, and editing. The curriculum is focused on the creative aspects of filmmaking, with a strong emphasis on narrative structure, visual storytelling, and the development of a personal voice. The school also offers short course and workshops to enhance students' skills and knowledge.
By contrast, the NFTS is a three-year degree program, with options in directing, producing, editing, screenwriting, and specializations in various areas such as animation, documentary, and visual effects. The curriculum at NFTS is more comprehensive, covering all aspects of filmmaking from script to screen. The school also offers a range of short courses and masterclasses to provide additional training and guidance.
Facilities
Both the LFS and the NFTS have state-of-the-art facilities that include studio spaces, post-production suites, and a full range of equipment for student use. However, the facilities at NFTS are significantly larger and more advanced, with dedicated spaces for animation, visual effects, and game design. The school also has a library with a large collection of books, journals, and DVDs related to the film industry.
Alumni
Both the LFS and the NFTS have a long history of producing successful and acclaimed filmmakers. Some notable alumni of the LFS include Richard Linklater (Slacker, Before Sunrise, Before Sunset), Mike Leigh (Seconds of Pleasure, Vera Drake, Topsy-Turvy), and Peter Strickland (The Duke of Burgundy, Berberian Syndrome, Pillowbook).
The NFTS alumni list is even more impressive, with names such as Chris Newman (The Hobbit, King Kong, The Lord of the Rings), Richard Curtis (Love Actually, The Ultimatum, Notting Hill), and Chris Weitz (The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, About a Boy). Both schools have a strong international presence, with alumni working in over 40 countries around the world.
Reputation
The London Film School has a reputation for being a creative and independent film school, with a focus on the development of a personal voice and a strong emphasis on narrative structure and visual storytelling. The school has a loyal following of students and faculty, who value its small-scale and intimate atmosphere.
By contrast, the NFTS is widely recognized as one of the top film schools in the world, with a reputation for providing a comprehensive and industry-relevant education. The school has a strong relationship with the British film industry and a diverse alumni base, with graduates working in various aspects of the film industry, including directing, producing, editing, screenwriting, and visual effects.
In conclusion, the London Film School and the National Film and Television School offer two very different yet equally impressive film programs. Both schools have a long history of producing successful and acclaimed filmmakers, with a focus on providing a comprehensive and industry-relevant education. While the LFS may be more focused on the development of a personal voice and a strong emphasis on narrative structure and visual storytelling, the NFTS offers a more comprehensive curriculum, covering all aspects of filmmaking from script to screen. Ultimately, the choice between these two top UK film schools comes down to personal preference and the specific areas of interest in which you wish to focus your film education.