John H. Foote is the director of the Toronto Film School and a film critic-historian.
Name: John H. Foote
Years of experience: 20
Occupation: Director Toronto Film School, and a film critic-historian(www.torontofilmschool.ca)
Q: How did you get started in your industry?
A: I had directed plays for several years but my passion was always film. I was invited to create a TV show for the Rogers Network entitled Reel To Real, which I co-hosted and co-produced for seven years.
When I left the show, I got into print criticism and have been doing that ever since, writing for the Metroland syndicate, Toronto Life and Fashion, and www.
incontention.com.
Q: Describe the ideal qualities a person should have to succeed in your industry?
A: Passion, intelligence and an absolute love for the art of filmmaking. Breathe it, sleep it, eat it, and never stop thinking about it.
Q: What kind of background, either educational or other, best suits someone starting out in your industry?
A: Certainly, at the very least, a high school education helps and perhaps a year or two of college or university. I think age and maturity means a great deal, thus someone in their early 20s is well-suited for what we do. The Toronto Film School is difficult work. We try and challenge the students by replicating the working world. Again, an obsession with the art form they wish to study is essential.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: Two things. First of all the constant learning from the films I see, the students I meet and the mentors I work with, and second, seeing the artistic growth of the students and the Canadian cinema.
Q: What are the most challenging aspects of your industry?
A: Funding and distribution of films … period.
Q: For newcomers to the industry, what tips would you offer them on getting started in their career?Â
A: Work hard, never give up, and recognize your dream may evolve. It may not happen the way you had planned, but it will happen.
Q: What kind of local associations/organizations/volunteer activities would you recommend for people just starting out?
A: Get familiar with where the shoots are and show up offering your help — they may shoo you away or allow you in to work.
I did this years ago on a Bruce Dern film shooting in Toronto called Middle Age Crazy — I watched, offered to help and worked several days on the film for free learning, learning and learning, and I got to watch Bruce Dern, one of the great method actors, at work.
Never turn down the chance to work on a film because it does not pay — the payment is in the experience and what you will learn.
