Overview
Do you ever rewatch a scene over and over just to figure out how it was filmed? Has a movie or TV show ever resonated so deeply that it made you want to create something that moves people too? If this sounds like you, VCUarts Cinema may be a great fit for you.
Applying to a film program can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never picked up a camera or don’t have a film portfolio yet. That’s okay! Filmmaking at VCUarts Cinema is a collaborative practice at its core. You’ll spend your time working with teammates, sharing ideas, dividing responsibilities, and learning the ropes together.
When reviewing applications, we’re looking for collaborators who are committed, open to feedback, inclusive, and ready to be challenged. You do not need prior filmmaking experience to apply. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to take your passion further, there’s a place for you here.
Cinema Essay
A great heist film depends on a dynamic ensemble made up of people who each contribute something unique to the team, both technically and emotionally. In 300–600 words, tell us what role you’d play in ours. What do you bring to the table as a teammate and collaborator?
This essay should be written entirely without AI assistance. Be as specific and honest as you can. We want to get to know your authentic self through your writing, including how you respond when things don’t go according to plan.
Cinema Portfolio
1-5 Minute Moving Image Piece (required)
Submit one moving image piece made by you. This can be anything from a simple video shot on your phone to a more fully developed and edited short film. Any level of filmmaking experience is welcome. The piece must be primarily your own work and vision. If collaborators assisted, explain the roles clearly in the description box.
What makes a strong submission?
We are most excited by work that feels thoughtful, personal, and reflective of who you are. Your submission does not need to be polished or made with professional equipment. We want to see how you use the tools available to you to create a world, establish a tone, tell a story, observe the world closely, or communicate ideas through images and sound.
We encourage you to lean toward narrative, observational, poetic, multimedia, or experimental work. In general, submissions focused mainly on social-media-style content, brand promotion, advertising, or gameplay edits are less likely to represent you clearly as a narrative filmmaker.
The 1-5 Minute Moving Image Piece is the only required portfolio element. In addition, you may submit any combination of the following optional pieces to help us get a fuller picture of who you are as a storyteller:
Pitch Video (optional)
In 3 minutes or less, film a video of yourself pitching an idea for a movie you’d like to make one day. Clearly articulate the genre, tone, and central story of your movie. Tell us why you’re excited about this story.
Creative Portfolio (optional)
Submit a portfolio of your creative work. You may include up to 5 additional pieces beyond the required Moving Image Piece. You’re welcome to include a mix of mediums: short films, photography, painting, music, writing, etc.
If including video or music, keep the total combined length of additional submissions under 5 minutes. If submitting work made in collaboration with others, please specify how you contributed to the project in the description box. If submitting writing, please do not exceed 5 pages.
Transfer applicants are required to meet with advisor Martha Harper (harperma@vcu.edu) for an informational advising session. This meeting will help you understand the unique structure of the Cinema program, how your existing credits may transfer, and your potential graduation timeline.