Itâs been nearly two years since Harold Ramis passed away, leaving behind a cinematic legacy that includes Groundhog Day, Caddyshack, National Lampoonâs Vacation, and the first two Ghostbusters movies. As a writer, director, and a performer, Ramis had a unique comedic touch that was felt in all of his projects. Now, The Second City has announced plans to honor Ramisâ contributions to film.
Beginning in September, Second City will open The Harold Ramis Film School in Chicago, which is described as the first film school to focus on comedic content. Ramis was a Second City veteran, and the new school has been endorsed by his widow, Erica Mann Ramis.
âHarold Ramis was the quintessential Second City writer/performer â intelligent, funny and devoted to the spirit of ensemble,â said Second City CEO Andrew Alexander in a statement. âHis unselfish and generous spirit dominated the many wonderful films that he directed and wrote. I am thrilled by this opportunity to instill Haroldâs philosophy of successful storytelling in film in the next generation of artists.â
The Harold Ramis Film School will feature yearlong programs with a traditional education in film theory, cinema history, and production classes in addition to comedy training by Second City instructors. Students will also be tasked with creating screenplays, sitcom pilots, one-hour pilots, or short films as their thesis projects.
Second City is currently accepting applications for The Harold Ramis Film School at this link. An open house about the Harold Ramis Film School will be held at The Second City Training Center in Chicago on March 16.
Prospective film students, would you be interested in applying for the Harold Ramis Film School? Cross the streams and let us know in the comment section below!
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Image:Â Columbia Pictures