A look back at our iconic masterclasses

Over the years, we’ve had a wide range of industry professionals join us at MetFilm School – from Hollywood icons to rising British talent – and our students have been inspired by some of the industry’s finest. Through our masterclasses, students hear directly from world-class actors, directors, and storytellers, all offering candid insights into the craft, discipline, and creative spark that drives their careers.

We’re looking back at some of the unforgettable masterclasses that have shaped our students’ journeys and left a lasting impact across our campuses.

Bryan Cranston

MetFilm School had the honour of hosting the amazing Bryan Cranston for an inspiring masterclass back in 2018. The Breaking Bad star shared stories from his early days, his approach to choosing roles, and the importance of perseverance and luck in an unpredictable industry. 

Speaking candidly to students, Cranston’s warmth, wit, and generosity made for an unforgettable session that left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.

Lesley Manville

In June, the incredible Lesley Manville visited our Ealing campus to deliver a masterclass brimming with insight, warmth, and unforgettable advice. From sharing stories of her own career to offering practical tips on craft and performance, Lesley left our students inspired and motivated. A huge thank you to her for being so generous with her time and expertise – it’s an experience our students likely won’t forget.

Mike Newell

Legendary director Mike Newell visited us recently and delivered a stellar masterclass packed with insight, humour, and hard-earned wisdom. From his early days in amateur theatre to directing iconic films like Four Weddings and a Funeral and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Mike shared stories, advice, and practical tips that left our students inspired and full of ideas. We were honoured to share the room with such an incredible filmmaker.

Eben Bolter

There was a real buzz around campus when we welcomed cinematographer Eben Bolter, the creative eye behind HBO’s The Last of Us. With more than a decade of experience across film and television, including Night Teeth and Avenue 5, Eben discussed the visual language of storytelling, on-set collaboration, and how lighting and camera movement shape emotion. His generosity and enthusiasm left students inspired to explore their own cinematographic styles.

Vicky McClure

BAFTA-winning actor Vicky McClure, celebrated for her breakout role as Lol in This Is England ’86 and her starring turns in Line of Duty and Broadchurch, joined us for an exclusive masterclass.

She discussed collaboration, career longevity, and the creative process behind projects, including Nottingham-based crime thriller Redemption.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Our students had the privilege of joining a conversation with acclaimed actor, writer, and director Chiwetel Ejiofor. With a career spanning over two decades, including 12 Years a Slave, Children of Men, and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Ejiofor reflected on his journey through stage and screen. 

He also shared insights into Rob Peace, a deeply personal film he wrote, directed, and starred in, exploring resilience, brilliance, and the human spirit.

Helen Serafinowicz

BAFTA-winning writer and co-creator of Motherland, Helen Serafinowicz joined us for a candid conversation with MetFilm School lecturer Sheridan Humphreys. Known for her sharp wit and authentic character writing, Helen spoke about developing memorable ensembles, the art of co-writing for television, and the evolving relationship between writers and actors. The session offered students a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind one of Britain’s most beloved comedies.

Adjani Salmon

BAFTA-winning writer, director, and MetFilm School MA Directing graduate Adjani Salmon returned to MetFilm School to share his journey creating Dreaming Whilst Black. 

In a masterclass full of practical advice and heartfelt reflection, Adjani spoke about pitching projects, sustaining creative momentum, and the emotional resilience required to turn ideas into reality. His talk reminded students to stay connected to their creative essence and the passion that drew them to filmmaking in the first place.

Ashley Walters

We were delighted to welcome award-winning actor, director, producer, and rapper Ashley Walters for an in-person masterclass. He is known for his standout roles in Top Boy, Bulletproof, Speed Racer, and most recently Adolescence, which has just earned him a Golden Globe nomination. He spoke openly about his journey from music to screen, the lessons he learned along the way, and how he continues to evolve as a creative.

He offered students valuable advice on breaking into the industry, spoke about his upcoming projects, and left everyone with an unforgettable lesson on professionalism (and punctuality!).

Mark Mylod

Our students were treated to a masterclass with Emmy Award-winning director and executive producer Mark Mylod, whose credits include Succession, Game of Thrones, The Royle Family, Entourage, and The Last of Us. 

Mark shared candid insights into his creative process, the challenges of directing large-scale productions, and the importance of collaboration. His reflections on his long career in both British and US television offered students a rare perspective on storytelling at the highest level.

Geoffrey Rush and Stephen Hopkins

Two-time Emmy and Oscar winner Geoffrey Rush, known for The King’s Speech, Shakespeare in Love, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Shine, visited our campus alongside long-time collaborator and Emmy-winning director Stephen Hopkins. 

The pair took a break from their collaboration, a MetFilm Production biopic about Oliver! creator Lionel Bart, to share their experiences in the industry. Their conversation covered the evolution of screen performance, their creative partnership, and the enduring magic of storytelling.

Ready to learn from the industry’s best and bring your stories to life?

Apply by 14 January 2026 to secure your place at MetFilm School, where masterclasses, hands-on guidance, and first-hand industry knowledge will give you the tools and connections to turn your creative vision into reality.