A wonderful way for students to learn things, aside from books, is from experience. And what better way to learn than bringing in a person with a very experienced background in screenwriting, filiming, directing, acting and producing? That's exactly what James Franco did in school.
James Franco brought in a special guest in one of his film classes. He brought in Wes Anderson. Anderson is known for his Oscar nominated work in The Grand Budapest Hotel. But he didn't come in person. He Skyped into the film class with a retro phone because he was currently in Paris. Even though they were a thousand miles apart, the students of Franco's graduate UCLA film class sure learned a thing or two.
James Franco is not only a famous actor, published author, producer and director, he is also an educator in UCLA. He is currently a lecturer and teacher for film classes at the UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) School of Theater, Film and Television since 2012.
Bringing in Anderson gives the students a new perspective in the use of visual styles, themes and stories, and soundtracks when it comes to his directing techniques.
Although Franco has not been in any of Anderson's movies and films, who knows? It may not be far too off in the future. Anderson's first feature was in Bottle Rocket back in 1996 and was co-written with Owen Wilson. He is most likely remembered as the director, producer, writer and actor (as a Tennis Match coordinator) for The Royal Tenenbaums in 2001 which was also co-written with Owen Wilson.
Anderson's call from Paris happened a day after the coordinated terrorist attacks in the city.
In response to the recent Paris attack, Franco posted on his Instagram account (@JamesFrancoTV) "#WESANDERSON visited us from PARIS via Skype at our grad film class at #UCLA. A wonderful Saturday morning amidst all the sadness. Thank you, WES!", as reported by EW.
