British film expert leaves red carpet for Vietnam to nurture next generation of filmmakers

Dr. Paul's career spans multiple genres, blending art and education. Since creating his first student films in 1982, he has worked across film, television, and media production, contributing to major feature films, TV dramas, historical documentaries, award-winning short films, and commercials. He has participated in renowned international film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Rotterdam and maintains a strong network within the global film industry.

Dr. Paul D.J. Moody guiding students at British University Vietnam. Photo courtesy of BUV

Beyond filmmaking, Dr. Moody is dedicated to education. He has held senior roles at prestigious institutions worldwide, including the U.K.'s National Film and Television School, Goldsmiths University of London, the Royal College of Art, London College of Communication, and the London Film School. He has also taught at institutions like the Polish National Film, Television, and Theatre School, La Fémis in Paris, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, and Ramon Llull University in Barcelona.

At the U.K.'s National Film and Television School, he was instrumental in the school's development into one of the world's leading institutions for cinematic talent.

Dr. Moody has chosen to relocate from the U.K. to Vietnam, where the film industry is still evolving on the global stage. He notes that the country offers significant potential and opportunities for growth.

"I deeply admire Vietnam and its people. The Vietnamese film industry has immense growth potential. The young, talented workforce has potential to expand rapidly each year," he said.

Teaching 'know how' and 'know why'

Bringing decades of experience in film and education, Dr. Paul joined British University Vietnam (BUV) as Head of the School of Communications and Creative Industries (SOCCI) in 2024. He has been instrumental in shaping the school's international outlook.

Under his leadership, BUV's programs have been updated to ensure they align with industry needs and remain innovative.

Dr. Paul D.J. Moody took on the role of Head of the School of Communications & Creative Industries at BUV in 2024. Photo courtesy of BUV

The Contemporary Creative Practice program has been enhanced to include animation, a field Dr. Moody sees as having substantial growth potential in Vietnam. Additionally, he and his colleagues developed BUV's new Film and Media Production program, drawing inspiration from Arts University Bournemouth, a leading U.K. arts institution. Every aspect of the internationally accredited programs has been carefully researched and tailored to meet Vietnam's market needs and future goals.

At BUV, the emphasis is not just on traditional lectures, but also on interactive learning through real-world scenarios and case studies. Lecturers facilitate critical thinking, empowering students to develop practical skills and confidence.

Dr. Paul D.J. Moody during class at British University Vietnam. Photo courtesy of BUV

Dr. Moody has also focused on expanding BUV's faculty with qualified academics who hold international degrees. Lecturers bring practical experience from film sets and the creative industries in the U.K., Vietnam, the US, Australia, Finland, and other countries directly into the classroom.

Student centred education

Dr. Paul's philosophy is humanity, or, as he puts it, "the narratives and relationships that we create." He believes that truly valuable work lies in telling real stories about real people. He emphasizes the importance of understanding human relationships and historical contexts in filmmaking, from storytelling and sound design to team collaboration. His aim is to balance artistic integrity with commercial viability, a principle that extends to BUV's higher education programs.

He sees virtual production and generative AI as major trends shaping the future of filmmaking. AI can streamline the production process, from storyboarding to concept testing, and help bring filmmakers' creative visions to life. However, he cautions against over-reliance on AI, pointing out that it is a tool, not the end product.

"The biggest downside is that some people think they can do everything with AI. That's a mistake. AI is just a tool, not the end product, as it often creates formulaic visuals lacking depth and humanity," he said.

The most successful students he has taught, whether undergraduate or postgraduate, are those who focus on writing their own scripts and producing their own films.

As a film fund manager and lecturer, Dr. Moody has helped develop numerous talents who are now producing major international films and television series.

At BUV, he encourages the same ethos: students should write their own stories, create the films from those stories, and own the intellectual property. In the Film and Media Production program, students are trained not just as directors but as professional organizers and distinct storytellers with their own unique narratives.

Dr. Moody has been impressed by the dedication and capabilities of BUV students. He believes they will not only be industry-ready professionals upon graduation but will also possess a strong sense of ethics and responsibility, helping them thrive in competitive environments and make meaningful contributions.

Dr. Paul D.J. Moody awards scholarships to outstanding students in communications and creative fields at British University Vietnam. Photo courtesy of BUV

Arriving in Vietnam in early 2024 to join BUV marked a new development in Dr. Paul Moody's career. He enjoys the opportunity to develop creativity and nurture emerging talent and aims to shape the future of Vietnam's communications and creative industries on the global stage.

See more about the School of Communications and Creative Industries here.