Introducing BIMM University Berlin’s first patron: Film director Tim Pope

4 April, 2022

With the expansion of BIMM University Berlin’s curricular offering with our new BA in Filmmaking, we are delighted to announce BIMM University Berlin’s first patron, film and music video director Tim Pope.

With a list of collaborators that includes Neil Young, David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Talk Talk, The Bangles, Queen, Paul McCartney, Siouxsie & The Banshees, Strawberry Switchblade, Paul Weller, Amanda Palmer, Wham!, The The, Soft Cell, Fatboy Slim, The Darkness, The Kaiser Chiefs, Tim Burgess and The Cure, Tim Pope is one of the most celebrated and influential directors since the birth of MTV.

Beyond his vast expertise in music video direction, Tim has also worked for brands like Kodak and Coca Cola, as well as in TV, documentary, live concert, short film and directed in Hollywood with his debut feature film The Crow: City of Angels, which reached No. 1 in the US box office.

As someone with a career spanning music, film and the space in between, Tim is the perfect representative for the unique creative environment being cultivated at BIMM University Berlin. With his patronship, we look forward to welcoming exciting collaborative projects across the curriculum, no matter whether a student is pursuing a career in music or film.

Here’s what Tim had to say about becoming a patron and his vision for BIMM University Berlin’s new Screen & Film faculty:

“I believe passionately in supporting young filmmakers and am thrilled to be asked to be a patron of BIMM University Berlin. When I started out in the business there were certain key people who helped me towards the dream of what I wanted to do, and therefore throughout my career I have always mirrored this kindness and support. My way into the business was through pop videos and I always had a vision about how music and imagery worked together, which happened to coincide with the birth of the pop video form.”

Tim’s fascination with film began at a young age. After completing film studies at Ravensbourne College in Bromley UK, he got a job as a cameraman for a company that trained UK politicians for their TV appearances. However, he knew he didn’t want to do this forever and ‘borrowing’ the very same equipment unbeknown to his bosses, he began to film bands on stage, including The Psychedelic Furs and The Specials. This eventually led him on to the career that took him to both sides of the Atlantic, and that he continues to practice today.

“We are thrilled to have Tim as our Patron at the Screen & Film Faculty in Berlin,” said Alex Hobden, College Principal of the Screen & Film faculty. “Tim is a true legend and has entertained and inspired millions of people across his work in music video, documentary and feature film. Our students will gain invaluable insight from his extensive industry experience, sage advice and passion for developing the next generation of filmmakers.”

As part of Tim’s patronship and the expansion of BIMM University Berlin, students, staff and the public will be invited to an exclusive masterclass and Q&A with Tim at House of Music, Berlin. During this masterclass, Tim will touch on his career to date and give his expert perspective on the relationship between music and film.

Find out more about attending Tim’s masterclass, by heading here.

We are absolutely delighted to welcome Tim Pope to the BIMM University Berlin community. Please keep an eye out for more from Tim and how his patronship with us evolves by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Photo credit: @andyvelladesign


Want to become part of a rich history of Filmmaking in Berlin? Find out more about our new BA (Hons) Filmmaking Course and attend an open day! You can also speak to our Admissions Team, who will support you through your application. Reach out to them via email admissions@bimm-institute.de or give them a call at +49 (0) 30 311 99 186.

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