REady to Make your Film?
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You’ve been telling everyone you are going to make a film, let’s show them you can!
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While I can’t guarantee that you will, I do believe you will feel more empowered than you ever have to see what’s actually possible. If you want to tell your story, then now is the time!
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Nothing about this will be easy. This will be one of the hardest things you have ever done, and in the end you will learn things about yourself that you never thought possible. The latter is what makes this process so rewarding.
I made my first short film because someone challenged me. Another filmmaker said If I didn’t like their script then I should make my own, and I did. I won the local film challenge and that started my journey.
Over the past 15 years I have had the privilege to direct three feature films. The first film premiered at the Chinese theatre on Hollywood Blvd and the second at RAindance in London. I was fortunate enough to get distribution for both films and then reality hit. The things you’ve been told about film distribution are true, most films will never make money. While it’s not always about the money, it is about getting your films seen.
In 2020 I transitioned into the classroom and start teaching film and media at the high school level. I would go on to start two programs and teach hundreds of filmmakers how to make their first films. It is my goal to demystify the process so we can make better films.
Just as someone challenged me, I am challenging you. are looking to make your first short? How about a first feature? You’ve been talking about your film for a long time, lets get it made!
It all begins with an idea.
Making a film is hard, but it doesn’t have to be. Enjoy the ride and just get started!
Use your
Imagination
When making a film you must be open to what ever comes your way. Each step of the production cycle allows you another opportunity to rewrite the film and make it the best it can possibly be.
Get resourceful
Filming at night can sound tough at first, but with the right resources you can make it happen with a single light. Filmmaking is inherently collaborative and your crews resourcefulness will make or break the film.
Just Start
The hardest step in any stage of filmmaking is to just get started. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to begin. Here’s a list of some things I wish I knew earlier, hope it helps you get the ball rolling!