Greetings!
I have an ambitious long-term goal to produce and direct my own script once I have the time and some finances. Control over my artistic product is important to me, so I have no interest in going to Hollywood. This would mean getting my own guerrilla crew and ensemble, and managing crowdfunding. Thank God for the Internet...right?
One of the big hurdles for me in this regard is that I am on the autism spectrum, and while it has lent me its gifts (writing, chiefly), social networking is not one of them. Often, it's a struggle to simply get people's attention, and it's easy to get lost in the Internet's noise. I could put any amount of time into writing an Indiegogo plug, or a Craigslist ad for nonunion cast and crew members, and get nothing but tumbleweeds. I can't say I have industry connections and wouldn't want to depend on them; I want to earn my success on my own merits. (FYI, I have thought about trying my hand at theatre first--not as costly, and I'm a New Yorker, so it makes sense.)
Any advice I may get on how to overcome this hurdle to launch my project would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
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Alec, I think a big key for you - as it is for ANY independent filmmaker - is to find an experienced producer. A real producer can not only help you with the things you cited above, but, will have connections to crew to get you the best people at the best rate. Connections and relationships to cast - perhaps even some character actors and recognizable faces. Connections to Film Festivals, which is a valuable route for you to go. And, yes, connections to either crowdfunding experience or perhaps money people. And, can you help you both build a package and organize. Keep these things in mind and Keep breaking down barriers! BREAK LEGS with this project and as I always say, "GOD BLESS and STAY FRESH!" - Sam B
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I would concentrate on writing great scripts first. Trying to write, direct, and produce your own feature right away would be difficult for anyone until you establish yourself. If you write great stories, send them to contests and also talk to producers in your area. Between the two, you start to establish yourself. It's not impossible to write and direct your own movie if that's what you ultimately wish to do, but making a name for yourself first will help.
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Hi Alec Johnsson. That is a great goal. But, to start to write, produce and direct a feature film is like running a marathon without exercising at all and just eating junk food..
You need to make a plan. One step at a time. Learn to write, learn to format the story correctly, and learn story structure, and read Robert McKee, Christopher Vogler, Blake Snyder, etc.
Study films, and find what kind of angles they are using. Copy the angles and the lighting to learn different genres.
I would first focus on short films, or just a few scenes. There you will gain some experience and you will understand more how it is to be on set and working with actors. And then work your way up. One step at a time.Good luck!
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Hi Alec, I am also atypical. I agree with the others, that your immediate strength could be the writing and that could open doors for you. And as for your dream - It is doable, but it can take time. I managed to network a bit by attending writing groups - putting myself out there, and seeing if there were people I liked, that shared common interests. Through my work I was able to convince some of them that there was a benefit in partnering up for small low budget productions to see if we could work together etc. And through that collaboration, despite it's challenges, we pulled it off. And I've been able to meet other talented people - as well as via the internet, to help with some key roles that we couldn't fulfil locally - and repay the favours by helping on their projects in return. Essentially, it takes time. But it can be done. Obviously I've got a long way to go and more improvements to make etc, but now - for the moment - I'm not entirely alone on that journey. Stay strong, do the work and you'll get there.
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Alec, I would start with finding small, local film productions and volunteering. This will not only introduce you to other people in the "biz" (connections), but also allow you to acclimate to the on-set experience. Because, for your long-term goal, you will eventually have to spend long hours on set, around people (perhaps lots of people!).
And, of course, write, write, write!
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Stay healthy- mentally and physically. This is a blue-collar job. My college classmate is a DGA Director and we're the same age, but his hair is all grey from work stress, long hours and no sleep.
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@Dan is right that we need keep mind and body well and in sync in order to keep going with good projects etc. I too am not a fan of social media purely because I am very shy and it was not until I met RB in person that I started using Stage 32. I think you should focus on your writing and you do not need to be a whizz kid at technology to get it out there. Keep writing. Get your log lines and script here Stage 32. Or post Script Revolution. Find people who know how to use the I phone film making tool until you can afford a small crew. Find a bunch of like minded artists who want to make a budget film. Good Luck.
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Thank you! Solid advice all around; lots of stuff I needed to hear. Looks like I have a few avenues to try.