As writers who want to be filmmakers, we often don’t research much about who we are hiring to bring our script to life.
I have so many examples of hiring not the best crew. That means the film didn’t turn out well. That’s on me.
But you don’t have to make the same mistakes.
Check me out on Patreon and read how to find the best crew for your film or web series.
https://www.patreon.com/posts/138140587?utm_campaign=postshare_creator
1 person likes this
"Interview them! Don’t just hire them on the spot after seeing their work and getting a reference. No 9-5 does that so why should a producer do that?" That's a great point, @Alicia! Helpful tips! Thanks for sharing them.
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“That’s a strong point, Alicia — you’re right, we often treat creative partnerships more casually than a regular 9-5 job, even though the stakes are just as high. I’m about to sign my first co-production deal as both writer and director of a short film. Do you think it’s normal for the producer to want 50% ownership + an upfront fee, even though I’m covering most of the budget?”
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Maurice Vaughan Of course! I wish I knew about these things before I started making short films. I had to do trial and error!
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Charmane Wedderburn If you are putting most of the budget together, what are they doing? Also-up front fee? Red flag! Don’t sign a deal! No producer asks for money up front. Don’t give half ownership either. Find someone else to work with.
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“Thank you, Alicia McClendon, that’s very clear. I was starting to feel it wasn’t balanced, but hearing it from an experienced voice really confirms my instincts. I’ll hold my ground.”