Filmmaking / Directing

There are very few rules when it comes to declaring yourself a director because everyone’s background and circumstances are unique. What may work for one person may not (and probably won’t) work for another. Whether through formal education, industry experience, or self-directed learning, the path to becoming a director usually matches the individual's mindset, strengths and opportunities.

1. What Kind of Person Becomes a Director?

a. Passionate Storytellers: Directors are often individuals with a deep passion for storytelling and a desire to create compelling stories through the visual medium of film. They are creative thinkers who are driven by a love for cinema and can envision the entirety of a film from script to screen.

b. Leadership Skills: A director needs to be a strong leader, capable of guiding a diverse team of actors and crew members toward a unified vision. They must possess excellent communication skills to articulate their ideas and ensure everyone understands the project's goals.

c. Detail-Oriented: Directors must have an eye for detail, ensuring that every aspect of the production matches their creative vision. This includes everything from the actors' performances to set design and camera angles.

d. Problem-Solvers: The ability to think on one's feet and solve problems efficiently is crucial for directors. Film productions often encounter unexpected challenges, and a director must be able to adapt and find solutions quickly to keep the project on track.

2. What Kind of Experience Do They Need to Have?

a. Educational Background: Formal education is not a requirement but many directors benefit from studying film, theater or related fields. Film schools provide a place to learn about the technical and artistic aspects of filmmaking, including directing, cinematography, editing, and writing.

b. Industry Experience: Many directors start their careers in other crew positions, such as assistant directors, editors, cinematographers, or screenwriters. Working in these roles helps aspiring directors understand the intricacies of film production and build a network within the industry.

c. Personal Projects: Many successful directors began by creating their own short films, documentaries, or independent projects. These personal projects allow them to develop their style, gain practical experience, and showcase their work to potential producers and studios.

3. Do They Have to Go to Film School?

a. Not Necessarily: Film school can provide a solid foundation and valuable networking opportunities, but it is not the only path to becoming a director. Many successful directors are self-taught, through hands-on experience, online resources, and studying the works of established filmmakers.

b. Benefits of Film School: Attending film school can offer structured learning, access to professional equipment, and opportunities to collaborate with peers. It also provides a platform to receive feedback from experienced mentors and build a portfolio.

c. Alternative Paths: There are numerous alternative ways to learn filmmaking, such as online courses, workshops, film festivals, and industry events. These avenues can provide practical knowledge and networking opportunities similar to those found in film schools.

4. Should They Have Industry Experience in Another Crew Position?

a. Highly Beneficial: Working in other positions offers valuable insights into the filmmaking process. It helps aspiring directors understand the roles of different departments, creating better collaboration on set.

b. Assistant Director Role: Many directors start as assistant directors where they learn about scheduling, managing sets, and coordinating between departments. This role provides a comprehensive view of the production process and helps build leadership skills.

c. Editing and Cinematography: Experience in editing or cinematography is also beneficial. Editors develop a keen sense of pacing and storytelling, while cinematographers gain a deep understanding of visual composition and lighting. These skills are directly applicable to directing.

d. Experienced Actors: Many experienced actors have transitioned to directing and they often bring a unique perspective and deep understanding of performance to their new role.

I have been closely following the developments in the streaming and studio landscape over the past few weeks—particularly regarding Netflix and Warner Bros. (Warner Bros. Discovery). Over the past year, these two industry giants have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of visual storytelling and distribution—each with its own strategies, strengths, and limitations. Here, I aim to provide a clear, professional, and impartial analysis that can serve filmmakers, media professionals, and industry observers.

Current Situation — What Happened and Why It Matters

Recently, major news shook the media landscape: a high-profile negotiation and potential acquisition involving Warner Bros., which drew intense interest from multiple players, including Netflix and Paramount/Skydance. This is more than a simple transaction; it raises critical questions about market competition, content diversity, and consumer pricing. For example, lawsuits have emerged against Netflix attempting to prevent a possible merger with Warner’s studio and distribution assets, citing potential risks of reduced market competition. This signals that the stakes extend beyond mere acquisitions—they touch the very ecosystem of creative freedom and audience access.

Additionally, a highly competitive bidding war has unfolded among potential buyers of Warner assets. Paramount/Skydance, for instance, has reportedly made a higher bid, illustrating both the financial and political complexity of these negotiations.

Meanwhile, Warner has made strategic adjustments in recent months, including reinstating the HBO Max brand after a brief rebranding to “Max,” and restructuring its business to reduce debt and focus on strong brand identities. This tactical retreat from an ambitious rebrand underscores the enduring value of a recognized brand like HBO in retaining audience loyalty.

On the other hand, Netflix has pursued several strategies to revitalize subscriber growth, such as cracking down on password sharing and introducing ad-supported subscription tiers, alongside investments in live sports content. While these initiatives have yielded short-term gains, questions remain about their long-term sustainability and impact on Netflix’s business model.

Strategic Advantages — A Positive Perspective

Netflix

Global Content Investment and Brand Reach: Netflix is a truly international platform, producing local and global content, attracting diverse audiences worldwide.

Agility in Decision-Making: Netflix’s rapid response to pricing, content strategy, and product changes has allowed it to adapt quickly in emerging markets.

Data-Driven Content Decisions: Analytics-driven strategies enable Netflix to take calculated risks and optimize content investments.

Warner Bros. / HBO (WBD)

Rich IP Library: From blockbuster franchises to acclaimed television series, Warner possesses intellectual properties coveted by any distributor or streamer.

Strong HBO Brand Identity: Restoring HBO Max highlights that established brands can maintain and regain audience trust.

Diverse Business Model: Warner’s activities span studio production, TV, streaming, and ancillary products, contributing to long-term financial stability.

Limitations and Risks — Practical and Ethical Challenges

Netflix

Regulatory Pressure: Any attempt to acquire a major studio asset brings scrutiny from antitrust authorities and potential consumer lawsuits, as seen with recent legal challenges.

Revenue Model Vulnerability: While cracking down on password sharing temporarily boosted revenue, the sustainability of such measures remains uncertain. Ad-supported models may also change the user experience.

Content Churn: Frequent removal of titles due to licensing agreements can affect subscriber trust in content permanence.

Warner / WBD

Debt and Financial Pressure: High levels of debt are a primary factor behind potential sales or restructuring, which could lead to cost-cutting, staff reductions, or shifts in production strategy.

Costly and Confusing Rebranding: The transition from Max back to HBO Max demonstrated that brand decisions can confuse audiences and incur high costs beyond marketing.

Impact on Staff and Ecosystem: Large acquisitions often disrupt existing teams and local production ecosystems, potentially affecting morale and productivity.

Implications for Creators, Festivals, and Audiences

Independent Creators: In the short term, larger buyers may offer wider distribution and funding opportunities. In the long term, consolidation can reduce negotiation power and limit diversity.

Festivals and Smaller Platforms: Competition among platforms has historically helped festivals discover and nurture new voices. Consolidation could restrict these opportunities.

Audiences: Viewers may benefit from access to larger franchises and premium productions, but risks include higher subscription costs, reduced local content diversity, and content availability fluctuations.

Strategic Analysis

From a neutral standpoint, both Netflix and Warner have legitimate reasons for their actions: Netflix seeks subscriber growth and funding for ambitious content, while Warner focuses on brand management, debt reduction, and protecting valuable IP. The key question is whether these moves will balance financial growth with a healthy, diverse cultural ecosystem. Increased market concentration may yield short-term financial efficiency, but it risks long-term cultural and creative diversity.

Likely Scenarios

Legal and Regulatory Scrutiny: Any large merger will face antitrust reviews, as we already see in pending lawsuits.

Competitive Bidding Alternatives: As Paramount/Skydance has shown, alternative bids may result in partial acquisitions or divisions, maintaining competition.

Focused Brand Strategy: Warner’s HBO Max reinstatement demonstrates the enduring value of specialized, high-quality brands.

Personal Conclusion

I believe a healthy industry requires both strong players and a diverse ecosystem of independent producers, labs, festivals, and smaller platforms. Large acquisitions can be beneficial if they protect creator independence and broaden audience access, but if the objective is purely revenue control and market dominance, the result could undermine content diversity and creative opportunity.

Closing Question

After reviewing these developments, I can’t help but ask:

Is Netflix truly aiming to monopolize studio networks and assets to control the market, or is it simply striving to become the unrivaled leader in production and distribution? In other words, are these moves about creating structural market dominance, or about strategic competition and scaling in a world where content production and delivery costs are rapidly rising?

Our latest batch of targeted 2025 Open Writing Assignments (OWAs) closes for submissions in just one week, next Wednesday, December 18th.

This is your final call to get your work in front of top producers, showrunners, and executives seeking the next Palm Springs, Parasite, or Beyond the Lights. Just this past week, three writers received script requests directly from OWAs, and last month, two writers landed general meetings with major companies, this program works!

Don't let your script miss this deadline. Here’s what the industry is actively seeking:

1. For Your Sharp, Theatrical Comedies

A Producer & Showrunner is seeking comedy scripts in the vein of Palm Springs, Someone Great, and Punch-Drunk Love.

2. For Grounded Genre with a Major Twist

A Manager of Development is looking for grounded genre projects with unique twists and a strong POV. Think the bold originality of Parasite, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

3. For Character-Driven Thrillers & Horror

An Acquisitions Executive seeks character-driven thrillers and horror with budgets under $10M, comparable to the intensity of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Revenge, or Drive.

4. For Faith-Based & True Stories

A Manager/Producer is looking for faith-based features, preferably under $5M and based on or inspired by true events, in the spirit of I Can Only Imagine and Miracles from Heaven.

5. For Gripping Political Dramas

A Producer and Director is actively seeking political stories with the high-stakes drama of The Post, The Ides of March, or Political Animals.

6. For Music-Centered Projects (Scripted & Unscripted)

A Producer & Showrunner seeks both scripted and unscripted projects centered on music, inspired by hits like Beyond the Lights, The Idol, and Rhythm + Flow.

Your opportunity could be next. This is your proven, direct pathway to script requests and industry meetings.

Submit Now: https://www.stage32.com/writers-room

The deadline is Wednesday, December 18th. Don't wait—submit before time runs out!

Today, I’m excited to share the official teaser for our crime-thriller series MOUSE, a project born out of a simple mantra at Short Snacks Entertainment:

"Don't wait for permission to create your art."

Short Snacks was built to prove a point: high-quality narrative storytelling doesn’t require massive budgets, endless waiting, or an army of crew. It requires discipline, intention, and a refusal to let the industry’s gatekeeping define what you can make.

MOUSE is our proof of concept — and now, it’s becoming so much more.

_____________________________________________________________________________

What Is MOUSE?

MOUSE is a serialized crime thriller shot in a grounded, cinematic style while embracing the constraints of micro-budget filmmaking. Everything you see is created by a crew of just 2–3 people, using what we have “in the box,” leveraging practical problem-solving, fast shooting days, and a streamlined post-production pipeline.

Despite the constraints, our goal has always been to reach the tonal and visual level of a premium-cable series (something you might expect from HBO or AMC)  delivered in a compact, bingeable format.

_____________________________________________________________________________

The Cast Bringing It to Life

We’re incredibly fortunate to have actors who jumped into this experiment with full commitment:

LANNY JOON (Baby Driver, Lost, Call of Duty)

SHÉLAH LARSON (December to Remember)

LINC HAND (42, Imperium, NCIS: Hawai'i)

SYRA MCCARTHY (Grey's Anatomy, The Dropout)

DANNY PARKER-LOPES (Minority Report, Legend of the White Dragon)

...and many more outstanding cast and crew that have anchored the realism and elevated the scale.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Production at the Speed of Thought

One of the pillars of Short Snacks is working fast without sacrificing quality. On MOUSE, that has meant:

• Principal photography for 5 new episodes completed in just weeks

• Post-production timelines measured in days, not months

• A continuous script–shoot–edit loop, where episodes evolve in real time

• A scalable pipeline where everything from color to VFX to sound is built for efficiency

We film lean, edit lean, and innovate constantly proving that premium storytelling doesn’t have to rely on traditional scale.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Why This Matters for Filmmakers

Stage 32 is filled with creators who are tired of waiting for permission. With MOUSE, we want to show that:

• You don’t need a studio to tell a studio-level story.

• You don’t need a full crew to shoot something beautiful and narratively rich.

• You don’t need a giant budget to build tension, atmosphere, or character.

• The barriers filmmakers think they have… are often illusions.

Every episode of MOUSE becomes a case study in resourceful filmmaking, something we hope inspires other artists to stop hesitating and start creating.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Where We’re Headed

With Episodes 1–5 already out and Episodes 6-9 deep in edit, the world of MOUSE is growing quickly. We’ve recently partnered with Tilta as our first sponsor, marking an exciting step toward scaling the show and deepening the tools available to our crew.

More importantly, audiences have been responding proving that story and craft will always connect, regardless of scale.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Watch the Teaser Below

If you’re a filmmaker, director, cinematographer, or storyteller on Stage 32, I hope MOUSE encourages you to find what’s in your own “box” and make something today, not someday.

Because at Short Snacks, we don’t wait for greenlights.

We create without permission.

Directing a film is one of the most intensely solitary and intensely collaborative experiences you may ever have. It is not only about visually interpreting the screenplay and creatively handling actors, it also includes the ability to complete a day's work on time and on schedule.

Like any artist, a good director understands the necessity of working from the "inside out." In other words, a good director needs to work on him/herself first so they can develop the artistic, logistic and emotional skills that will enable them to better see and hear “the truth” in their work.

Ultimately, I believe the Director’s main job is to empower their cast and crew to work creatively and collaboratively with one firm goal in mind: to make the best film they can within the budget and time they have.

Mark Travis says in his book Directing Feature Films, "The prospect of directing a film is overwhelming. Not only is it not very clear or even agreed upon as to what a director does, but there are very few guidelines or programs for the learning director. There is no particular structure or manual that comes along with the job." https://www.amazon.com/Directing-Feature-Films-Creative-Collaborarion/dp...

To be a film director today, you need to know the creative and technical filmmaking skills of what is expected of you when you begin pre-production; when you step on the set; and when you are in the editing room and to do this successfully, you must:

1. Have complete confidence in yourself and faith in your talent and ability: Believe in your vision and skills, even when faced with doubts or challenges. Cultivate self-confidence so you can make bold decisions and take risks. Trusting your talent and intuition helps you to stay true to your creative goals and push the boundaries of what you can achieve.

2. Have the courage and tenacity to stick it out "no matter what": Persevere through difficulties, setbacks, and criticism. True determination involves maintaining your resolve, even when the journey gets tough. Cultivate a mindset that embraces resilience, viewing every challenge as an opportunity to grow and learn. This will help you overcome obstacles and reach your vision, no matter how daunting the path may seem.

3. Have a relentless focus on what is possible rather than what is not possible: Shift your mindset from limitations to opportunities. Concentrate on solutions, innovations, and the potential outcomes of your ideas. By staying optimistic and forward-thinking, you can inspire yourself and others, creating an environment where creativity and problem-solving thrive. This approach will help you navigate challenges with a constructive outlook, leading to groundbreaking achievements.

4. Never stop searching for your unique voice, style, and expression: Continuously explore and develop what sets you apart from others. Embrace experimentation and self-discovery to refine your personal style and artistic expression. Whether through different mediums, techniques, or perspectives, keep evolving your craft. This ongoing journey will help you carve out a distinctive identity in your field, making your work resonate more deeply with audiences.

5. Stay true to yourself: it will guide you to the right people and the right choices: Trust your instincts and values, allowing them to direct your decisions and relationships. By being authentic, you attract like-minded individuals who share your vision and support your journey. This union with your true self ensures that you make choices that are both fulfilling and connected with your long-term goals, creating a career that reflects your true essence.

This project leans heavily into atmosphere, psychological tension, visual symbolism, and grounded brutality. Below is a short “recap-style” preview meant to illustrate tone and worldbuilding. Would love filmmakers’ thoughts on pacing, imagery, and how the scenes play in your mind:

PREVIOUSLY… ON ROOK VS THE KING-DOM”

Darkness.

A smile floating in the void.

Yellow teeth glowing like they’ve learned to shine in it.

Victer’s hum—soft, wrong, alive.

Lights explode on.

A metal room.

A straightjacketed man whose eyes scream danger even when his voice whispers gentleness.

The pill he never swallows.

The SLAP he never reacts to.

The tub of freezing water he treats like a warm bath.

Then—

SNAP. GRAB. TWIST.

Electricity devours a doctor.

Fear destroys another.

Victer steals a badge, steals a life, steals a disguise…

…and walks straight into society unnoticed.

⸻

VVV blends into the crowd like a wolf in a schoolyard.

A stranger bumps his shoulder.

Victer grins.

FLASH—gunshot.

FLASH—reality.

Then the knife.

Then the collapse.

Then he’s gone.

⸻

The rooftop. The hostages. The impossible choice.

VVV with one hostage.

Another gunman with another.

Two lives hanging on two triggers.

“GOOD evening, Rook!!

Short for rOoKiE?”

Rook fires.

VVV fires.

The gunman fires.

Three lives fall.

One of them Rook’s fiancée.

One of them their unborn child.

VVV escapes with a laugh and a ladder.

And above the chaos—

a comet-like sphere streaks the sky…

two beings inside.

Kyrathia whispering into Earth.

Rook sees it.

No one believes it.

⸻

The police storm in.

They see a killer—not an undercover agent.

Five officers beat him bloody.

He’s thrown down stairs—

walls breaking, bones shaking, vision static-filled.

Dragged outside.

Thrown into a cruiser.

Taken to federal custody.

⸻

The Cell.

The Giant.

The Birth of the BBU.

“PAPERS, BITCH.”

Rook’s answer?

BONG.

BONG.

UPPERCUT.

A giant falls.

A legend begins.

<p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-width: normal; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-kerning: auto; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-feature-settings: normal; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-variation-settings: normal; min-height: 24px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-tap

Here's how we created a Virtual Production Stage in a tiny office corner for MOUSE Episode 1

Directing a film is a complex role that requires a combination of creative, technical, and managerial skills. The director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production and ensuring that the final product fits with their artistic vision. The director must also balance practical constraints like budget and schedule with their creative goals to create a well-structured and impactful film.

A. PRE-PRODUCTION

1. Budget Management: The director works closely with the producer to make cost-effective choices without compromising the vision. The director must balance artistic aspirations with financial realities, often finding innovative solutions to stay within budget constraints. This involves detailed planning and constant communication with the production team to track expenses and adjust plans as necessary.

2. Casting: The director is responsible for selecting actors for the roles based on their interpretation of the characters and their vision for the film. This involves holding auditions, conducting callbacks, and making final casting decisions. Directors also work to ensure that the chosen actors can bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Casting the right actors can significantly impact the film's success by ensuring strong performances that connect with audiences. Directors often consider an actor's chemistry with others and their ability to embody the character authentically.

3. Collaboration: The director collaborates with the cinematographer, production designer, costume designer, and other key crew members to ensure a consistent vision for the film. Effective collaboration requires clear communication and a shared understanding of the film’s goals, creating a unified approach to the project's execution. This teamwork is crucial for creating a visually and narratively strong film.

4. Conceptualizing: The director works closely with the screenwriter and other key creative personnel to develop the story, characters, and overall concept of the film. This involves brainstorming ideas, discussing themes, and shaping the story structure. The director's vision guides the development process, ensuring that every element supports the intended story. Conceptualizing also includes visualizing the film's look and feel, setting the tone for its creation.

5. Costume and Makeup Design: Collaborating with costume and makeup designers to create appropriate looks for characters that work with the film's aesthetic and period. The director ensures that the costumes and makeup are consistent with character development and the film’s setting and visual style. This process helps in creating believable characters and maintaining continuity throughout the film. Effective costume and makeup design contribute to the overall authenticity and visual appeal of the film.

6. Emergency Preparedness: Planning for emergencies with comprehensive safety plans, including first aid training, evacuation procedures, and crisis management strategies. Ensuring the safety and well-being of cast and crew by preparing for potential incidents and having protocols in place for quick response. Directors must be prepared for unforeseen events and have contingency plans to minimize disruptions. Regular safety meetings ensure that everyone is aware of emergency procedures.

7. Environmental Considerations: Implementing eco-friendly practices on set, such as using sustainable materials, reducing waste, and promoting energy-efficient methods. Strategies for managing waste, recycling, and adopting green practices to minimize the environmental impact of film production. Directors can lead by example in promoting sustainability and encouraging the crew to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors. This approach helps in reducing the film industry's carbon footprint and promoting a greener future.

8. International Production Coordination: Tips for managing international shoots, understanding cultural differences, and navigating foreign regulations. Strategies for coordinating with local crews, handling language barriers, and ensuring smooth operations in diverse international locations. Directors must be culturally sensitive and adaptable to different working environments. Proper planning and local expertise are crucial for successful international productions.

9. Legal and Compliance Issues: Understanding contracts, labor laws, and industry regulations to ensure all production activities are legally compliant. Guidance on navigating intellectual property rights, insurance requirements, and union regulations to avoid legal pitfalls. Directors must stay informed about legal obligations and ensure that the production adheres to all relevant laws and regulations. This knowledge helps in preventing legal disputes and ensuring smooth production processes.

10. Location Scouting: The director, along with the producer, production designer and location manager, identifies and secures suitable locations for shooting. This involves visiting potential locations, negotiating with property owners, and obtaining permits. The director ensures that each location enhances the film's atmosphere and supports the story’s visual and narrative requirements. Location scouting is crucial for creating authentic and visually appealing settings that enhance the film's realism.

11. Multitasking and Prioritization: Techniques for managing multiple tasks simultaneously, including effective prioritization, delegation, and time management skills. Tools and methods for staying organized, such as using project management software and developing daily checklists. Directors often juggle various responsibilities and must stay focused to ensure efficient workflow. Effective multitasking and prioritization are essential for meeting deadlines and maintaining productivity.

12. Planning and Scheduling: The director works closely with the producer and first assistant director to develop a detailed shooting schedule and plan for each day of filming. This involves coordinating with various departments, managing resources, and ensuring that production stays on track. Effective planning and scheduling help in optimizing time and resources, reducing the risk of delays. A well-ordered schedule ensures a smooth production process and timely completion of the film.

13. Production Meetings: Hold regular meetings with department heads to discuss progress, resolve issues, and ensure everyone understands the director's vision. These meetings provide a platform for open communication, allowing team members to voice concerns and share updates. Production meetings are crucial for maintaining coordination and addressing any challenges promptly. They help in keeping the project on track and ensure that everyone is working towards common goals.

14. Scene Composition: The director and cinematographer meticulously plan each scene's composition, including the positioning of actors, camera angles, and lighting. They work to create visually compelling scenes that advance the story and engage the audience. Effective scene composition enhances the film's visual storytelling and ensures that key elements are highlighted. Directors use various techniques to create balanced and impactful compositions.

15. Script Analysis: The director reads and analyzes the script identifying the key story points, themes, and character arcs. This step is crucial for understanding the story’s structure and the journey each character will undertake. Script analysis helps directors in planning the visual and story elements of the film. It ensures that the story is understandable and that each scene contributes to the overall plot.

16. Storyboarding and Shot Lists: The director and cinematographer create visual representations of each shot in the film, which serve as a blueprint for the other crew members. This involves sketching out each shot, indicating camera angles and movements, and planning the overall visual style. Storyboarding and shot lists help in visualizing the film and planning the technical aspects of each shot. They ensure that the director's vision is clearly communicated to the crew.

17. Rehearsals: The director rehearses with the actors to develop their performances and refine the blocking and staging of each scene. They explore different interpretations and emotional beats to ensure the characters' journeys are convincing. Rehearsals help in fine-tuning performances and ensuring that actors are comfortable with their roles.

18. Technical Coordination: Working with the technical crew to plan the use of equipment, special effects, and other technical aspects of the shoot. This includes coordinating with the cinematographer on camera setups, lighting techniques, and shot compositions to achieve the desired visual effects. The director ensures that all technical elements are seamlessly integrated into the production, enhancing the overall storytelling and maintaining the film’s appeal.

Next Article: Overview of a Film Director’s Responsibilities (PRODUCTION)