I've been a member of Stage32 almost since its inception, and although I wasn't active on it for many years, I have enjoyed watching it grow as a safe space for seasoned pros and aspiring filmmakers to connect.
This is a safe space, but it is also one for honesty and transparency, so to anyone just starting out or maybe just a few years in and wanting to produce their first project, I want to offer some solicited advice (if you're poking around in this lounge, you're looking for advice). Here it is... START SMALL!!!!
Notice I didn't say "Dream small." I said, "Start small."
I get a lot of folks hitting me up for direction on how to bring their (insert MILLIONS here) production to life, when they've not even written, produced, or directed so much as a short film. Hear me now: I am not saying you can't make your multi-million-dollar epic. I'm just telling you not to focus on that as the first one out of the gate, because, plain and simple... unless you have a trust fund or a studio head as a parent... it won't get made.
Aim for some closer targets first. Start with a short. Get your hands on a great short film script or write one yourself. Build a stellar team to help you make it, and then once that is out into the world... make another, and then another. Work those creative muscles, start building that reputation. Get noticed for what you have done, and it will make what you are trying to do a little more realistic.
I hope this little bit of insight helps, but if you're still not convinced, do some research on those overnight successes the industry loves to tout. I do happen to know some overnight successes myself, and I can assure you... They spent decades getting there.
So, if you're just starting out, what's your next step? Let us know in the comments.
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I agree, being a newbie who nonetheless came out swinging (call it that overconfidence that's endemic to newbies), I've now learned to significantly cool my jets lol. I'm focusing entirely on getting as much stuff written down as possible, whether novels or comics or screenplays, without worrying about any of them getting released anytime soon. Basically enjoying my writing as an old partner suggested, reducing the stress of wanting something made right now.
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Also I think it's great for creatives to be aware of all the different elements that go into building a career. It's not just about writing a script (which is the best it can possibly be). It's also about learning about the industry. Networking. Making connections and finding collaborators. Creating buzz and momentum about yourself and your work and then building on that. You have to be prepared that things aren't always (or usually!) linear, and that often you won't go in a straight line from the A to B you imagined, and that's ok.
Totally agree with all of this; some really great feedback here. I often tell new screenwriters/producers/directors that actually MAKING ANYTHING is a win. The process of creating and then putting that creation up on its feet is the most valuable learning experience one can have. An added bonus is: you have an asset for your portfolio at the end of the lesson! So, if you're just starting out, don't start fundraising for a TV pilot or an indie feature. Start with a 2-minute short film that you can make for under $500. And then, once you do that short...do another one. When you feel like you've made something you're proud of, move to the next level...and fundraise for a couple of 5-7 minute shorts at $1.5k...and so on, and so forth. By the time you're looking to raise more money, you'll be deserving of that money, because you'll have cut your teeth and gone through the necessary paces.
Great advice Michael Fitzer, Mfa. Get your feet wet, just shoot a project to get the feel for it. Definitely direct a short if you haven't.
This is so true, Michael Fitzer, Mfa -- I liken it to learning how to swim, or learning martial arts. Embrace the beginner mind and don't try to fly before you can walk. Because nothing destroys your passion more than being in over your head. And don't be afraid to pursue different lanes - the advice "stay in your lane" will limit you in the modern industry. Just don't try to learn everything all at once.
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It's not just right sizing your project but also your expectations. Not every at bat needs to be a home run. Take pride in the single and work to push runs across the plate.