Based on his lecture, here goes our compiled interpretation. It might help all new/amateur/novice independent filmmakers.
1. Choosing a wrong genre
You can't please everybody. Different people like different genre. For example, people who like horror might not like romantic comedy. So pick some genre, the right genre. genre will find the audience.
2. No marketing plan
Yes. Do the marketing plan even before writing the screenplay. Who will buy the movie? Television? Festival? What are the submission criteria there? DVD distribution? University cine-club projection? or only Youtube?
3. Insufficient planning
Be organized. Please. Film people need to be. Practice to shoot fast, have backup plan, rehearse actors, check all the equipments before shooting etc. Everything should be included in plan. Full stop.
4. Having not enough money and resources
Some makers even have no idea how much money they need to finish the production. And many filmmakers stopped their 'great film' midway just because of money. Don't start shooting if you can't manage enough money.
5. Bad sound
A movie with bad sound is unwatchable. Bad cinematography, bad composition, bad lighting, that might be bonus. But bad sound standouts. It's one of the most ignored factors by newbies.
6. Bad acting
Don't rely on your friends/relatives. If you are organized, having a good script and operate like a business, a lot of local starving actors will work for credit only. Do some audition. Rehearse.
7. Boring story
Your story is your baby. And you'll love your baby. You shouldn't judge your own story. Pitch your story to others. Check if the screenplay is a great one. If no, rewrite. Modify. Tell again. Don't worry. Nobody will steal your ideas. Filmmaking is the art of collaboration. Accept it.
rupantor's bookmark
- Filmmaking IQ - 202 do-it-yourself filmmaking tutorials.
- Film school online — film production explained by Jerry Anderson.
- Cinema advanced — tips for independent filmmakers.
- Film directing tips — from Peter D. Marshall.
- Wild Sound — resourceful. But site design is not ergonomic.
— Ishtiaque Zico
রূপান্তর ব্লগ / ২১ সেপ্টেম্বর ২০০৮ / ঢাকা
