Recently I set up a meeting with some mutual friends/acquaintances that have a shared interest in movie making (two of them have a screenplay they're trying to film and the third has made a couple hit movies). I was the connector, but I may become involved in the production of said screenplay, so I had an visible interest in what we might learn from the accomplished filmmaker.
Yes, add "Producer" to my list of endeavors. Next stop, the Miller/Gold Agency in Hollywood. (I'd love to hear Ari yell at Lloyd in person).
It turns out, movie making isn't that different from production of other consumer products. You need capital up front, with precise distribution on the back end. A great product helps, but even movies that are mediocre get made. Much like the trinkets and trash that fill dollar stores, if you have the funding to make the movie, and contracted placements for screening (on-line, direct to video, in theaters...etc...), then even the worst movie can find a home.
Ok, so we knew that much going in, but "what are the tricks" found in the movie business that we need to know? How can we get the backing and build the relationships that will help us make the movie??
The answer lies in the art of illusion.
The easiest way to compel people to help you make a movie, is to make them believe it's already being made. Create the illusion that it's in the works and eventually it will come to be.
How do you create the illusion ?
Be positive.
One isn't simply "trying" to make a film. One IS making a film. You need to talk about production like it's actually happening. Exude confidence and communicate a clear vision. This lays the foundation for belief in the plan, which is what you must have, and what partners will want to see.
Do something. Anything.
Ask people for help, insights, connections. Meetings, discussions, edits, feedback, etc...are all part of the process of film making, so talk about your plans for these things, even if they aren't set in stone. Even though the camera's aren't rolling, there is work to be done. Get people together under the pretense of 'making a movie' and it doesn't matter if you've secured talent or a location for filming, it will seem like you are making a movie, even if you aren't ready to film.
Eventually, you will actually begin to make the connections, receive the funding and accumulate the resources/support you need to make the film.
The funny thing is, the easiest way to create the illusion is to ACTUALLY do these things, which means, it's not illusion at all.....
.....It's execution.
Calculated progress, day in and day out, no matter how small the gain.
Achievement in film-making is a lot like achievement in life and business. Build great relationships, always move forward, push your limits, have a dream and be grateful along the way.
Ohh...and don't forget to be positive.
