I just have a simple question...

F

Firm1

So currently, I'm in the process of trying to become an established filmmaker like everyone else and I'm completely fixated on the reason for why some people make it and other people don't. I mean, isn't that the fundamental question when it really comes down to it? Isn't that what people yearn to know and understand? What makes a genius filmmaker?

So I guess I would like to know that from all of you guys...What do you think makes a genius filmmaker? And, how do you plan on getting there?
 
Filmmaker can be a pretty broad term - are you talking about Writer, Director, DP, Sound Recordist, Sound Designer, Production Designer, etc. etc.

I think each department and position can have a very different way of 'making it' or at least getting to the point where you may be on your way to 'making it' - ie, if you wanted to DP, you would probably camera assist for a while, if you wanted to write, you'd hone your writing skills and then submit to studios, if you wanted to be a Sound Recordist, you'd probably Boom Swing etc. etc. etc.

For a Director, there's no clear path and as much as everyone else you kinda have to find your own way, often funding or finding funding for your own shorts to 'prove' what you can do. I think if you want to be a Director, film school can be a great way to go as it gives you an opportunity to learn film, and make your own films with good crew, good people around you, a good network and good equipment and in a sense learn how to direct, learn what you should and shouldn't do - and in a way prepare you for other gigs you may get.

But then, I'm a Cinematographer and Camera Assistant so maybe some of the Directors can chime in :)

EDIT:

Also, many have different views of success and what they classify as 'making it'. Some see 'making it' as being a top Hollywood Director, others see it as Focus Pulling on high profile shows, others see it as travelling around with a wildlife doco crew through the jungles of Borneo, Africa, etc.

The path, and the qualities needed I would argue differs depending on your idea of success or 'making it'.
 
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It's all about communication. The job of an artist - whether it's painting, literary writing, music, filmmaking, etc. - is to evoke an emotional response from his/her chosen audience. To do this the artist needs to master the technical aspects of their craft so they can better elicit that emotional response.

But this also implies that the artists understands at the most basic level what it is that his/her audience wants. What does the audience want? That is the question that the filmmaker must answer before s/he begins to write or shoot. The best filmmakers know the answer almost instinctively.
 
Firm1 said:
So I guess I would like to know that from all of you guys...What do you think makes a genius filmmaker? And, how do you plan on getting there?
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First, I'd define a "genius filmmaker" as someone who provides a product many consumers are more than willing to pay a premium for. Repeatedly.

What makes a genius filmmaker?
  • Genuine talent
  • Both serendipitous and self-created opportunity
  • Tenaciousness
  • Some significant financial backing goes a long way.
  • Nepotism and networking, too.

I don't plan on being a genius filmmaker. :)
I know incredibly smart people when I see them. I ain't one of them.
So, I'll contribute what I can to whomever may find value in what I have to offer.
 
With any creative field, there's always an element of luck. But in my opinion, if you make a good enough film, and take the proper steps to get people to see it, people will notice.
 
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