FILMMAKING STUFF Filmmaking Stuff is a resource for independent filmmakers, including articles on independent film finance, screenwriting, production, movie marketing and film distribution, as well as interviews with Hollywood producers, movie directors, screenwriters and other filmmakers.

Dear Jason,

I’m very sorry. I know you’ve been calling about the money we owe you for [MOVIE PROJECT X]. We have been incredibly busy as you can imagine – we recently upgraded our editing suite (you should come over and check out our facility – it’s awesome!) But anyway, I know we are a few months behind with those checks. If it’s OK with you, give us a call after the holiday (we are headed to Key West for the fourth. Have you been there? It’s amazing!) And I promise we can discuss payment. Maybe we can settle on half the money we owe you? Anyway, I’m sure we can work it out.

Best,
Robert Rip Off
- – -

I know the above scenario seems pretty far out there. But this sort of thing happens in the movie business more than you know. And no matter what side of the deal you’re on (I assume you will be honorable in all your dealings) – whenever this happens relationships end. Bridges get burnt. Here are some tips I’ve learned through the years:

1. Don’t do business with people who you wouldn’t want to introduce to your mother.
2. Get everything (EVERYTHING) in writing. Even among friends. Especially among friends.
3. Always honor your word. If you make an honest mistake, work to rectify it immediately!
4. Plan for the best, but always ask yourself – what is the worst that can happen? Then plan for that!
5. In filmmaking as in life, treat everyone with respect. The man fetching coffee today, controls the money tomorrow.

Spread The Word!

Posted under Filmmaking

I’ve been working on a new project – and it’s surprising to me how some people are incredibly nice, hard working, responsible and smart. Yet, I’m equally surprised by the amount of people who are lazy and not-so-responsible.

The other night a friend of a friend of a friend kept telling me how upset he was that someone stole his movie idea. The story had something to do with space and time travel and a villain… I don’t remember. I asked him if he actually wrote a script, or if it was just an idea. He told me it was just an idea. Said he thinks someone overheard him at the local coffee shop.

The thing is, I stopped listening. I’m a nice enough guy. But I get frustrated when people come up with movie ideas and simply expect some Hollywood executive to magically appear and pay for ideas. I’m not saying it can’t happen (I actually know a filmmaker who was given over a million dollars to make a feature, based on the strength of his short movie) – But I’m saying this. If you aren’t preparing yourself for lucky opportunities every day – by actually completing projects, and honing your career skills (writer, director, etc) then please don’t complain.

Everybody has ideas. Few people control the rights to completed screenplays.

Spread The Word!

Posted under Filmmaking