If you’re wondering how to break into the film industry, you’re not alone. Nearly every successful filmmaker has started from nowhere. The problem is, there is a big catch 22 in the industry. Unless you’re known, nobody will take your calls or read your screenplays or produce your ideas. And unless you get your work produced, it is really tough to become “known.”
When I first started, I did what you’re doing. I sent out countless query letters. I gave my screenplay to friends of friends of friends who knew (or at least claimed to) know someone in the film industry. I checked my email and mail frequently… And guess what happened? Nothing…
How to Break Into The Film Industry
Sure, I got the occasional rejection letter which sometimes included feedback. But most times, I sent work into the Hollywood abyss. That was pretty much the end of it. And as I type these words, I cringe at the experience. I sincerely dislike asking permission.
The turning point for me came when I realized the secret on how to break into the film industry. I guarantee you will probably not like what I’m about to share… Because this secret is only for the most serious filmmakers. Are you ready? If you are wondering how to break into the film industry, the secret is simply: You need to stop asking permission!
Seriously. You need to stop sending query letters. You need to stop hoping that someone will notice your brilliance and your talent. And above all, you need to quit relying on someone else to do the heavy lifting for your career. Instead, you need to become your own production company. And you need to focus first on the movie you can make this year.
Leverage The Resources You Have
Start off by answering this question:
“Given the resources I have right now, what is the movie I can make this year?”
For some of you, that means you’ll only be able to make a two minute movie for YouTube. That is okay. Make that movie. For other filmmakers, answering this question means that you’ll have to put your twenty-million dollar blockbuster script in a drawer and make that low budget horror movie you’ve been thinking about. By doing this, something amazing will happen.
You will stop waiting around for everything to be perfect. You will take action. And as a result, you will gain the confidence that comes from doing. And ironically (and I don’t fully understand why the universe works this way) – As soon as you stop focusing on how to break into the film industry, and you start doing the work, you will start breaking into the film industry.
If you need more inspiration, I suggest you check out these filmmaking resources.
