On Filmmakers

I've noticed many Ebay ads, DVXUser marketplace threads, and many many many stories about people trying to sell they're DVX/HVX/XL2 whatever because they had these big plans to make the ultimate movie, but then they found out how hard it was and bailed and got stuck with all the "worthless" equipment.

It used to be that everyone wanted to be an actor... But now the trend is going to everyone wanting to be a filmmaker. The DVX and similar cameras have opened an avenue for every average joe with deep pockets or itchy trigger fingers to buy a camera and shoot a film. That's cool, I love that... It makes my dreams come true. But on the other hand, it brings several tons of schmucks into the scene who think they're the next Spielberg. Yea sure, they want to make a movie. But they don't actually want to try.

I've seen SO many people try to make a film, and then once they figure out that you need actors and sets and lights and sound and all of that, they bail. Or, alternatively, they ignore everything you need to make a good film and make the crappiest crap you've ever seen. And then once they realize their crappiness, they come to places like this forum and ask questions like "How do you make video look like film?", or "How do you get the 'Saw' effect?" and so on.

I agree that there are so many "filmmakers" looking for an easy way to stardom. An easy way to talent. But if they have to resort to coming here to ask vague questions about the realtive basics of filmmaking, you can bet your buckets they aren't cut out for filmmaking. It's a strenuous, stressful, arduous task that is very rewarding and thrilling in the long run. But so many people think they can get away with half-assing it all... But they can't.

Making great films comes from trying; trying like hell, every single day of your life until, one day, somebody important might notice what you're doing and give you the opportunity to go and make your first great film. Or your second. And then from there, you live out your days doing what you truly love. Of course, you don't always need that important person to come along. You could make great films your whole life and never once step foot in Hollywood. For some people, making the film itself is the greatest reward. And it's those people who have the talent, the ambition, and the essence of a true filmmaker. Making the actual film is the best part of being a filmmaker. The fame and money are all just bonuses that you get if you're lucky; it should never be the end goal of making a movie. If, for you, it is the end goal... then you're heart is in the wrong place, and you will most likely fail at ever making a film people will watch. However, you might get lucky...

Hollywood is filled with so-called filmmaker's... But I always get the feeling that everyone out there is in it for the money. It's all a business to them. Film is an art. And as with all art, the best kind is always made straight from the heart. It's the passion that drives the talent.

Really... Once you step back and look at it... Genuine, honest to God filmmakers are a rarity.