Quiet on set, and action.
Quiet on set, and action.
Quiet on set, and action.
So you wanna make a movie? You have a passion for the cinema and dream of putting your vision on the big screen? Well, believe it or not, actually shooting the movie, the 'production'' phase, is only one small part of a much larger movie making process. Pre production can take up a lot more time than the actual shoot. Preproduction includes things like: script writing, budgeting, casting, scheduling, location scouting, rehearsing and renting or making costumes, props and sets.
But before any pre production can start, you'll need a script. Hollywood scripts go through countless revisions and spend, on average, five years in development. But if you haven't got that kind of time, you'll need to make sure that you cover at least these basics: First, decide on the genre, and develop the premise, characters, plot and dialogue until you're happy with them. Making storyboards can also help you see how the story will unfold visually. Then you'll need to find enough cash to fund your project, anything less than fifteen thousand dollars simply won't be enough, and even that won't stretch very far.
Robert Rodriguez got the money for his low budget classic El Mariarchi by taking part in medical experiments! Not that I advise doing that, but it just goes to show the measures young filmmakers are willing to take to get their films made. Ask everyone you know to invest in your project, including family, friends and local businesses. If you are thinking of shooting 'on location', you'll require permission. Film crews can't simply shoot anywhere they like.
If it's a public place, you'll usually need to purchase a permit from the local authorities. These costs can add up so, if you can, use the homes of family and friends. Oh, and don't forget: the actors! Advertise in drama schools and local amateur theatres or use your friends. Find actors who are looking to get their show reels together.
Show reels are like artists'' portfolios in that they show the quality and breadth of an actor's work so far. The fact that your movie might give the actors the exposure they need to get their first big break is more motivating to them than money at this stage in their careers. To make the best use of your locations, cast and crew, be sure to rehearse as much as possible before shooting. After the pre production process is over, you're ready to shoot. If you're making a movie on a tight budget, it's important to get every bit of the planning right before even thinking of turning the camera on and shouting "Action".
"And, cut""