"That's cute. You know you want to make movies. That's cute" This reminds me of one day during the shootings when I was working as a catering in a feature film and the producer asked me "What do you really want to be?" I smiled and answered happily "I really want to be a director" She looked at me with really cold eyes and asked again "What do you really want to be?" It felt like a fire was starting to burn inside me and I replied again with a serious face: "I want to be a director." She looked at me with pitying eyes and I continued: "I know it's hard. I know how much work I have to do to reach my dreams. But that's what I really want to do and I won't give up on it just because it's hard." She didn't say anything. Just walked away and I think she still pities me. I don't care. The life is not worth living if I don't follow my heart. When I'm 60-years-old, I'm not gonna be some bitter catering person, 2nd AD or script supervisor just because others didn't believe in me. And by the way your videos are really helpful and deep (not just listing). Good reasoning and true, true, so true. Thank you!
Thank you, but it's okay. It strengthened my passion! And I don't mean to say those other jobs are less important, but I know they are not for me. (at least for the lifetime)
Wow earth must have been dragging me. Im grade 10 thus at first i wanted to be a psychologist cuz of CURIOSITY BUT WHAT REALLY MAKES ME HAPPY IS FILM DIRECTING
My dream is to become a great film director. I haven't really started on it but all I can think about is making films and becoming successful. Thank you for making this video. I found it inspirational and motivating.
Yaroslav Avdiev go to school for video and film production that's what I'ma do by 2018 make short films in class activity and post on you tube real talk...
If you want to be a director, pick up an iPhone or iPad and film something. If you want to be a great writer, write something. Don't waste time just thinking about it. If no one can see it, it doesn't exist. Best of luck to you.
Even correction has to be controlled. A friend once said to me, 'The only enemy of good is better.' You know have to know when to stop somewhere. Give yourself a limit. Good enough is good enough.
The hardest part for making a film for me, is finding actors/actresses. I don't need oscar winning actors/actresses (although it would be nice hahah) I just need people who are reliable. So many people bail last minute after they said they want to do it, and a lot of that is because I can't offer to pay them since all my money is invested in the rest of the film. Any suggestions on finding good, reliable actors/actresses?
That's a tough one, Unfortunately if you're not paying them then there will always be that possibility of them bailing. I try and make sure that they are serious about acting before I cast someone if it isn't a paid part.
D4Darious Yeah, getting and keeping actors is possibly the most complicated thing about directing a movie, at least from my personal amateur experience. Ever thought about making a video on that, Darious? It would be pretty helpful :)
Maybe you should assign the most part of your budget to casting, and try to be more resourceful and creative in other departments if you run out of money.
I've had similar problems like this on shorts. I would say finding a way to give them something (back-end pay, perdiem, free food, free drinks after the shoot) can help. But also, I'd say one thing I am definitely going to do on my next projects is be much more selective during the initial casting process. Don't rush that phase. stretch it out and do multiple rounds of auditions if you can to weed out those who are less dependable and get to the ones that really do care about your work and want to be a part of it. That and creating a fun environment the whole way through (from auditions through rehearsals and into production) is also a big way to help keep retention up.
Strong actors will commit if there's 1) a kick ass script, 2) a director that is passionate and knows what they're doing & 3) a day rate minimum. If you're going to pay the crew, pay your actors. There's no getting around that. Even if you have to pay them after wrapping up production.
LoL it happens. Sometimes watching your tone when you address your friends and crew can help with that. You may not intend to come off being bossy but your tone might be misleading others into thinking that you are. Thanks for commenting.
@lilmil From my experience, don’t be a dictator. You may be the boss but you need to still be people’s friend as this business is all about your connections. Listen to your cast and crew, understand their perspectives and always let them know you appreciate them. And like Darious said it’s all about making the best film possible, but still be considerate of those you work with. No one wants to work for a jerk, even if their talented.
Just wathced your video. Thank you so much for this. Have lost my creative way recently and trying to bring it back. Everything you've said I take wholeheartedly. Great video!
This was good to hear. I've learned it's ok to rewrite a million times, and let people critique your work and not be offended. There comes a point where you draw a line or make the call to move on, but just being teachable while keeping the greatness of the story in tact.
I'm 15 and I literally got into film making like four months ago. I started getting bored, because I was doing nothing, but then I started watching your videos and they've inspired me to be more open about it. Now I'm in the Drama Club in my school and I feel comfortable talking about my film ideas and stuff to my friends now
Hello, my friend and I make films on this channel. We have old videos from 2 years ago re uploaded on this channel. And to be honest, I'm very critical of our work. My friend Rocco directs the film and I edit them. It goes the other way too sometimes. I have great editing skills now and I have moved away from home. But in May I'm going back to finish up our zombie series called New York Zombies. And btw, if you see our average old films on our channel, please realize we know they aren't great. But in May, we will be making great films, thanks for sharing I showed my friends this.
Struggling to get my first short off the ground and not Mich of a support system in conservative Uganda so his last message really helped energize my struggle because he just basically made it clear that facing doubt from people is part of the process. This guys is just awesome.
Excellent and absolutely true points. Many of the things you bring up are why I've in recent years started to think I'm more suited to being a screenwriter. I don't have the patience or the will to handle some of the elements you outline, and it will be some time before I can conquer them, so for now, I'd rather pursue just making the actual stories and then giving it to (hopefully) more talented people to make it come to life. I know there's always the risk of my work being utterly torn apart and reworked, but that's a risk I have to take. Great video, and quite enlightening.
Thank you for sharing Jones. At least you know for certain which area you're strongest in and what you want to do! That's half the battle in my opinion.
I really felt what you said in this video. Ive always been a movie/show buff and ive always wanted to be part of that. You made me realize its not too late for me and i just need to really push for what i want.
So I just found your channel tonight, and I've binge watched like all of your videos. I don't subscribe to many people, but you've earned it. Thanks for producing some quality videos.
Thanks for the advice. I am only 14, but I like to be able to know when to trust people’s suggestions and when not to. You are very articulate and very nice.
Nice one mate! Opened me eyes that, I'm making a short film independently with no budget were I'm taking on litrally nearly all of the roles (except for acting :P). I know that working as a team makes a better film so I've been telling everyone that already. But I've litrally been planning this for about a year and now that finally started shooting I've been that worked up about the technical sides and every time we film I keep on getting hung up on getting permission for the locations and getting everyone there that I keep forgetting the little and important things that's needed when it comes to directing and comunicating with actors. This was a big help! Cheers!
This was very helpful and motivating. I think what is stopping me getting started with my film idea is a lack of confidence in myself. I don't even know where to begin to learn all the skills needed to make a good film. The technical nature of cinematography, lighting, sound etc. can be very disheartening. And it also doesn't help that I don't know anyone who shares the same passion for films and eagerness to learn. I feel more encouraged now though to get over it and just start small.
i really like your videos. no matter what they are about, even if I'm not interested in the topic, i just find them so enjoyable to watch. thank you for making these videos consistently.
I struggled with this same concept.. I am not a film director yet, I've started as 3D artist, and I am Vfx Artist, and do Commercial projects, but I always feel unsatisfied with my work its like my default state, and in the process, I learned its not about being satisfied or unsatisfied its about the process of creating. So being the artist, I'll always see flaws in my work regardless of how everyone says and think its perfect, I'll always only focus on the imperfections, but it doesn't dilute the process of creating, it constantly pushes me to try different things, and continue to do with the goal in mind that one day it will be satisfying, but in reality it won't so you continue the journey and just progressively get better and better while feeling the same but enjoying the process.. So imagine your on a quest that is unattainable you can quit, or you can keep going knowing you won't ever finish it, but your enjoying the journey and everything that happens along the way and the longer you do it, the better you are at it.
It is my dream to become a film director although, my parents don't want me to become one. Whenever the topic of what my career will be we would always fight when I say "I want to become a film director" but honestly, it just makes me want to become a film director even more because I want to prove to them that I can do it. Their words sometimes bring me down but I at least have my big brother who defends me and lifts me back up again. He always tells me to not listen to what my parents are saying and to pursue my passion.
awesome advice, I have the same dreams as you. Going to work on a short film this summer, and have been reading relentlessly on how to write and create captivating work. Going to film school this fall so I can get a better understanding of all aspects of film so I can be a better director as a whole. I hope I see you in the big leagues one day. -James
Get it. I feel like I do a lot of this already and could definitely execute this. But I'm so wavering on this lifestyle of film vs like a typical "safe" career like becoming a high school psych teacher or therapist vs making psychological thrillers. Psych grad here turned film 😛 LOVE how you say to accept suggestions from anyone. That's actually a Bible verse. The Bible says a fool despises correction. This all sounds so very humbling -- the production assistant in all of their wondrous twistering around set... The AD in all their planning, considering everyone's perspectives... The director -- learning the very SOIL of where the movie is planted... Seeing the ins, the outs, the X-ray and the photograph.
Awesome video Darious! Thanks for sharing it on the San Diego 48 Hour page. You made a lot of great points. I remember when I first started off, it was indeed by myself. To this day, I normally still work by myself with little help. I have kept an open mind and tried working with different people because I already knew when I started, that I can't do this alone. Working with people I don't know is a gamble. There has been a few times when it hurt my video when I trusted them. Which goes back to me just doing things myself. In return, I've learned a lot of the different aspects of filmmaking, like you said, we gotta know almost all the other jobs in the production team. Filmmaking is fun and stressful. But it is good stress. The type of stress I'd die from. Thanks for the video again!
thanks for commenting MAVP and I'm glad u could relate to what i was talking about. its tought to find good collaboraters whom you can trust but once you find them they can make a world of difference in the quality of the work and the process as a whole. i know exactly how you feel :)
Again, thank you for posting yet another great, insightful video. I helped someone make his small independent movie years ago and told him his script was too wordy. It needed rewriting to make it more visual. He refused to do so (it was his script, too, since he was the director). Once we finished the movie he admitted it had way too much dialogue in it. I told him so, but oh well...
thanks a lot for the tips.. Im actually from theatre.. acted for 4 plays and i directed my own play only once.. and im aiming to see if film could be my next step.. and you've shown me a good guideline.. a lot of things i still need to learn
can you do a video on what are essential things a director/producer should know about each sector and some inside tips maybe? thanks and keep up the good work xx
Thanks for commenting Nina. To be honest, you should learn as much as possible about each aspect of filmmaking if you want to be a director/producer. The more you know, the better. You don't have to be a Wiz at everything but you should know enough about each aspect of filmmaking to communicate what you're looking for or how much things will actually cost you. Producers need to find money for projects so that's another hat you'll be wearing but it would help if you were familiar with the hard costs of filmmaking and that can only come from experience and knowing a little about every job.
As completely backwards as this may sound I don't necessarily think it is about 'making the best film possible' because that's quite an objective idea. I completely agree with everything you said about collaborating and keeping an open mind but as a director your primary job is to interpret and direct the film to communicate what it is that you love about the story, from a personal level. In this sense there isn't necessarily a wrong way to do things (obviously ignoring the characters and going for style is kinda wrong). The journey of the director and HoD's within a single production is usually a lot longer than the person who's offering advice and so one key thing for a director to do is recognise when a good piece of advice is good for you and the story or just good in an objective kinda way. (I know this video is 2 years old now so sorry for the negativity! haha. Great channel!)
Once again, awesome video! You should make a video on your experience on first festival! Talk about what you would do differently next time or if you thought it was worth the time and money! Keep up the awesome videos!!!!!
I'm not 100% sure whether I want to be a cinematographer or a cinematic director, I actually really enjoy both and I will become both, I find myself happy when doing it and I will never give up.
I start film making early I am 18 now and right now I working for my 2nd movie Production still working as camera boy sometimes helping the catering and lighting and I hope I could become a movie producer one day so I could help many talented people 👍 great video that motivated me tonight
All this stuff really hits me. I'm trying to be a good director. But i found myself in this lul where i will write something, get bored write something else, get bored, next thing i know i have 15 plot outlines and no firm plan. And the school that i went to lacked the person that was willing to throw out ideas for everyone to hear. On set it was the directors set. I made a film and everyone praised it, whenever i asked for what was wrong, the only person willing to grill me about it was the professor and i enjoyed that. I found it to be "Too easy" when i edited it and people said "Perfect". I have the drive when i start an idea but i lack the support and care around me. I live in a house with 2 other film makers and everyone wants to work on their idea. I think why i lose my drive is because i sit down with "I want to make a movie based on this shot i thought of" or "You know what i haven't done a thriller, i'll write a thriller" then i just won't be attached to it. I think i need to sit down and think "What do i want to make". Enjoyed the video!
Nice advice again D4Darious. The only thing I feel I need to work on on this list is that collaboration part. Only for the reason that I can't find anyone else to work with.
It's tough when you're starting lol. Part of the reason why people go to film school is to find collaborators and build their network of friends to turn to when they need help.
Hello darius, great video i'm almost okay with all what you said, but i heard tarantino say :when i start film making i was about to do everything my self, control everything and one day someone told me , you want a good image let get a good photographer you wants a good sound lets get a sound professional you wants a good set let s get a pro , concentrate only in your role describing things, tarintino said, describing things this is what i'm good at ....let focus on what i'm good in and leave all the other things to people that are good at too.
Probably my biggest challenge will be listening to others and actually taking what they say to heart. Its not that I think I am a genius, but I tend to fall in love with my script and find it hard to change. Course I am also very critical of myself and am always thinking what I could have done different.
You definitely get better with time. It's tough to let go of some of the ideas you're really attached to in the script or dialogue but sometimes there are better ideas than what you have out there and you'll never see them if your so adamant about sticking to what's written.
I’m only 13 years old but it’s always been my dream to make a film, I’m so passionate about movies and me and friends r tryna make a horror film, I am tryna take it seriously even tho people won’t take us seriously we are serious. I love ur video it rly helped me out.
thanks D4 for your videos. my dream was to work with Sundance. last summer my script was chosen by them for development. the first thing they did was try to take my PG film and try to make it into an R rated film. I pulled out bc I was becoming unrecognizable to myself. I was not going to make my first appearance out in the film world as someone else. I'm enrolling in an intensive film program so I can gain the knowledge that I will need to bring MY vision to life. some people say I should have just went with it then did my own thing once I made money but first impressions are the most important. what do you think about that?
+Maryse Jean-Louis interesting that this was your experience with Sundance. Kudos for getting your script selected by them though. It did occur to me recently as well that they would only be interested in a film if your film or writing style is edgy. But maybe they'd also like it if it's revelatory is some way like shedding light on some cause. In any case you probably did the right thing not getting lost and miserable while gaining "success". You just have to find your success in a different way. I like PG films too though.
What was that script about? Any discussion? If you want to talk privately about it, my email is Jonathan.rome25@gmail.com. But I wanna hear what this story is and whatnot. Just peak my interest. Trust me, I am no one important in the industry, as much as I hope to be soon. But, I'm trying to get in touch with screenwriters to understand where they come from and the stories they have. Please consider emailing me? Thanks! - Jonathan Rome
hey D big up from France, what you is just... so real. No joke man. We are not rockstar, just people who are sharing point of view to make it real. "do the damn thing"...
"Art is never finished, only abandoned" - Leonardo di Vinci
Matt W. And Leo left the painting the “hands and feet” to his interns... cause he didn’t like doing hands or feet... much.
He is wrong sorry
Someone in a DVD bonus feature said that someone who worked at their company said:
"You never really finish, you just run out of time."
George Lucas disagrees
"That's cute. You know you want to make movies. That's cute"
This reminds me of one day during the shootings when I was working as a catering in a feature film and the producer asked me "What do you really want to be?" I smiled and answered happily "I really want to be a director" She looked at me with really cold eyes and asked again "What do you really want to be?" It felt like a fire was starting to burn inside me and I replied again with a serious face: "I want to be a director." She looked at me with pitying eyes and I continued: "I know it's hard. I know how much work I have to do to reach my dreams. But that's what I really want to do and I won't give up on it just because it's hard." She didn't say anything. Just walked away and I think she still pities me. I don't care. The life is not worth living if I don't follow my heart. When I'm 60-years-old, I'm not gonna be some bitter catering person, 2nd AD or script supervisor just because others didn't believe in me.
And by the way your videos are really helpful and deep (not just listing). Good reasoning and true, true, so true. Thank you!
Thank you for commenting. Sorry about that experience you had :(
Thank you, but it's okay. It strengthened my passion! And I don't mean to say those other jobs are less important, but I know they are not for me. (at least for the lifetime)
Good for you. I share the similar interest and I'm ready to do whatever it takes to become a film director.
May the force be with you Rexon.
Fuck what people think follow your dreams
I love filmmaking! I believe in myself!
Same! :D
same
TerraStone ayyyyeeee mann! I love your videos. What uppp!
I'm a psychology major but at heart I feel like I'm a film maker.
I bet you're going to make really well-written characters
Yeah that’s gonna be real helpful, good luck!
Wow earth must have been dragging me. Im grade 10 thus at first i wanted to be a psychologist cuz of CURIOSITY BUT WHAT REALLY MAKES ME HAPPY IS FILM DIRECTING
Mmmm nice... what are you doing now??
No ideaaaa😭
My dream is to become a great film director. I haven't really started on it but all I can think about is making films and becoming successful. Thank you for making this video. I found it inspirational and motivating.
Yaroslav Avdiev go to school for video and film production that's what I'ma do by 2018 make short films in class activity and post on you tube real talk...
me too
but how
Keep it up! I’m also an aspiring Writer/Director too with limited experience
If you want to be a director, pick up an iPhone or iPad and film something. If you want to be a great writer, write something. Don't waste time just thinking about it. If no one can see it, it doesn't exist. Best of luck to you.
Yaroslav Avdiev Did u make it ?
Even correction has to be controlled. A friend once said to me, 'The only enemy of good is better.' You know have to know when to stop somewhere. Give yourself a limit. Good enough is good enough.
AllisterCooper2008 is it true?
AllisterCooper2008 No, that's not true...
iPodiMaster yes it is otherwise you will never finish
Very true. Otherwise you will only make one movie and destroy your mental health.
You just gave the new filmmakers 2 years of experience. Nice video Darious.
Thank you 1001 and thank you for commenting =).
You have to know psychology and filmmaking at the same time
The hardest part for making a film for me, is finding actors/actresses. I don't need oscar winning actors/actresses (although it would be nice hahah) I just need people who are reliable. So many people bail last minute after they said they want to do it, and a lot of that is because I can't offer to pay them since all my money is invested in the rest of the film. Any suggestions on finding good, reliable actors/actresses?
That's a tough one, Unfortunately if you're not paying them then there will always be that possibility of them bailing. I try and make sure that they are serious about acting before I cast someone if it isn't a paid part.
D4Darious Yeah, getting and keeping actors is possibly the most complicated thing about directing a movie, at least from my personal amateur experience. Ever thought about making a video on that, Darious? It would be pretty helpful :)
Maybe you should assign the most part of your budget to casting, and try to be more resourceful and creative in other departments if you run out of money.
I've had similar problems like this on shorts. I would say finding a way to give them something (back-end pay, perdiem, free food, free drinks after the shoot) can help. But also, I'd say one thing I am definitely going to do on my next projects is be much more selective during the initial casting process. Don't rush that phase. stretch it out and do multiple rounds of auditions if you can to weed out those who are less dependable and get to the ones that really do care about your work and want to be a part of it. That and creating a fun environment the whole way through (from auditions through rehearsals and into production) is also a big way to help keep retention up.
Strong actors will commit if there's 1) a kick ass script, 2) a director that is passionate and knows what they're doing & 3) a day rate minimum. If you're going to pay the crew, pay your actors. There's no getting around that. Even if you have to pay them after wrapping up production.
You are just about the most helpful person to an aspiring filmmaker on youtube. Your message is objective,on point and without the b.s
piwainashe matereke Thank you so much Piwainashe. I try and keep things simple lol.
Whenever I direct something I am acused of being to bossy It really annoys me
LoL it happens. Sometimes watching your tone when you address your friends and crew can help with that. You may not intend to come off being bossy but your tone might be misleading others into thinking that you are. Thanks for commenting.
@lilmil From my experience, don’t be a dictator. You may be the boss but you need to still be people’s friend as this business is all about your connections. Listen to your cast and crew, understand their perspectives and always let them know you appreciate them. And like Darious said it’s all about making the best film possible, but still be considerate of those you work with. No one wants to work for a jerk, even if their talented.
"Good filmmakers tend to make good films."
Just wathced your video. Thank you so much for this. Have lost my creative way recently and trying to bring it back. Everything you've said I take wholeheartedly. Great video!
Thank you Ric! Get back into it Bruh ;)
felt the same thing. Thanks to Darious
ric solomon can't Belive it has dislikes there is absolutely nothing to dislike about this
Very good advice. Based on the dislikes, there are at least 9 people who will not become good filmmakers! Haha!
They won't at all.
love you man i almost lost hope in my self
and now i promise u that i will be a great director in Nepali movie"s history 👍👍👍 cheers legend
Good luck Rajiv! Keep working at it Brutha!
The limit is on the mind
This was good to hear. I've learned it's ok to rewrite a million times, and let people critique your work and not be offended. There comes a point where you draw a line or make the call to move on, but just being teachable while keeping the greatness of the story in tact.
This is why I love the school I go to we learn everything from audio to producing editing to directing little bit of everything
Film school is very convenient :) I enjoyed it.
Real talk, Darius. Very helpful video - thanks.
This video was really useful, as I am an aspiring film maker, so thank you. xx
Thank you for watching Erin. I'm glad this helped :)
Lol
hey Darious!
really good stuffs here!! i like :D
T7pro Thank you T7pro. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
I'm so glad I found you on here, man you are about to be a person that helps a lot. thanks Wow, what you said about people having inputs blew me away.
Rody Pollock Thanks for watching and commenting again Rody =)
damn i just found your channel today and now i want to binge watch all of your videos
The best way is Don't Give Up, whatever people say about you just don't give up and try your best to make your film better.
Still helpful 7 years later. Working on my first feature at 50. Your videos are helping me get ready. Appreciate you sir.
Wow, so glad I found your channel. Absolutely fantastic tips! I'm a writer with a growing interest in screenwriting. Thanks for your generosity.
Rita Hubbard You're more than welcome Rita. Thank you for watching =)
Dude so true, When i make things I always look at it and always see things I could have done better or different. keep up the videos dude
ShadowMan! Thanks for commenting bruh and will do.
I'm 15 and I literally got into film making like four months ago. I started getting bored, because I was doing nothing, but then I started watching your videos and they've inspired me to be more open about it. Now I'm in the Drama Club in my school and I feel comfortable talking about my film ideas and stuff to my friends now
Knowing my favourite director (Stephen speilburg) was rejected by two film schools and he is now legendary so that gives me hope for my dream
Hello, my friend and I make films on this channel. We have old videos from 2 years ago re uploaded on this channel. And to be honest, I'm very critical of our work. My friend Rocco directs the film and I edit them. It goes the other way too sometimes. I have great editing skills now and I have moved away from home. But in May I'm going back to finish up our zombie series called New York Zombies. And btw, if you see our average old films on our channel, please realize we know they aren't great. But in May, we will be making great films, thanks for sharing I showed my friends this.
Struggling to get my first short off the ground and not Mich of a support system in conservative Uganda so his last message really helped energize my struggle because he just basically made it clear that facing doubt from people is part of the process. This guys is just awesome.
Excellent and absolutely true points. Many of the things you bring up are why I've in recent years started to think I'm more suited to being a screenwriter. I don't have the patience or the will to handle some of the elements you outline, and it will be some time before I can conquer them, so for now, I'd rather pursue just making the actual stories and then giving it to (hopefully) more talented people to make it come to life. I know there's always the risk of my work being utterly torn apart and reworked, but that's a risk I have to take. Great video, and quite enlightening.
Thank you for sharing Jones. At least you know for certain which area you're strongest in and what you want to do! That's half the battle in my opinion.
I really felt what you said in this video. Ive always been a movie/show buff and ive always wanted to be part of that. You made me realize its not too late for me and i just need to really push for what i want.
So I just found your channel tonight, and I've binge watched like all of your videos. I don't subscribe to many people, but you've earned it. Thanks for producing some quality videos.
Benjamin Carroll Wow. Thank you Benjamin. I'm Honored Bruh! Glad you enjoyed the content =)
Thanks for the advice. I am only 14, but I like to be able to know when to trust people’s suggestions and when not to. You are very articulate and very nice.
Your videos have gotten so much better. Awesome tips in this one, and in the screenwriting video. Keep it up, my man
What's up Daniel! Thank you and will do!
So true, that last part about people saying eh ok cool you want to make movies... it has always been difficult for me to not take that too personally.
Thank you for this video man, i was taking notes and now i think this five advices are perfect for putting on a wall. Keep up the good work.
Nice one mate! Opened me eyes that, I'm making a short film independently with no budget were I'm taking on litrally nearly all of the roles (except for acting :P). I know that working as a team makes a better film so I've been telling everyone that already. But I've litrally been planning this for about a year and now that finally started shooting I've been that worked up about the technical sides and every time we film I keep on getting hung up on getting permission for the locations and getting everyone there that I keep forgetting the little and important things that's needed when it comes to directing and comunicating with actors. This was a big help! Cheers!
This was very helpful and motivating. I think what is stopping me getting started with my film idea is a lack of confidence in myself. I don't even know where to begin to learn all the skills needed to make a good film. The technical nature of cinematography, lighting, sound etc. can be very disheartening. And it also doesn't help that I don't know anyone who shares the same passion for films and eagerness to learn. I feel more encouraged now though to get over it and just start small.
i really like your videos. no matter what they are about, even if I'm not interested in the topic, i just find them so enjoyable to watch. thank you for making these videos consistently.
Thanks for your words man, this has really driven me to go harder at what I do!!
Respect from London
Critical of your work, Good filter of ideas, Communication, Collaboration, Drive
saw you on stage 32, now going to binge watch your uploads. Besides the being critical/never satisfied point is profound.
Welcome Somni. Glad you found the videos useful =) and I appreciate the feedback!
So either...
1. Make good films and be unsatisfied with them.
2. Make bad films and be satisfied with them...
:/
I struggled with this same concept.. I am not a film director yet, I've started as 3D artist, and I am Vfx Artist, and do Commercial projects, but I always feel unsatisfied with my work its like my default state, and in the process, I learned its not about being satisfied or unsatisfied its about the process of creating. So being the artist, I'll always see flaws in my work regardless of how everyone says and think its perfect, I'll always only focus on the imperfections, but it doesn't dilute the process of creating, it constantly pushes me to try different things, and continue to do with the goal in mind that one day it will be satisfying, but in reality it won't so you continue the journey and just progressively get better and better while feeling the same but enjoying the process.. So imagine your on a quest that is unattainable you can quit, or you can keep going knowing you won't ever finish it, but your enjoying the journey and everything that happens along the way and the longer you do it, the better you are at it.
It’s the right balance between blazing your own trail and collaboration
It is my dream to become a film director although, my parents don't want me to become one. Whenever the topic of what my career will be we would always fight when I say "I want to become a film director" but honestly, it just makes me want to become a film director even more because I want to prove to them that I can do it. Their words sometimes bring me down but I at least have my big brother who defends me and lifts me back up again. He always tells me to not listen to what my parents are saying and to pursue my passion.
awesome advice, I have the same dreams as you. Going to work on a short film this summer, and have been reading relentlessly on how to write and create captivating work. Going to film school this fall so I can get a better understanding of all aspects of film so I can be a better director as a whole. I hope I see you in the big leagues one day.
-James
James Vaughn Did it work? Did ur dream come true ?
Get it. I feel like I do a lot of this already and could definitely execute this. But I'm so wavering on this lifestyle of film vs like a typical "safe" career like becoming a high school psych teacher or therapist vs making psychological thrillers. Psych grad here turned film 😛 LOVE how you say to accept suggestions from anyone. That's actually a Bible verse. The Bible says a fool despises correction. This all sounds so very humbling -- the production assistant in all of their wondrous twistering around set... The AD in all their planning, considering everyone's perspectives... The director -- learning the very SOIL of where the movie is planted... Seeing the ins, the outs, the X-ray and the photograph.
Awesome video Darious! Thanks for sharing it on the San Diego 48 Hour page. You made a lot of great points. I remember when I first started off, it was indeed by myself. To this day, I normally still work by myself with little help. I have kept an open mind and tried working with different people because I already knew when I started, that I can't do this alone. Working with people I don't know is a gamble. There has been a few times when it hurt my video when I trusted them. Which goes back to me just doing things myself. In return, I've learned a lot of the different aspects of filmmaking, like you said, we gotta know almost all the other jobs in the production team.
Filmmaking is fun and stressful. But it is good stress. The type of stress I'd die from. Thanks for the video again!
thanks for commenting MAVP and I'm glad u could relate to what i was talking about. its tought to find good collaboraters whom you can trust but once you find them they can make a world of difference in the quality of the work and the process as a whole. i know exactly how you feel :)
Again, thank you for posting yet another great, insightful video. I helped someone make his small independent movie years ago and told him his script was too wordy. It needed rewriting to make it more visual. He refused to do so (it was his script, too, since he was the director). Once we finished the movie he admitted it had way too much dialogue in it. I told him so, but oh well...
thanks a lot for the tips.. Im actually from theatre.. acted for 4 plays and i directed my own play only once.. and im aiming to see if film could be my next step.. and you've shown me a good guideline.. a lot of things i still need to learn
can you do a video on what are essential things a director/producer should know about each sector and some inside tips maybe? thanks and keep up the good work xx
Thanks for commenting Nina. To be honest, you should learn as much as possible about each aspect of filmmaking if you want to be a director/producer. The more you know, the better. You don't have to be a Wiz at everything but you should know enough about each aspect of filmmaking to communicate what you're looking for or how much things will actually cost you. Producers need to find money for projects so that's another hat you'll be wearing but it would help if you were familiar with the hard costs of filmmaking and that can only come from experience and knowing a little about every job.
As completely backwards as this may sound I don't necessarily think it is about 'making the best film possible' because that's quite an objective idea. I completely agree with everything you said about collaborating and keeping an open mind but as a director your primary job is to interpret and direct the film to communicate what it is that you love about the story, from a personal level. In this sense there isn't necessarily a wrong way to do things (obviously ignoring the characters and going for style is kinda wrong). The journey of the director and HoD's within a single production is usually a lot longer than the person who's offering advice and so one key thing for a director to do is recognise when a good piece of advice is good for you and the story or just good in an objective kinda way. (I know this video is 2 years old now so sorry for the negativity! haha. Great channel!)
Love all your vids bro been on em lately~! Gotta soak up all this knowledge
Once again, awesome video! You should make a video on your experience on first festival! Talk about what you would do differently next time or if you thought it was worth the time and money! Keep up the awesome videos!!!!!
Thanks you for commenting Ben. I'll see what I can do about the first fest topic.
I'm not 100% sure whether I want to be a cinematographer or a cinematic director, I actually really enjoy both and I will become both, I find myself happy when doing it and I will never give up.
Thanks so much.. this was a superb video. Very motivating... Short and Sweet. Cheer!
Good advice man
I start film making early I am 18 now and right now I working for my 2nd movie Production still working as camera boy sometimes helping the catering and lighting and I hope I could become a movie producer one day so I could help many talented people 👍 great video that motivated me tonight
Thanks for the advice my boyfriend is trying to become a better director n im tryna soak up as much about it to help the best i can !
Good insight. You can learn just as much from bad as good leaders. It just requires tweaking your filter and recognizing "I shouldn't emulate that."
Best thing I have seen in a while, very inspirational
man, thank you soo much you just inspired me to keep doing my thing regardless of people or anything getting in the way.
God damn it, Darious! Your words are so coherent, simple and wise at the same time. Thanks for your tips, man. Greetings from Colombia.
All this stuff really hits me. I'm trying to be a good director. But i found myself in this lul where i will write something, get bored write something else, get bored, next thing i know i have 15 plot outlines and no firm plan. And the school that i went to lacked the person that was willing to throw out ideas for everyone to hear. On set it was the directors set. I made a film and everyone praised it, whenever i asked for what was wrong, the only person willing to grill me about it was the professor and i enjoyed that. I found it to be "Too easy" when i edited it and people said "Perfect". I have the drive when i start an idea but i lack the support and care around me. I live in a house with 2 other film makers and everyone wants to work on their idea. I think why i lose my drive is because i sit down with "I want to make a movie based on this shot i thought of" or "You know what i haven't done a thriller, i'll write a thriller" then i just won't be attached to it. I think i need to sit down and think "What do i want to make". Enjoyed the video!
***** thanks for commenting and sharing, not only your thoughts, but your situation Darren =)
You made a long story short, straight to the point! Thx
Great advice... and free education too :)
Thank you Free Skills!
Oh man, I needed this. This is it!
Nice advice again D4Darious. The only thing I feel I need to work on on this list is that collaboration part. Only for the reason that I can't find anyone else to work with.
It's tough when you're starting lol. Part of the reason why people go to film school is to find collaborators and build their network of friends to turn to when they need help.
Thanks for the story. I'll be sure to ask around.
I love your direct way of talking.
Great Job. You are an articulation master. I love what you say and how you say it. Your hard work shines bright. Thanks.
Darious is my favorite online film coach. Bravo :)
Your videos are super helpful man keep doing good work 👍
How important is this, thnx for the motivation bro.
Aziz Marhomi Thank you Aziz!
One of the best channels. Thanks for doing this!
Thank you for watching Kick :)
Hello darius, great video i'm almost okay with all what you said, but i heard tarantino say :when i start film making i was about to do everything my self, control everything and one day someone told me , you want a good image let get a good photographer you wants a good sound lets get a sound professional you wants a good set let s get a pro , concentrate only in your role describing things, tarintino said, describing things this is what i'm good at ....let focus on what i'm good in and leave all the other things to people that are good at too.
Probably my biggest challenge will be listening to others and actually taking what they say to heart. Its not that I think I am a genius, but I tend to fall in love with my script and find it hard to change. Course I am also very critical of myself and am always thinking what I could have done different.
You definitely get better with time. It's tough to let go of some of the ideas you're really attached to in the script or dialogue but sometimes there are better ideas than what you have out there and you'll never see them if your so adamant about sticking to what's written.
Wow, awesome. All your videos are just a joy to watch and learn from. Thank you so much.
Thank you for each and every video of yours , keep going , lot of people learning from you including me.
this video is low key really inspirational at the end
great tips. hope to see you guys in the editing room! working on my third film now!
Homie Darious didn't get faded up for this video. Stay sharp cuz
I’m only 13 years old but it’s always been my dream to make a film, I’m so passionate about movies and me and friends r tryna make a horror film, I am tryna take it seriously even tho people won’t take us seriously we are serious. I love ur video it rly helped me out.
You're very helpful- thank you for making these!
Thank you for watching Androzani!
I'm making a short film about being lost in the wilderness and your videos really helped me !
Nathanael Cole I'm glad Nathanael. Thank you for watching them.
Great tips! Thanks, Darius!
Thank you and you're welcome, Ryan!
Every point you made is absolutely fantastic
thanks D4 for your videos. my dream was to work with Sundance. last summer my script was chosen by them for development. the first thing they did was try to take my PG film and try to make it into an R rated film. I pulled out bc I was becoming unrecognizable to myself. I was not going to make my first appearance out in the film world as someone else. I'm enrolling in an intensive film program so I can gain the knowledge that I will need to bring MY vision to life. some people say I should have just went with it then did my own thing once I made money but first impressions are the most important. what do you think about that?
+Maryse Jean-Louis interesting that this was your experience with Sundance. Kudos for getting your script selected by them though. It did occur to me recently as well that they would only be interested in a film if your film or writing style is edgy. But maybe they'd also like it if it's revelatory is some way like shedding light on some cause. In any case you probably did the right thing not getting lost and miserable while gaining "success". You just have to find your success in a different way. I like PG films too though.
What was that script about? Any discussion? If you want to talk privately about it, my email is Jonathan.rome25@gmail.com. But I wanna hear what this story is and whatnot. Just peak my interest. Trust me, I am no one important in the industry, as much as I hope to be soon. But, I'm trying to get in touch with screenwriters to understand where they come from and the stories they have. Please consider emailing me? Thanks!
- Jonathan Rome
hey D big up from France, what you is just... so real. No joke man. We are not rockstar, just people who are sharing point of view to make it real. "do the damn thing"...
Thank you Fulfilm. Good to hear from you Bruh!!
Nice job on this Darious. Great advice. Keep up the outstanding work.
Great advice, man, the kind of spiriting inspiration a young guy like me making films needs. Thanks.
You're welcome Eric. Thank you for commenting.
D4Darious Be sure to watch some of my stuff and see what you think. Keep on filming.
I really liked the word you got to believe ur vision if u have a feeling that it's perfect and well crafted. Thanks for ur work.
Uma Phani Thank you for watching Uma =)
I already knew these tips before you uttered them. Great advice!
You're ahead of the game :)
Know everything, thats how you are good.
Thank you Darious! This was really useful and inspiring, to me at least!
Krys Cram Glad this helped Krys!
awesome video, very helpful for a starting independent film maker. subscribed
Luke Coutts I'm glad you found this helpful and thanks for taking the time to comment Luke!
Great video and inspiration I’m seriously going start
This is really helpful for my student film as we are struggling a bit with out director
thank you for sharing your thoughts about film making . I really love film making😊😊😍
Great video. Glad I came upon it.