I started making films in 2014 when I first began studying it at a local technical college. I barely had any money for festivals when I first submitted a film in 2015 and I didn't get into anything and I felt like I'd wasted all my money on a film that meant a lot to me but was weird and suffered technically. My first feature film in 2017 also failed to get into a single festival, it was very disheartening. Somehow always hoped it'd be a surprise no budget hit like Nolan's Following and launch my career, which I now realize is probably a lot more competitive these days. But finally it has started to happen with my short films. Got a few festival selections for the newest film on my channel, Coffee, and my latest one, One Up, has got 6 selections so far and a few awards! I think part of the issue was straight quality, but the other part was marketability. Short comedy under 10 minutes is honestly a pretty popular format. I'm just excited to finally be getting some success!
Believe it or not, Following was rejected by Sundance. It was accepted into Slamdance though. So even Nolan was initially rejected by one of the biggest festivals out there.
As a scientist, your experience with rejection really resonated with me. Submitting my papers to peer-reviewed journals, I deal with rejection a lot. After working on a project for years, it can be hard not to take it personally. But indeed, often times, it's because it doesn't fit well enough within the scope of the journal. You just have to keep going and keep learning. :)
Can you do reviews for all Quentin Torantino' Movies, before "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood..."? And thanks for all your videos, hope you do many short and feature films.
Would love to see something about Alfred Hitlock Peta Jackson Christopher Nilon Frank Dareablond James Comealong The Watchoutshit -Brothers- Sisters James Fangold Guillermo de la Vaca Josh OnWeed Catherine Bigallow Alfonso Huevón David Bleach Luke Guesson David Hates Awesome Welles Francis Ford Copula Steven Soberberg Ron Howhard Tim Carton Oliver Stoned Ridof Scott Clint Easywood Stanley Cuberick and Chris Fuckmann
As a novelist myself, I was shocked at how many times all that you said applied to writing as well. Rejection is built into the process and it hurts. What you do is inspiring and helpful I think to creatives in virtually every field who want to get success. Thanks Chris
After watching this video, I can genuinely say - you are going to make it. With that drive, insight and work ethic, it's a matter of time before you make whatever film you'd like. Many people have pipe dreams, but don't have the tenacity to bring them to life - you do. Keep it up 👍
So.... I'm in india rn... And things are hitting the fan. Unemployment at its highest. And I feel like absolute poop. And this really really lifted me up and put me back in my shoes to wanna work. Thank you Chris. Please let us onto your life more man
I honestly love videos like this! We hear so much stories of filmmakers giving up because it's too hard, they're not making enough money to fund films so they become content with their day jobs and "unrealistic dreams". It can make any filmmaker a bit paranoid and depressed. Chris your drive to keep pushing forward to make your dreams a reality even though you have had it hard just like the rest of us is what we need more of in this community. Less pessimism and more pure ambition and drive Hope the best for you!
I hope it hits in North Carolina. Congratulations! Maybe you'll be rubbing elbows with Spielburg, Lucas, Soninfield, Bay. Who knows? Keep it up man. I'm in a wheelchair and watching your content always cheers me up. You're my inspiration.
It’s honestly a joy seeing you happy pursuing your dreams. A lot of people seem to be pointing out your lack of enthusiasm during your reviews but I think it’s obvious that you’re just busy now with putting your passion with what you originally wanted to spend your life doing. I love you Chris please never change!
I'm not a filmmaker but the around the end you talked about beating yourself into not wanting to be creative and making shit before you actually make something good, and writing songs are the same way. Thank for the inspiration Chris keep it up!
You're very right Chris. The film industry can be very strange today, but it always has been. But the way I look at it, as long as someone is creative, passionate, loves what they do and can bring so much to the table that's all that matters. I know you have been doing this for a long time and will do really well. I'm very proud of you. Keep up the good work.
Chris I met you in California in 2017 , you are a great guy . I have been a aspiring filmmaker my whole life and now I finally have a feature length experimental ( shot entirely on IPhone film releasing the end of this year , I owe a lot to you because you inspired me along the way . So thank you. I’m excited to see you do more . And I have been rejected by people before with past shorts and I know the feeling .
Chris, thanks so much for taking the time to ease our nerves and fire us up. Ive been out of school for years and fallen away from my dream of creative writing for my job. Thanks for giving perspective and making the struggle and the goal appear attainable and worth pursuing to search for in spite of persistent perfectionist fears
Even with all of the rejection from the festivals, Chris still tries, because he will do no matter what it takes to achieve his dream. And that right there, is inspiring
I think the hardest part for me is that I always shut myself down and don't allow myself to write. I think you are right, we just have to go for it. Going to start tonight and start writing. Thanks Chris, I appreciate the encouragement and seeing your story unfold!
Really appreciate what you say about making shit before the good stuff comes. As a songwriter, this was so true when I first started, and I tell my aspiring songwriter students all. the. time.: you have to make the crap and don't stop, if you want to ever make something worth paying attention to. Cheers Chris, been watching you for a while and my trust in your artistic integrity only increases.
I have a good feeling you won't be showing the film here at the Calgary International Film Festival, but I'm not expecting it. I've been watching you since your collab review on Elysium with Pretty Much It, and I'm glad to hear you're doing well, that you're doing it. I'm 22 and your last video really inspired me to get out there like you and just make things. I recently offered to make a music video for a local artist that unfortunately I don't think I will ever hear from again. And it sucked. And I was about give up until I saw this. So thank you for uploading this today, it was really inspiring. I look forward to hearing more, and from hopefully seeing more of what you've made. Keep at it man.
As a person who made a couple music videos for an anime convention I'll be attending shortly, this really spoke to me. My goal was to be selected as a finalist so that it would be shown to a voting audience and have a chance at winning the contest but sadly I wasn't picked. Dealing with that failure was legitimately rough for a bit but thankfully I have friends who support me and I decided to keep pushing and make more stuff and to improve. It was nice and comforting to hear you talk about that same kind of thing and how you overcame it and so on. Cheers to you, Chris! You're awesome, keep up the good work.
Thank you for sharing, Chris. So insightful with a lot of "yep! Me too" moments that help reaffirm what I knew was true and has deepened my understanding of what I have yet to learn. Spot on! I wish all the well deserved success to you and your team :)
I joined a film class this year and let me tell you. Even though I don’t know you personally, I have been a long time fan of your channel and I’ve carried what I’ve learned from you throughout this years project. My group chose to tackle an animation project and boy am I nervous about showing this film to an audience. I’m just glad to hear about your experience as it makes me feel a little more relax. My festival is coming up soon so yeah haha
I was lucky enough to see Notes From Melanie this past weekend at the AZ International Film Festival; I thought it was great! Very much worth the 2 hr drive and I must say, it stood out amongst the other shorts. I’m real happy to see your dreams become a reality, Chris.
Chris, I just wanted to thank you for inspiring me. My dream is to be in LA and directing films for the rest of my life. I feel very trapped right now. I live in Alabama. I am not from the south, I’m just down here because my dad was stationed here. I adore film and the art of filmmaking and you are just so inspiring. Keep working man. I can’t wait for the day when you get that feature made and I can finally see one of your films. You’ve helped me through some really hard times. I just wanted to tell you that. I’m still in high school and I’m trying to get my name out there. I’m currently in the writing process for my first short that’s going to be in a festival. It’s very difficult. I’ve made other shorts, but nothing to this level. You are the most inspiring person i know. Also remember the movie Whiplash? Yeah, that’s kind of my situation accept on a much less crazy ass J K Simmons level and practicing till my hands bleed level. Nobody. And I mean NOBODY, is accepting my love of film right now. You’re the one who motivates me to not give up and to keep on making films. THANK YOU.
Damn, I needed this video today. Chris, you’re the man. As a fan of your channel for a few years, I appreciate seeing another film lover taking on actual filmmaking. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do. I’m 31 and happy to report that I finally decided to take the leap and start making shorts. My first shirt I made this year is Wolverine fan film I made on my channel. I’m currently writing my second short. And I have dreams to make a feature someday, but I gotta start small first. And your video today gave me a good boost. THANK YOU 🙏🏼
There's always two options 1. Sometimes just jumping in without everything planned out, works out even if it feels like holding your breath and your tummy feels weird. 2. But if you don't try nothing gets accomplished and you just keep beating yourself up. I'm glad to see that you finally jumped, so now that your on your way never give up. 😊
Your a big inspiration to me Chris! Without you, I wouldn’t be as passionate about film as I am today. I wanted to be a film director but once i started viewing your videos, I became passionate about film and want to become one of the greatest film directors and started viewing film as art like you. I want to say thank you for everything you’ve done towards me and I hope someday I can work with you on a film
You are such an inspiration to people like me. People who love writting scripts and preparing roles and gosh youve helped me more than you know. Thank you Chris. Thank you.
It's interesting and helpful to see you talking about rejection in this way. I don't really see it talked much in this calibre and I think it's important to know how to navigate it and learn from it to be better. This was a really helpful insight into how your process is still going. Keep the momentum going Chris, hope to catch one of your shorts in the UK soon!
I spent 16yrs in Hollywood working with studios and some A list directors and writters and produced a few features. It was my life and passion. I moved to TX which has a HUGE independent market here and opened my own studio and even though its sometimes brutally hard its also the best feeling in the world, very inspiring and I wouldn't give it up for anything.
Congratulations on how far you've come! As for rejections...I think that just goes with any goal you try to achieve. Rejection hurts yes (that's only human) but you can't let it discourage you! I think it's good that most of the time you can get feedback as to why. Stay positive & keep working toward your dream. Wishing you the best of luck!
Hey chris im a filmmaker in brazil and man i Love this video! Been rejected in festivals is a very crazy moment in a filmmaker's life! Its crazy but everthing comes in the right time. Today my short filme the hidden verdict was seletionated for a international festival and im very happy!! I am very inspired by you, keep going, that i will keep from here!
I really love this series, Chris. I hope you keep making these for a while because they're really helpful for aspiring writer-directors like myself in my own journey towards filmmaking. Hearing you talk about self-doubt resonates with me right now because while I can get things done, I always feel this lack of motivation to get things moving and a lot of the time it comes from me creating this obstacle in my head that's not really stopping me. Hearing a fellow creator like yourself admit that you have those same problems is such a great confidence booster, and I am rooting for your films to be very successful in the near and distant future. Keep up the good work brother.
Wow Chris, glad to hear that things have been going well with you and your career. Just keep at it man, ur gonna go places. I’m actually kind of inspired by these updates and ur story, because I’m currently trying to figure out a way to pursue a career in film. I have time to figure things out, and I have a lot to learn, but this has helped.
I've been a silent subscriber for a long time, and I just wanted to let you know this really inspired me. I love music, have always wanted to write songs and sing, but never felt good enough. When you spoke about ourselves being the biggest stumbling block that really got to me. Thanks for sharing.
Happy for you man! It’s cool knowing you’re in Ohio , im in mentor about 25 min from Cleveland. Always cool that one of the best channels is somewhat nearby!
Thanks for this , Chris. My sister and I are in the learning process of filmmaking, and it's great to get a reality check that is also encouraging. We're hoping we get to see your film.
Thank you for being such an inspiration for me and many other inspiring film makers. Thank you for sharing your story with us and we cannot wait to see your success on the big screen. Put Ohio on the map Babyyyy!
Chris, I’ve been following you since I was 10 years old (I’m 19 now) and I could not be happier for you. As a visual artist/musician I can definitely relate to a lot of the things you have to say about rejection. It hurts for a bit but there’s nothing one should do but get up and try again! Your passion and love for film has only amplified my desire to pursue what I love over the years. Thank you for being such an amazing role model for me and everyone else who looks up to you! I can’t wait to see your short film and am excited for future projects!
It's somewhat comforting to hear about similar rejection struggles from fellow filmmakers, especially from you... someone I've been watching for years and taken a great deal of inspiration from. I shot a short film last summer and spent the last year of my life obsessing over it and finishing it in post. I know it's good enough, and I really believe it has a powerful message. It is 30 minutes long and I'm an unknown filmmaker, and I have submitted to late deadlines, so I do understand the circumstances of rejection that don't have to do with its quality. I've been getting mostly positive feedback from people who've seen it, and I really believe it's great. I've been submitting to a lot of festivals, and some really big tier 1 festivals, but so far... no luck. I hope it gets there, and I believe it will, and this video certainly helped. I really hope you do well with your luck in the future, and I'd like to see some of your work. Stay posted.
It's awesome seeing you're journey, Chris. I think that part about getting to work and not just waiting for your dream to materialize on its own one day rings especially true. I feel like I've always had ideas for stories I wanted to write, shorts I wanted to film, and various other creative projects I've wanted to eventually pursue but, like you, I didn't really hit that point of "eff it, let's get to work and make it happen" until I was almost 30. I'm still pretty early in my journey but I can certainly say I've come miles further over the past two years than I did the previous 10. Keep it up, man. I look forward to seeing your shorts sometime!
What a great video Chris! Happy birthday man, keep being the honest, genuine movie reviewer you are (one of the few tbh) and good luck on all your future movie making endeavours! You are an amazing guy, for real. Congrats on the Hollywood Comedy Shorts and all the other film festivals that have accepted your film!
No bells and whistles, just your words about your filmmaking experience, and it is hands-down the most inspiring video about filmmaking I've seen in a while. Thanks man. I needed this.
Thank you for that, Chris! I really hope the best for your filmmaking career. As a young filmmaker, I don't seem to know so much about it. These videos both teach me and inspire me to do better. Thanks to you I can really have a chance down the road hopefully. I have a TON of work to get up there but you've shown me a lot of things that will help me down the road. I've wanted to be a filmmaker since I was 11 and haven't let go of that ever since. Thank you so much for helping me and inspiring me. It means a lot. I hope the best for you and good luck!
So proud of you. Been watching your channel for years. To see the success this film has gotten is nothing short of breathtaking, emotional, and inspiring. I look forward to seeing the future.
Chris you inspired me to push myself, do more art, recently assembled a small team of friends to make a little animated short, thank you so much for staying so strong and being such a positive and determined character!
Great video. The bit about creative people constantly defeating themselves at 12:40 really hit me. I needed those words as a reassurance you can do what you love by putting your mind to it.
Hey Chris! Double check to see if it’s playing in the actual main theatre (which is IMAX btw) or if it’s playing in the other small theaters above the main theatre...
It's definitely playing in the smaller rooms upstairs. That is where the theater typically hosts their events/festival screenings. The Imax auditorium is usually always booked for the main A list movies that are currently playing. Still pretty amazing feat to accomplish though!
I had a feature film that was premiering at ScreamFest and thought it was gonna be shown at the Chinese Theatre. But it was in the smaller theatres above. Kinda cool but also a little disappointing at the same time.
Chris you couldn't have uploaded this at a more perfect time. I'm going through some issues similar to yours right now, and this is really encouraging. Thank you so much, this made my day.
Keep the faith and keep sharing your journey. I sold life insurance so I too know about rejection. I've been a prof for 30+ years now, at a university, and experience is indeed the best teacher so more power to ya!
Hey, dude, just try some festivals in Romania, they're great, and I am confident they'll accept your movies. There is like Transylvania International Film Festival (yeah, TIFF :)), but much better name), Clujshorts International Short Film Festival, Comedy Cluj International Festival (biggest comedy film festival in Europe), American Independent Film Festival. Side note: TIFF from Romania is great because your screening will appear in several Romanian cities, it is the biggest festival in Romania, and the reason it's the biggest, it's because it's like a caravan festival, so it will go from city to city, the main city being Cluj-Napoca. PS: If ever interested in a horror film festival, just take a look at Full Moon Festival, which is literally a couple of miles away from one of Dracula's domains. Also, you should try the other TIFF from Europe, which is the Tromso International Film Festival, maybe you get the chance to project your movie at the oldest theatre in Europe still running.
I love you chris. You’re a genuine inspiration. I’m in the shit making phase of my career, 19 and in my first year of film school - getting excited about all of the scripts I write and then having them turn out mediocre to terrible. One day though, I will make something good. I know it. You sprouted my love for film when I was 13 years old and I haven’t looked back since.
Hey Chris. I’ve been a regular fan of your reviews since 2015. So to see you just beginning to get your feet under you in your directorial career is really encouraging and inspiring. And to get your short film into theaters has to be a dream come true! I was gonna say I see bigger things in the future (and I do) but savor this. Imagine what that kid making those Indiana Jones videos would think if he saw just a 3 second montage of his future? Keep going man. I look forward to seeing what you’ll accomplish. Just don’t forget that kid..
Hey Chris, I was wondering if you could do a Movie Review on the Movie "Tag(2018)". Congrats on getting your short film out. I really enjoy your passion for movies.
Chris, I've watched the trailers to your shorts. You're doing a pretty good job, man. The fact that you're trying to help out local filmmakers is even more of a noble cause. Continue to do what you do. The film world needs more people like you. PS: Send us some links to the short films of local festivals. Greatly appreciated.
Hey Chris, I only have one more year of college working towards my dream of becoming a game developer. It’s really cool to see your journey and to see how hard you are working. I’m coming up to the same kind of point where I need to start making my portfolio of games, so I’m kind of in the same boat as you are (just at a lower level). Good luck with everything you’re working on and have a good one 🤙🏼
Congratulations Chris these reviews have inspired me to take a deeper look into movies and see movies and appreciate them for what they are and also being some kid in a small town in Ohio it is so inspiring to see you succeed and I hope things only get better for you man
Hey man you got to keep going. I've had plans of making small films but everyone usually leaves my project. But then there was a festival in my area and I spent countless hours on a script and characters. Unfortunately the film was rejected as well. But that won't make me give up and will continue making these films. So don't ever give up on what you love doing!
I really am thankful that you have made videos talking about your process of making films. It has really inspired me to chase my goal. I really felt it when you said that sometimes you feel there is a roadblock holding you back and that sometimes there's nothing holding you back. I have never done any type of film, other than a small stop motion short I had to make for an art class, so I want to get the ball rolling. I make music as well, so I think making videos for my music would be a good start. I have written a couple of scripts but I have tons of ideas. Maybe I can start fleshing out all my ideas I have or just at least get something written down to make it more official. I am so grateful for this 2 month trial to skillshare. I signed up and cannot wait to learn more about filmmaking. Chris, you are seriously one of my biggest inspirations as a person. You have made me view films in a way I don't think would've been possible without your videos. I will always be a fan of yours and hope to see you succeed even further as you age. Cheers man, can't wait to see your journey unfold and mine as well
Happy Birthday slugger!
cool
so neally another birthday yeah 😁😂🤣😂🤣
John, I want you to know I haven't worn pants all quarantine long. Take care.
@@meatball5336 wtf
@@legacyrxt7570 I'm not sure what you mean friend
You have no idea how happy I am for you chris, all of us Stuckmannizers are so proud😉👍
We certainly are!!!
Absolutely
Truly!
I started making films in 2014 when I first began studying it at a local technical college. I barely had any money for festivals when I first submitted a film in 2015 and I didn't get into anything and I felt like I'd wasted all my money on a film that meant a lot to me but was weird and suffered technically. My first feature film in 2017 also failed to get into a single festival, it was very disheartening. Somehow always hoped it'd be a surprise no budget hit like Nolan's Following and launch my career, which I now realize is probably a lot more competitive these days.
But finally it has started to happen with my short films. Got a few festival selections for the newest film on my channel, Coffee, and my latest one, One Up, has got 6 selections so far and a few awards! I think part of the issue was straight quality, but the other part was marketability. Short comedy under 10 minutes is honestly a pretty popular format. I'm just excited to finally be getting some success!
Congratulations on hard work and dedication. Never stop achieving your goals
I'm really glad you found your lane! I hope you do well.
Believe it or not, Following was rejected by Sundance. It was accepted into Slamdance though. So even Nolan was initially rejected by one of the biggest festivals out there.
As a scientist, your experience with rejection really resonated with me. Submitting my papers to peer-reviewed journals, I deal with rejection a lot. After working on a project for years, it can be hard not to take it personally. But indeed, often times, it's because it doesn't fit well enough within the scope of the journal. You just have to keep going and keep learning. :)
Can you do reviews for all Quentin Torantino' Movies, before "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood..."? And thanks for all your videos, hope you do many short and feature films.
It will be good to review all Torantino's movies.
And Scorsese for the Irishman.
I really admire Stephen speilborg and david lunch.
@@nolancho What about Christopher Nalon?
Would love to see something about
Alfred Hitlock
Peta Jackson
Christopher Nilon
Frank Dareablond
James Comealong
The Watchoutshit -Brothers- Sisters
James Fangold
Guillermo de la Vaca
Josh OnWeed
Catherine Bigallow
Alfonso Huevón
David Bleach
Luke Guesson
David Hates
Awesome Welles
Francis Ford Copula
Steven Soberberg
Ron Howhard
Tim Carton
Oliver Stoned
Ridof Scott
Clint Easywood
Stanley Cuberick
and
Chris Fuckmann
As a novelist myself, I was shocked at how many times all that you said applied to writing as well. Rejection is built into the process and it hurts. What you do is inspiring and helpful I think to creatives in virtually every field who want to get success. Thanks Chris
This is awesome to see! Keep it up Chris as always!
After watching this video, I can genuinely say - you are going to make it. With that drive, insight and work ethic, it's a matter of time before you make whatever film you'd like. Many people have pipe dreams, but don't have the tenacity to bring them to life - you do. Keep it up 👍
So.... I'm in india rn... And things are hitting the fan. Unemployment at its highest. And I feel like absolute poop. And this really really lifted me up and put me back in my shoes to wanna work. Thank you Chris. Please let us onto your life more man
I honestly love videos like this! We hear so much stories of filmmakers giving up because it's too hard, they're not making enough money to fund films so they become content with their day jobs and "unrealistic dreams". It can make any filmmaker a bit paranoid and depressed. Chris your drive to keep pushing forward to make your dreams a reality even though you have had it hard just like the rest of us is what we need more of in this community. Less pessimism and more pure ambition and drive Hope the best for you!
I hope it hits in North Carolina. Congratulations! Maybe you'll be rubbing elbows with Spielburg, Lucas, Soninfield, Bay. Who knows? Keep it up man. I'm in a wheelchair and watching your content always cheers me up. You're my inspiration.
What part of NC you from?
Randleman.
The Repster - Movie Reviewer Chris’s movie will be in North Carolina?
The Repster - Movie Reviewer Hm never heard of it. I’m from the Wilmington area.
It’s honestly a joy seeing you happy pursuing your dreams. A lot of people seem to be pointing out your lack of enthusiasm during your reviews but I think it’s obvious that you’re just busy now with putting your passion with what you originally wanted to spend your life doing. I love you Chris please never change!
Great video. Love hearing your journey with filmmaking.
Thanks
I'm not a filmmaker but the around the end you talked about beating yourself into not wanting to be creative and making shit before you actually make something good, and writing songs are the same way. Thank for the inspiration Chris keep it up!
As a writer, you face rejections all the time. It is something you learn early on. Sometimes it is luck. Sometimes it is time and place.
You're very right Chris. The film industry can be very strange today, but it always has been. But the way I look at it, as long as someone is creative, passionate, loves what they do and can bring so much to the table that's all that matters. I know you have been doing this for a long time and will do really well. I'm very proud of you. Keep up the good work.
always remember:
failure is success in progress
Chris I met you in California in 2017 , you are a great guy . I have been a aspiring filmmaker my whole life and now I finally have a feature length experimental ( shot entirely on IPhone film releasing the end of this year , I owe a lot to you because you inspired me along the way . So thank you. I’m excited to see you do more . And I have been rejected by people before with past shorts and I know the feeling .
you are gonna make it dude you got that film passion we need real directors that have heart
Chris, thanks so much for taking the time to ease our nerves and fire us up. Ive been out of school for years and fallen away from my dream of creative writing for my job. Thanks for giving perspective and making the struggle and the goal appear attainable and worth pursuing to search for in spite of persistent perfectionist fears
Even with all of the rejection from the festivals, Chris still tries, because he will do no matter what it takes to achieve his dream. And that right there, is inspiring
I think the hardest part for me is that I always shut myself down and don't allow myself to write. I think you are right, we just have to go for it. Going to start tonight and start writing. Thanks Chris, I appreciate the encouragement and seeing your story unfold!
I’ve always loved film but Chris made me love filmmaking. Keep up the great work!
Cant wait for shelby oaks. Thank you for making this video, this hit hard. Never stop chasing your goals!
This video couldn't have come at a better time, thanks Chris for showing us your journey, it means a lot to me and your fans. Keep it up dude!
Really appreciate what you say about making shit before the good stuff comes. As a songwriter, this was so true when I first started, and I tell my aspiring songwriter students all. the. time.: you have to make the crap and don't stop, if you want to ever make something worth paying attention to. Cheers Chris, been watching you for a while and my trust in your artistic integrity only increases.
I have a good feeling you won't be showing the film here at the Calgary International Film Festival, but I'm not expecting it. I've been watching you since your collab review on Elysium with Pretty Much It, and I'm glad to hear you're doing well, that you're doing it. I'm 22 and your last video really inspired me to get out there like you and just make things. I recently offered to make a music video for a local artist that unfortunately I don't think I will ever hear from again. And it sucked. And I was about give up until I saw this. So thank you for uploading this today, it was really inspiring. I look forward to hearing more, and from hopefully seeing more of what you've made. Keep at it man.
Hey Bro, I'm from Calgary and I'm in post production for a short rn. I'm hoping it will play somewhere in calgs :)
As a person who made a couple music videos for an anime convention I'll be attending shortly, this really spoke to me. My goal was to be selected as a finalist so that it would be shown to a voting audience and have a chance at winning the contest but sadly I wasn't picked. Dealing with that failure was legitimately rough for a bit but thankfully I have friends who support me and I decided to keep pushing and make more stuff and to improve. It was nice and comforting to hear you talk about that same kind of thing and how you overcame it and so on. Cheers to you, Chris! You're awesome, keep up the good work.
Thank you for sharing, Chris. So insightful with a lot of "yep! Me too" moments that help reaffirm what I knew was true and has deepened my understanding of what I have yet to learn. Spot on! I wish all the well deserved success to you and your team :)
You’re a good one Chris. As a fellow artist dealing with rejection and self doubt always seem to be the toughest road blocks. Love this series
I joined a film class this year and let me tell you. Even though I don’t know you personally, I have been a long time fan of your channel and I’ve carried what I’ve learned from you throughout this years project.
My group chose to tackle an animation project and boy am I nervous about showing this film to an audience. I’m just glad to hear about your experience as it makes me feel a little more relax.
My festival is coming up soon so yeah haha
I was lucky enough to see Notes From Melanie this past weekend at the AZ International Film Festival; I thought it was great! Very much worth the 2 hr drive and I must say, it stood out amongst the other shorts. I’m real happy to see your dreams become a reality, Chris.
I saw it in Cleveland at the festival Chris mentioned, and I completely agree. So well done and funny.
Chris: working my ass off, reviewing movies, writing scripts, directing shorts.
John: feeling cute, might watch Over The Top later, idk
Chris, I just wanted to thank you for inspiring me. My dream is to be in LA and directing films for the rest of my life. I feel very trapped right now. I live in Alabama. I am not from the south, I’m just down here because my dad was stationed here. I adore film and the art of filmmaking and you are just so inspiring. Keep working man. I can’t wait for the day when you get that feature made and I can finally see one of your films. You’ve helped me through some really hard times. I just wanted to tell you that. I’m still in high school and I’m trying to get my name out there. I’m currently in the writing process for my first short that’s going to be in a festival. It’s very difficult. I’ve made other shorts, but nothing to this level. You are the most inspiring person i know. Also remember the movie Whiplash? Yeah, that’s kind of my situation accept on a much less crazy ass J K Simmons level and practicing till my hands bleed level. Nobody. And I mean NOBODY, is accepting my love of film right now. You’re the one who motivates me to not give up and to keep on making films. THANK YOU.
Thanks for making this, Chris. You’re such a great man.
Hes not a great man. Hes a stuck man.
Damn, I needed this video today. Chris, you’re the man. As a fan of your channel for a few years, I appreciate seeing another film lover taking on actual filmmaking. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do. I’m 31 and happy to report that I finally decided to take the leap and start making shorts. My first shirt I made this year is Wolverine fan film I made on my channel.
I’m currently writing my second short. And I have dreams to make a feature someday, but I gotta start small first. And your video today gave me a good boost. THANK YOU 🙏🏼
Congrats my man, so happy for you and all involved in making your film.
There's always two options 1. Sometimes just jumping in without everything planned out, works out even if it feels like holding your breath and your tummy feels weird. 2. But if you don't try nothing gets accomplished and you just keep beating yourself up. I'm glad to see that you finally jumped, so now that your on your way never give up. 😊
Wishing you the best of luck
Your a big inspiration to me Chris! Without you, I wouldn’t be as passionate about film as I am today. I wanted to be a film director but once i started viewing your videos, I became passionate about film and want to become one of the greatest film directors and started viewing film as art like you. I want to say thank you for everything you’ve done towards me and I hope someday I can work with you on a film
You are such an inspiration to people like me. People who love writting scripts and preparing roles and gosh youve helped me more than you know. Thank you Chris. Thank you.
It's interesting and helpful to see you talking about rejection in this way. I don't really see it talked much in this calibre and I think it's important to know how to navigate it and learn from it to be better. This was a really helpful insight into how your process is still going. Keep the momentum going Chris, hope to catch one of your shorts in the UK soon!
Thank you Chris! I find these videos so useful, this is my favourite series of yours. Keep it up! Can’t wait to see your shorts
I spent 16yrs in Hollywood working with studios and some A list directors and writters and produced a few features. It was my life and passion. I moved to TX which has a HUGE independent market here and opened my own studio and even though its sometimes brutally hard its also the best feeling in the world, very inspiring and I wouldn't give it up for anything.
This is really good! It's an inspiration source for an aspiring film student like myself!
Congratulations on how far you've come! As for rejections...I think that just goes with any goal you try to achieve. Rejection hurts yes (that's only human) but you can't let it discourage you! I think it's good that most of the time you can get feedback as to why. Stay positive & keep working toward your dream. Wishing you the best of luck!
Submit your film to the New Zealand International Film Festival bro
chris doesnt read comments sigh
YES PLEASE!!!!!!
OMG YES!
Hey chris im a filmmaker in brazil and man i Love this video! Been rejected in festivals is a very crazy moment in a filmmaker's life! Its crazy but everthing comes in the right time. Today my short filme the hidden verdict was seletionated for a international festival and im very happy!! I am very inspired by you, keep going, that i will keep from here!
Congrats man, it's been an incredible journey
I really love this series, Chris. I hope you keep making these for a while because they're really helpful for aspiring writer-directors like myself in my own journey towards filmmaking. Hearing you talk about self-doubt resonates with me right now because while I can get things done, I always feel this lack of motivation to get things moving and a lot of the time it comes from me creating this obstacle in my head that's not really stopping me. Hearing a fellow creator like yourself admit that you have those same problems is such a great confidence booster, and I am rooting for your films to be very successful in the near and distant future. Keep up the good work brother.
Wish your film was in San Francisco! Keep it up tho Chris.
Erectile asshole
Wow Chris, glad to hear that things have been going well with you and your career. Just keep at it man, ur gonna go places. I’m actually kind of inspired by these updates and ur story, because I’m currently trying to figure out a way to pursue a career in film. I have time to figure things out, and I have a lot to learn, but this has helped.
I am so proud of you man this is a truly amazing accomplishment love it
I've been a silent subscriber for a long time, and I just wanted to let you know this really inspired me. I love music, have always wanted to write songs and sing, but never felt good enough. When you spoke about ourselves being the biggest stumbling block that really got to me. Thanks for sharing.
Happy for you man! It’s cool knowing you’re in Ohio , im in mentor about 25 min from Cleveland. Always cool that one of the best channels is somewhat nearby!
Ohio best state
Thanks for this , Chris. My sister and I are in the learning process of filmmaking, and it's great to get a reality check that is also encouraging. We're hoping we get to see your film.
Thank you for being such an inspiration for me and many other inspiring film makers. Thank you for sharing your story with us and we cannot wait to see your success on the big screen. Put Ohio on the map Babyyyy!
Chris,
I’ve been following you since I was 10 years old (I’m 19 now) and I could not be happier for you. As a visual artist/musician I can definitely relate to a lot of the things you have to say about rejection. It hurts for a bit but there’s nothing one should do but get up and try again! Your passion and love for film has only amplified my desire to pursue what I love over the years. Thank you for being such an amazing role model for me and everyone else who looks up to you! I can’t wait to see your short film and am excited for future projects!
Wonderful attitude as always, with practical advice to boot. Thanks for sharing!
HS a sponsored kiss ass. Figure it out.
It's somewhat comforting to hear about similar rejection struggles from fellow filmmakers, especially from you... someone I've been watching for years and taken a great deal of inspiration from. I shot a short film last summer and spent the last year of my life obsessing over it and finishing it in post. I know it's good enough, and I really believe it has a powerful message. It is 30 minutes long and I'm an unknown filmmaker, and I have submitted to late deadlines, so I do understand the circumstances of rejection that don't have to do with its quality. I've been getting mostly positive feedback from people who've seen it, and I really believe it's great. I've been submitting to a lot of festivals, and some really big tier 1 festivals, but so far... no luck. I hope it gets there, and I believe it will, and this video certainly helped. I really hope you do well with your luck in the future, and I'd like to see some of your work. Stay posted.
Love this segment!
Keep up the great work, Chris :)
It's awesome seeing you're journey, Chris. I think that part about getting to work and not just waiting for your dream to materialize on its own one day rings especially true. I feel like I've always had ideas for stories I wanted to write, shorts I wanted to film, and various other creative projects I've wanted to eventually pursue but, like you, I didn't really hit that point of "eff it, let's get to work and make it happen" until I was almost 30. I'm still pretty early in my journey but I can certainly say I've come miles further over the past two years than I did the previous 10. Keep it up, man. I look forward to seeing your shorts sometime!
I love your honesty, keep up the great work homeslice!
What a great video Chris! Happy birthday man, keep being the honest, genuine movie reviewer you are (one of the few tbh) and good luck on all your future movie making endeavours! You are an amazing guy, for real. Congrats on the Hollywood Comedy Shorts and all the other film festivals that have accepted your film!
Im so proud of you!!!!!! Please keep going and chase ur dreams❤️❤️
No bells and whistles, just your words about your filmmaking experience, and it is hands-down the most inspiring video about filmmaking I've seen in a while. Thanks man. I needed this.
We love inspiring videos, so thank you for finally releasing your journey! :D
Thank you for that, Chris! I really hope the best for your filmmaking career. As a young filmmaker, I don't seem to know so much about it. These videos both teach me and inspire me to do better. Thanks to you I can really have a chance down the road hopefully. I have a TON of work to get up there but you've shown me a lot of things that will help me down the road. I've wanted to be a filmmaker since I was 11 and haven't let go of that ever since. Thank you so much for helping me and inspiring me. It means a lot. I hope the best for you and good luck!
Let’s gooo I live an hour and 1/2 away from from Hollywood, definitely gonna go check out Notes from Melody!👍🏼
So proud of you. Been watching your channel for years. To see the success this film has gotten is nothing short of breathtaking, emotional, and inspiring. I look forward to seeing the future.
Happy Birthweek, Chris. And a very merry Personal New Year's Day. And keep up the good creative work and spirit.
Chris you inspired me to push myself, do more art, recently assembled a small team of friends to make a little animated short, thank you so much for staying so strong and being such a positive and determined character!
Chris looks like a completely different person with glasses
It's crazy to see how much Chris has matured from his earlier episodes to now. Shows how much he has grown and learned.
Yo Chris. great video. i was wondering. how can we see your shorts films if we are not in america? keep up the hard work dude. big fan.
Great video. The bit about creative people constantly defeating themselves at 12:40 really hit me. I needed those words as a reassurance you can do what you love by putting your mind to it.
Hey Chris! Double check to see if it’s playing in the actual main theatre (which is IMAX btw) or if it’s playing in the other small theaters above the main theatre...
It's definitely playing in the smaller rooms upstairs. That is where the theater typically hosts their events/festival screenings. The Imax auditorium is usually always booked for the main A list movies that are currently playing. Still pretty amazing feat to accomplish though!
I had a feature film that was premiering at ScreamFest and thought it was gonna be shown at the Chinese Theatre. But it was in the smaller theatres above. Kinda cool but also a little disappointing at the same time.
You have no idea how much i needed this video right now,
thanks for another inspirational video Chris. You deserve all the success in the world.
This is my favorite content of yours Chris! Please do more, more often.
Chris you couldn't have uploaded this at a more perfect time. I'm going through some issues similar to yours right now, and this is really encouraging. Thank you so much, this made my day.
Wish I could've seen Notes from Melanie at CIFF, but I'll do my best to get down to Canton. Keep going, Chris!
Keep the faith and keep sharing your journey. I sold life insurance so I too know about rejection. I've been a prof for 30+ years now, at a university, and experience is indeed the best teacher so more power to ya!
Hey, dude, just try some festivals in Romania, they're great, and I am confident they'll accept your movies. There is like Transylvania International Film Festival (yeah, TIFF :)), but much better name), Clujshorts International Short Film Festival, Comedy Cluj International Festival (biggest comedy film festival in Europe), American Independent Film Festival.
Side note: TIFF from Romania is great because your screening will appear in several Romanian cities, it is the biggest festival in Romania, and the reason it's the biggest, it's because it's like a caravan festival, so it will go from city to city, the main city being Cluj-Napoca.
PS: If ever interested in a horror film festival, just take a look at Full Moon Festival, which is literally a couple of miles away from one of Dracula's domains. Also, you should try the other TIFF from Europe, which is the Tromso International Film Festival, maybe you get the chance to project your movie at the oldest theatre in Europe still running.
I love you chris. You’re a genuine inspiration. I’m in the shit making phase of my career, 19 and in my first year of film school - getting excited about all of the scripts I write and then having them turn out mediocre to terrible. One day though, I will make something good. I know it. You sprouted my love for film when I was 13 years old and I haven’t looked back since.
First of all, congrats,
Second, I really want to see it
Third, when will you make a review about Akira?!
Hey Chris. I’ve been a regular fan of your reviews since 2015. So to see you just beginning to get your feet under you in your directorial career is really encouraging and inspiring. And to get your short film into theaters has to be a dream come true! I was gonna say I see bigger things in the future (and I do) but savor this. Imagine what that kid making those Indiana Jones videos would think if he saw just a 3 second montage of his future?
Keep going man. I look forward to seeing what you’ll accomplish. Just don’t forget that kid..
So happy for you, sir; keep up that work ethic! Thank you for the time to share your journey. Much love from SoCal. Side note: ADORE the glasses ;)
Its so nice that you take the time to assure upcoming filmmakers in this way.
You inspire me chris !! Love from india...i too wanna make movies !! 😊
I'm right now working on my own short film and man I just must thank you for all the inspiration and motivation that you give!
Hey Chris, I was wondering if you could do a Movie Review on the Movie "Tag(2018)". Congrats on getting your short film out. I really enjoy your passion for movies.
Chris, I've watched the trailers to your shorts. You're doing a pretty good job, man. The fact that you're trying to help out local filmmakers is even more of a noble cause. Continue to do what you do. The film world needs more people like you. PS: Send us some links to the short films of local festivals. Greatly appreciated.
I'm a huge fan of your channel. Keep up the good work
Hey Chris, I only have one more year of college working towards my dream of becoming a game developer. It’s really cool to see your journey and to see how hard you are working. I’m coming up to the same kind of point where I need to start making my portfolio of games, so I’m kind of in the same boat as you are (just at a lower level). Good luck with everything you’re working on and have a good one 🤙🏼
Holy shit. This video brought me back to the college application process. Best of luck - it really is just luck sometimes.
Congratulations Chris these reviews have inspired me to take a deeper look into movies and see movies and appreciate them for what they are and also being some kid in a small town in Ohio it is so inspiring to see you succeed and I hope things only get better for you man
Hit up the Alexander Valley Film Festival in Northern California pls.
Hey man you got to keep going. I've had plans of making small films but everyone usually leaves my project. But then there was a festival in my area and I spent countless hours on a script and characters. Unfortunately the film was rejected as well. But that won't make me give up and will continue making these films. So don't ever give up on what you love doing!
Do you know if you happened to send it to the Miami Short Film Festival? My friends and I would go see it, probably not a school day though.
I really am thankful that you have made videos talking about your process of making films. It has really inspired me to chase my goal. I really felt it when you said that sometimes you feel there is a roadblock holding you back and that sometimes there's nothing holding you back. I have never done any type of film, other than a small stop motion short I had to make for an art class, so I want to get the ball rolling. I make music as well, so I think making videos for my music would be a good start. I have written a couple of scripts but I have tons of ideas. Maybe I can start fleshing out all my ideas I have or just at least get something written down to make it more official. I am so grateful for this 2 month trial to skillshare. I signed up and cannot wait to learn more about filmmaking. Chris, you are seriously one of my biggest inspirations as a person. You have made me view films in a way I don't think would've been possible without your videos. I will always be a fan of yours and hope to see you succeed even further as you age. Cheers man, can't wait to see your journey unfold and mine as well