September 17, 2013

• The Film Hat

  A few years ago, I joined up with a start-up film company in Philadelphia. To call it a company would be most generous because they weren't all that put together just yet, but the potential was there. Other than a short film, nothing major ever came of the collaboration. The guy that set it all up either got cold feet or he wasn't satisfied with the finished product. It's a little sad, but it wasn't a complete waste. I met some cool people and they're pretty much my contacts, concerning their particular skill set. I met a costume/wardrobe specialist, a "Jane of all trades" filmmaker, and a production coordinator. Networking is the shit, children.

  I figured, since the whole thing is over, there should still be a film presence in Philly. Just because the company was abandoned doesn't mean everyone can't collaborate on something else. A few months ago, I decided to contact the production coordinator via LinkedIn. For some weird reason, she was dismissive and didn't want to learn more about my ideas and scripts. I'm still a bit disappointed by that, but the best thing to do is move on.

  Film is one big collaboration. No matter how indy I try to make something---no matter how DIY I want it to be, I fall short. The biggest reason for that is, well...  I want it to look good. There has to be some quality to it, otherwise, I'm wasting my fuckin' time. What's the point in doing anything if you're not striving to be good? Film needs funding, producers, artist, directors, actors, and too many other things to name. That's something one guy can't do alone.

  So, I've come to the realization that I need to double my efforts in networking. As much as I bitch and complain about not being in California, Philly has a lot of potential. It's still an untapped resource. Someone needs to tap that ass and it might as well be me. Heh.

  I'm hoping to round up folks from the previous movie from a few years back. I think a major production company in Philadelphia is possible. The potential is here, but we need somebody at the helm that's made of sterner stuff.  I never really considered myself leadership material, but, in the interest of getting shit done, I'm willing to put on that hat and wear it proudly.

  At the very least, I would like to have a crew set up by this time next year. That's a good deadline when you consider the script, finding talent, locations, and fundraising. It's going to be tough, but I'm confident things will be better this time around.

  • 4:25 am
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