GREATNESS: WHY GOOD ISN’T GOOD ENOUGH
Committed to rising above and beyond in filmmaking? Here's a must-read that gives proper perspective on the subject.
FILM SCHOOL IN TWO PARTS
While the title might seem an over-simplification, here's nearly a hour long documentary on the making of Matchstick Men with Nicolas Cage. In my estimation it's required viewing for anyone seeking to understand the complete process of filmmaking.
Follow renowned director Ridley Scott from pre-production, to casting, location scouting, costuming, and production.
This is a gem of an upload, well worth saving to your drive. I have.
Part 1
Part 2
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A CAMERA ASSISTANT’S TOOLKIT
If you're wondering what's in the AC's bag, here's a great article by Evan at The Black and Blue.
IT’S A WRAP! VIDEO CABLES
Pretty funky production, but the info's good.
WHO DOES WHAT ON A FILM SET?
Follow the Nerdwriter as he takes you on a tour around an independent film set, describing the parts everyone plays in creating a film.
“THE NEW T-SHIRTS ARE HERE! THE NEW T-SHIRTS ARE HERE!”
Several months ago, Scott Eggleston at The Frugal Filmmaker — one of the most well-known DIY film gear guys online, with thousands of subscribers worldwide — decided to produce t-shirts. Not having a logo, he put it out for anyone in his fan base to create one. He was either going to hold a vote or choose one himself. Ultimately he decided to use three different logos for his shirts. Mine was one of the winning designs.
Later, Scott mentioned producing bumper/gear stickers, saying one of the designs lends itself nicely to that, given its wide format. I see on the pre-order that stickers of my design are being offered as well. And while that's not exactly rock star status it's still pretty cool.
"This is the kind of spontaneous publicity, your logo on stickers and shirts, that makes people!"
Help support Scott's mission and share your love of independent, frugal filmmaking. Pre-order a shirt. I'll even sign it if you'd like.
Heck, it could become collectible.
SOLID SNORRICAM BUILD
My 1st A.D. and I were just watching this and agreed it's definitely among the best snorricam builds we've seen. Definitely worthy of a post…so here you go.
Courtesy of www.IndyMogul.com Thanks Griffin, nice work!
GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO BE AN INDIE DIRECTOR?
Directing low budget independent films often calls into play traits and skills outside and apart from being a good director. Working with what you've got (which often isn't much) requires greater flexibility and willingness to adapt.
Here's a good list of some out of the box traits a successful indie director should possess.
RYAN SHECKLER CRUSHES IT IN MANHATTAN
Skaters have always been keen to the power of video and have produced some of the most dynamic work ever. The skill with which they shoot and the style of their edits hardly ever disappoints.
But this takes the art form to an epic level. It's poetry in motion.
Watch as an incredible idea is executed in perfect harmony with a real slick edit. There's some serious skill at work here, both on the decks and in the suite.
THE ART OF STORYBOARDING
Here's an in depth video on storyboarding featuring Ridley Scott, director of such films as Alien, Blade Runner, Thelma & Louise, Black Hawk Down, Gladiator, Prometheus, and the now iconic 1984 Apple Macintosh commercial.
For those who'd like more — much more — the article also includes an hour long video of a storyboard-to-picture sequence for the film American Beauty, with Sam Mendes and the late Conrad ("Connie") L. Hall providing commentary.
