Hi everyone,
I am interested in film...well you know that. However I am bit confused, I've been told the best way to get into motion picture would be to pick up a camcorder and record. But, then again I've been told (and have read) that writing an amazing script is the best way. Now on both accounts I have tried to attempt both. I have been working on a screenplay for quite the while now and I just went a bought a JVC MiniDV. I guess what I am trying to ask is what is the best way to go?

If I knew the answer to that I'd wouldn't be typing this right now. My feeling is that if you want to learn you should just shoot stuff with friends and make your own movies. That's how I learned most of what I've learned now.

If you want to get into "the biz" I heard you have to, HAVE TO, have a great and amazing script. That's my info. I'm kindda curious too. I think you should ask a professional who is in "the biz". See what they have to say about it.

My best advice would be to do anything and everything that you can. Write scripts, read books, try to get involved in your local film community (believe me if theres one in Harrisburg, PA Theres one where you live), try to get interships, or get your friends to help you turn your scripts into movies. A year ago I had no experience and it held me back from getting into the film school of my choice (luckly I'm there now). If theres any advice I would give to someone starting up, especially in high school it's: absorb as much as possible. Even reading this message board will help.

Jonathan Boal
Magnus Caput Productions.

i know many people who have gone to USC film school and are not doing anything. I know many people who have not been to film school but have made amazing films. Basically it's up to you. How much you push yourself. If you have lot's of cash it helps. If you're creative it helps. Film school helps. There's no true answer.

Video-Filmmaker's nailed it. The answer is all of the above. This dosent gurantee youll make it, but it certainly increases your chances.
To impress Hollywood, you do need a great script, or story, or imagery, or cast, or angle, or whatever they think they can sell that week. I will say that a great script wins out more often than not, but many factors apply.

If you want to direct, then start shooting, if you want to write, get writing. If you want to do bopth, get busy. Learn all you can. Do all you can, and never give up. There are millions in this bizz whos names youv never heard, but live very comfortable lives of the wages they make doing what we call a "hobby" If you dedicated, and talented, you will find some form of work in this industry. Good luck.
R. Michael

And you shall know us by the trail of dead.

quote:

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If you want to do both, get busy.

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ha ha... that says it all! Just get buisy... that's really all you need to know at this point.


Learn and be Patient *Everyone's overnigh t success took them ten years to accomplish (TRUE)! Most people hit somewhere in their 30's... so sit tight.


Read, Listen, Write, Shoot do one of those every day and over time you'll begin to grow...

Jayyya

Thanks