I'm just now starting production on my first narrative film. I graduated from the University of Memphis (TN) in '95 with a degree in Film/Video Production, but I ended up just working in broadcast TV, and now Web design. I was in class with Craig Brewer, who has gone on to make films (The Poor and the Hungry, Hustle & Flow, and Black Snake Moan). I realized that I wasted those years after college.

So, I'm just going to go shoot a film. That's the best way to learn. I still remember a lot of the lighting and audio techniques I used shooting ENG/EFP video, so I hope that helps.

My film is called "Legion", and is a cliched piece of sci-fi/horror. This film will serve as practice for pacing and tight editing.

I've written a script, assembled a cast, done several test shots, and pre-vized most of the effects shots. All the equipment is in place (we're shooting in HD, 1080/24p), and the post-pro system is set up. My rough poster design is done and I just set up my production blog to keep a diary of the shoot.

Legion Production Blog

Unfortunately, I'm starting to have that feeling of dread. I have this fear that my lighting will be horrible, I won't be able to direct my actors well, and that I'll end up with nothing but an embarrassing piece of garbage. But that's not stopping me. I'm just going to go do it. If it stinks, I'll try again.

After seeing films here like "The Lifeguard" by Ben Winter, I know I have my work cut out for me. That was one of the best student films I've seen. Simply amazing.

Hope to get some criticism from everyone here as I progress.

The poster looks VERY cool. Like Close encounters of the 3rd kind meets Halo.

I have no idea where I came up with that comparison.

What's you're budget? What equipment are you using? I'm really intrigued now. Tell us more!

And I agree. Hell, just go for it. Good or not, you'll learn and get better. Legion 2 will be amazing (haha)!!

Oh, I just found the equipment list on your site.

I not sure why, I just really like your concept poster. Here's to hoping all goes well.

One of my actors does look a little bit like the Flood, so maybe I could make this a Halo movie! heheh

My budget is $2000, half of which was spent on the camera. I'm using friends and family for my actors, though I may have to hire an actor for the main male lead. That will pretty much use every penny.

The film is your typical alien invasion scenario, but it will just focus on a married couple and how they deal with the attack. The stage will be be set via radio and TV broadcasts. Yeah, it sounds a bit like "Signs", but will be a bit more violent. I gotta see how well I can shoot and edit a fight scene.

Thanks for the comments.

Voodoo, best luck to you. I love that you're doing it on such a small budget. Since you're working in a genre, maybe this will interest you:

The very first version of Ju-on (even before the first film version) was shot on video for Japanese television. It's a great example of how good movies are made by good directors, not fancy equipment. Parts of it are a lot more effective than the bigger budget versions. I found it really inspiring.

Anyway, good luck.