How to Direct a Movie
Posted on July 28th, 2009 by RJ
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Do you like sharing your stories visually? Do you wish to express your ideas through cinema? Do have dreams of becoming the next Steven Spielberg or Brillante Mendoza? Then, directing a movie might just be your thing.
If you want to direct your own movie, you need tons of confidence and creativity to make your vision a reality. While it is not easy to penetrate into the mainstream, directing movies for major productions, it is still indeed possible to direct your own movie. Here are some tips on how to get started:
Study film.
To get an edge in the film industry, you need to have some sort of training in the many aspects of movie making. There are many prestigious schools out there specifically in North America such as New York University, the American Film Institute and University of Southern California.
Learn the ropes from your peers and co-workers. You can start off by becoming a production assistant, or an intern on a movie set. Though you’d probably not earn much, you will gain valuable experience and a new set of skills including a network of friends that may help you get ahead in the industry in the future.
You should also attend some acting classes since one of your main tasks will be directing actors. Through this, you will get to understand their work as you step into their shoes.
Be organized.
Once you have gotten an opportunity to direct a film, whether for a class project or for work, go thru the script numerous times to get a visual picture of every needed scene. You can then create storyboards for each shot and scene to help each and every member of the shooting crew.
Gather your team especially the actors involved and let them read the script aloud while exchanging output. The collaboration is crucial for success.
As soon as you’re ready to shoot, you can rehearse the scenes or do the “blocking” where you can guide your actors to specific movements required for the scene.
Directing also entails trust and confidence for the rest of your team such as your actors, technical and creative team. It is recommended that you spend enough time for preproduction and rehearsals with your cast and crew. This will make life easier for everyone when shooting day comes and when you’re in the post-production stage.
Though being a director gives you every right to be in charge, don’t try to control every element. Let your cast members and crew do their jobs too.
Take advantage of the Digital Age.
Making independent films have become easier and cheaper now because of digital technological advancements. Since you have more creative freedom in making your own movies, make as many as you can and join the many film festivals in your country and even all over the world. Success in these indie film festivals will open many doors for you.
There are many other projects available out there such as directing commercials for a product or a music video for a client or even for friends. The key is getting the needed experience and exposure.
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