Comments on: 10 Really Bad Ideas About Making Movies

By: MIchael Gonzales, Ph.D.

MIchael Gonzales, Ph.D. — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Your 10 REALLY BAD IDEAS ABOUT MAKING MOVIES remind me of the process of change I went through in having to learn these lessons the hard way. When I taught at USC film school, Jeffrey Katzenberg was a guest and he made it clear–there are many doors into Hollywood, however it is up to you to find that door that opens and once it does, keep your foot in it so it doesn't close all the way. Make your way to the next inner door. It may sound a little cliché and it may sound a little like Eastern philosophy but what is important is if you have a purpose and your purpose is to make an impact through movies, then search for that way in and trust that God is leading. I have heard so many people say they know so and so, they have an investor, they know an actor, they have the greatest story ever told, or they have the next Passion of the Christ. Start with this–I believe so much in my project that I am making a movie, period! When you have done that one thing, with a script that has gone through the fire of several re-writes and critiques, you will get my respect, and maybe even the attention of those people who will let you tell more great stories theatrically, online, and on TV.

By: Anthony Peterson

Anthony Peterson — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Great stuff. I still remember your advice; write five screenplays then pick the best one.

Then keep writing.

By: Jeff Reid

Jeff Reid — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

BRAVO! Well Said. That's great stuff, man!

By: Cynthia

Cynthia — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

So, I guess you're saying you don't wanna read my screenplay, huh?

Seriously, Phil, thank you for giving us principles that apply in a cross-disciplinary fashion to all media-related endeavors.

By: Mark J.

Mark J. — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Phil,

I think your suggestions are interesting, but as you can guess I disagree with #5. The Playbook has only been used one time and so far it's batting a thousand. We should try it again before we conclude that it doesn't work a second time.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,234264,00.html

By: CVH

CVH — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

I agree with Cynthia's comment, that the principles apply across all media. I'm thinking in particular of the Christian segment of the music business. If the "God told me…", "My church worship team really likes my songs…", "Can you hook me up with Matt Bronleewe?" wannabes understood the nature of the business culture, that the 'Christian' side of the business is essentially no different than the 'secular', they'd run the other way in horror. The consumerist nature of the Christian subculture perpetuates the myth of what success is and how to obtain it. Be real. Learn what the business is about. If you pursue it, be prepared to yield control and stay on the ride until it throws you off or you make it to the end. Above all, make good art. Then make it better. If a commercial avenue intersects your path, weigh the options. But give up the quest for significance and be faithful to the calling where God has you this day.

By: Nate

Nate — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

For anyone who was offended by #6, have you actually tried to write a screenplay? It's tough, man! Really tough.

I attended the Act One month long writer's program last summer, and it was a fantastic introduction to the world of professional writing in Hollywood. Since then, I've been receiving my continuing education for free thanks to my ipod. Go to itunes and search for screenwriting, and you have access to some awesome podcasts. My favorites are "On The Page", "Creative Screenwriting", and "Sam and Jim go to Hollywood". Those three podcasts alone give you a WEALTH of knowledge.

And if you aren't in Hollywood, pray for the Christians who are in the mission field of Hollywood. In many ways they have a tougher mission field than many overseas mission workers.

Great post, Phil!

By: Paul

Paul — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Some of this stuff can be difficult for people to agree with but it's accurate. Not to say that it's impossible to get a major break, be at the right place at the right time, etc; but you cannot rely on these to happen. Be optimistic - but realistic.

Also, I thinks it's important that when taking advice (especially about the film industry), to remember that everyone has a different set of skills, strengths, resources, connections, and experiences that they have to work with. It's up to them to know when an opportunity presents itself and how to take advantage of it.

I especially like the comment that you should network with people on your own level. Many of the successful filmmakers started working together before they had really made names for themselves. However, I will always attempt to meet or introduce myself when appropriate. Just make sure you have something good to say or ask. I find when you are humble, honest, and eager, many people are excited and eager to give you advice and direction.

Phil - Thank you for being a continuous source of wisdom and inspiration. I cannot count the number of times that your words have helped me make successful decisions.

Paul T.

By: Nate

Nate — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

I should mention, btw, that the podcasts I mentioned are totally secular. The language and conversation can sometimes be pretty raw, which shouldn't be a big surprise. But the information they give about the practical side of the craft and business of screenwriting is pretty amazing.

By: Peggy Medberry

Peggy Medberry — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Thank you Phil for your wonderfully blunt wisdom. I know it is sometimes hard for people trying to break into the biz to understand that getting a movie made is NOT just done by pressing a crumpled screenplay into the hands of someone you meet at a conference. I never want to crush anyone's dream but the reality is this business is tough and the people who have scratched and clawed their way to where ever they are are VERY busy still scratching and clawing. I have had many people approach me with projects that God has told them to give to me. Unfortunately He didn't bother to tell me as well. This is a relationship business but that doesn't mean that every relationship will be able to open up THE door that one might need opened. I think if someone really wants to get a movie made then what they need to do is 1. Hone their craft. 2. Get blunt, merciless criticism and dive back in and keep working on that screenplay, etc. 3. Figure out what the market wants by getting up to date with what is going on in the world as well as in television and film. 4. Put a new spin, a fresh twist on what ever that is and then write it. 5. Meet lots of people, pay attention to what they have to say. 6. Be willing to work in all areas of the business no matter how lowly while waiting for your masterpiece to be discovered. 7. Repeat steps 1-6 for at least 10 years. 8. If nothing has happened by year ten repeat steps 1-6 for 10 more years. 9. If you still haven't gotten your career going.... marry someone wealthy. 10. If step nine is not an option go back to school and become a lawyer.