Filmmaking – A Beginning

I finally got around to ordering a long soughtafter book from my Amazon Wishlist this week, the “Raindance Producers Guide to Lo-to-No Budget Filmmaking“. It’s a handy guide to everything a buddying filmmaker should know and tells you everything from film basics to scheduling, budgeting and marketing. My most favorite parts are about the top three reasons for not making a film. Or put in other words, the top three excuses for why most wannabe filmmakers never make movies. I currently count myself very much amongst them because I (a) don’t have enough money, (b) no independent transport and most of all (c) no equipment.

All of this I realise now is silly. You can create great stuff for (almost) no money at all. Transport can be arranged, although it might involve convincing your Mum or friends to give you a lift. Equipment can be hired or utilised through friends. So there are no excuses and afterall I want to get my ideas on tape and not “write the theme tune, sing the theme tune” to speak with a famous Little Britain character.

So what’s the most important thing a filmmaker needs? That’s right, a story to tell. Or more precisely a script or at least screenplay. As I’ve learned so far from reading the book, I need a budget and/or opportunities for locations, crew and equipment to look for a suitable script. So what do I have to offer a person with a fantastic script that wants filming exposure?

I have a little money, and that’s about it right now. Once my loan comes through and I’ve moved to Hannover I will have more of it and my own camera equipment and transport. Also I will have more direct access to my dear old friends. Wait, I can film (although my skills may be a little rustic), I can edit using Final Cut Pro or Avid (or Premiere for that matter) and I have a PowerBook. I can create and host websites and content (i.e. videos) and have keen Internet marketing skills. Not much though – yet.

The first step I shall take is to seek out similarly minded people in or around Hannover and start getting to back into the fray, offering what skills I have for the greater good of the film making community around me (have skills, will travel – for free).

So, if you happen to be in Northern Germany and are looking for a helping hand with your project – gimme a bell or drop me a mail to get in touch and see what I can do for you. I’d be happy to help and make a darn good of coffee

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