“High concept.” It’s one of those Hollywood terms without a widely accepted definition. But most filmmakers learn quickly that they need a high concept movie idea to succeed. “Something unexpected” doesn’t quite explain it. “Something unique or original” doesn’t either! “Hook” is another common film term – but what exactly is a hook? Maybe this
Photo by Obi Onyeador from Unsplash Before you worry about camera angles or location permits, you need a strong script. And the core of that screenplay is your main character – AKA your protagonist. But what makes a good protagonist? “Make your main character more likable” is a simplistic note we often hear. It’s easy
The 2021 Oscars are almost here! One of the best things about Oscar season is that we’re treated to Oscar nominee interviews with all the best actors, writers, directors and other film industry professionals. Watching or reading these interviews is a great way to find inspiration and advice for your own filmmaking project. It’s such
We’re artists. We’re hustlers. We’re business people. We’re our own social media and marketing teams. When you’re trying to get your work out there, it feels like there is always something more to do, something else you can research, one more email or message you could send. And many of us have jobs in addition
In recent months, the U.S. has seen an alarming rise in hate crimes against AAPI (Asian American/Pacific Islander) Americans. Parasite director Bong-Joon Ho was asked his opinion on the topic during a recent Zoom interview with Chapman University’s Dodge College in Orange County, California. Living in Korea, Bong-Joon says that he’s a little removed from these
Films are more than a collection of scenes made with high-tech cameras and lighting equipment. They’re designed to make us FEEL. To create atmosphere and feeling in your film, you’ll need a variety of inspiration – whether that’s other films, TV shows, paintings, books, real-life locations, music, fashion, photographs or even items from your own
A filmmaker is a lot like a CEO. No, seriously! You’re in charge of the creative vision of the “company” – aka your film. You’re the one who makes final decisions about what to spend your budget on. You’re in charge of hiring all the department heads beneath you – editing, casting, makeup, etc. If
Want to be a cinematographer? AlterCine just released a new video interview with Bradford Young, one of the hottest cinematographers working today. Young is known for a variety of indie and studio films such as A Most Violent Year, Ain’t Them Bodies Saints, Selma, Arrival and Solo: A Star Wars Story. Along the way, he’s learned some important lessons
The Sundance 2021 Film Festival just wrapped up its virtual festival – but it’s not too late to learn from all the festival’s filmmakers and special guests. The Sundance Institute has posted a wealth of informative and inspiring videos on its YouTube Channel. Everything is completely free! Since we’re all still staying home because of
As content creators, we have a responsibility to be inclusive – but what if we’re not experts on a particular community or experience? The Think Tank for Inclusion & Equity has launched its new Fact Sheets to help. According to the organization’s website, “the factsheets are research-driven one-pagers to help guide writers rooms, writers, and
