Maybe horror is your way in…
Even though everybody keeps on saying that the current popularity of horror movies is on the wane - it might still be a genre to consider for your next indie project, as either writer or director. Last week, while engaging with several industry folks, they all seemed to be asking me “did I have a low-budget horror script for them?” On reflection, lots of people I know remain heavily involved in the genre and are making new monster or slasher pics.
John Gulager of Project Greenlight fame has just started prep on FEAST TWO and THREE in Shreveport, Louisiana. A friend who formerly worked at Franchise is rumored to be putting together a series of horror flicks under the banner Marylin Manson Presents and let’s not forget Rob Zombie’s rather successful remake of Halloween which made bank at the box office, earlier this month. Even in IFC’s rather tawdry THE BUSINESS - the gang win an Independent Spirit Award for their picture called HOUSE OF FEAR.
Remember, like comedy, as long as your horror project creates a visceral response - there are no real rules to it. You don’t actually need much cash or even production value, just something off-beat that is loaded with chills and thrills. I am waiting for somebody to create a Mumblecore horror movie. Yes - a very ‘New Yorky’ and naturalistic look at either murder, madness or mayhem. The new HDV cameras like the Canon XH-A1 or the Sony HVR-V1U are also perfect for low light and close quarter shooting - not a bad option for the fledgeling thrill-meister.
Meanwhile - while you chew on what horror indie to write or direct, you might check out San Francisco’s SHOCK IT TO ME CLASSIC HORROR FESTIVAL which runs at the Castro Theater October 5th thru 7th. Live guests include the legendary JOE DANTE.
Even though it’s off topic, I wanted to treat you to a clip from Matt Mahurin’s terrific New York documentary about a diner/restaurant called I LIKE KILLING FLIES… I managed to catch this doc on The Sundance Channel last night. It’s a must see…
October 8th, 2007 at 11:57 am
[...] and movies are NEVER finished… by trevor miller Much the same as painting or creating any work of art, your script or your movie will never be finished to your sense of perfection. There will be things [...]
April 28th, 2009 at 4:13 am
Not bad. Thanks for this post! That really got me thinking.