Making Indie Films

One of the best pieces of advice I can give to any aspiring filmmaker is to just sit down and watch as many movies as they can. Sure, there’s a lot of time that should be invested in going out there and experimenting with the camera, lights, and actors, but there should also be an equal amount of time spent watching other films. What better way to learn about filmmaking than to sit down with a bag of popcorn and some Skittles and a favorite soft drink and watch the work of other great filmmakers that have come before you?

People say the best way to learn is by doing, but I have to disagree. Sometimes you can only do so much. So another equally effective way to learn is to watch as many films as you can, either indie or big hollywood productions, and analyze them. Take every scene you like, and even those you don’t like, and watch them with a critical eye. Analyze the acting, the lighting, the camera work, everything. Soon you’ll be watching movies like this automatically, and you’ll eventually come to realize how things are done in films.

These films were made and realeased for a reason: because the filmmakers involved know what they’re doing. Use this knowledge to your advantage. You’ll find that watching movies really can be very educational. Plus, if anyone asks why you’re watching so many movies instead of getting a job, you can just tell them you’re doing research. People never question research.

A great indie flick I suggest that anyone should watch at least once is “The Million Dollar Hotel” staring Milla Jovovich, Jeremy Davies, and Mel Gibson. It is certainly a great example of what can be made on a relatively low budget. It also shows how effective great lighting and camera work can be combined with some excellent character writing.