tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55993506642601127752024-03-13T12:17:17.428-07:00The Chimera's LairThe newsletter of Rogue Chimera Films. Subscribe for film festival news, independent film tips, and more. Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-52479930909022720092021-06-01T04:30:00.001-07:002021-06-01T04:30:00.231-07:00Dealing With The Late-Comers<p> </p><div style="text-align: left;">
While you'd think that cast and crew tardiness would be strictly a
problem for volunteer projects, that's not necessarily the case.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XkywiOJYE7s/XjKvys_lpNI/AAAAAAAAC58/8q_h3bt9Sl4vNEE5VRSm8jOupWbreNe4wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/latetime.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XkywiOJYE7s/XjKvys_lpNI/AAAAAAAAC58/8q_h3bt9Sl4vNEE5VRSm8jOupWbreNe4wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/latetime.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Many
a low-budget film on a tight schedule has had to rush through scenes
thanks to a few people who think that an 8am call time translates into
"sometime around eight-ish".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Often
these folks don't think that being late is really a big deal. They
don't think about the daily expenses and careful planning that goes into
shooting even just a short film.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One
method that seems to cut down on these problems is to schedule call
time at least 15 minutes before you actually need everyone to be there.
The extra time allows your cast and crew to grab some coffee and
chit-chat while the habitually tardy are more likely to arrive in time
to start the day proper.</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
If you are the director and/or producer, being early is a must. As a
rule of thumb you should be the first one in and last one out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhdagjYVyUY/XjKwxqAOpCI/AAAAAAAAC6E/lfL9q2AFa0ckfoHbkJHbQIO72yhDrCFWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/lateschedule.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhdagjYVyUY/XjKwxqAOpCI/AAAAAAAAC6E/lfL9q2AFa0ckfoHbkJHbQIO72yhDrCFWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lateschedule.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>
Another trick to thwart the habitually late cast member is to schedule
his/her scenes later in the day and set their call time an hour earlier
than you normally would. That way your crew is busy doing something
rather than flirting with diabetes with the donuts of the crafty table
while waiting to get started.<br />
<br />
The possible downside to this is that if someone begins to catch on that
they are doing nothing for the first hour or so, it may encourage them
to just arrive later anyway. <br />
<br />
The hard truth is that you can often identify your troublesome cast or
crew members before the cameras start rolling if they are always late to
meetings and rehearsals. It may be a very hard call to make, but if you
are on a really tight schedule and can't afford to tack on extra hours
(or days) to accommodate people who don't seem to care about making
people wait around for them, you may want to consider replacing them
before you start shooting. </p><p> </p><p> Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or a
question? Or even a criticism? Feel free to let us know by commenting
below!</p><p> </p>Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-62215028875699922432021-05-01T04:30:00.001-07:002021-05-01T04:30:03.644-07:00The No-Budget Production Survival Kit<p> When a production has very little money
you can expect that it won't have some of those creature comforts that
would otherwise be expected on a set.<br />
<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpD8z7zTNpI/XjK7Sup3c0I/AAAAAAAAC6c/XnjVY9OFORQfcjqYg0H9LTGwoEDfkawWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/firstaidkit.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpD8z7zTNpI/XjK7Sup3c0I/AAAAAAAAC6c/XnjVY9OFORQfcjqYg0H9LTGwoEDfkawWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/firstaidkit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
One
of the most-overlooked essentials on an micro-budget production is a
first aid kit. With all kinds of equipment scattered around and the
general craziness around a set, it's not terribly difficult for someone
to get hurt.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's always a good idea to keep a first aid kit in your car.<i> </i>You
can purchase basic first aid kit at drug stores or even create your own
using an old bag and whatever medical supplies you can anticipate ever
needing. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Make
sure you always know where the nearest hospital is located in case of
emergency, especially when shooting at locations where cell phone
reception is not reliable.</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Pssst... Film-makers! If you are working on a project that involves a
lot of action, stunts, or takes place in exterior locations such as in
the woods where risk of injury is higher, consider hiring a paramedic or
nurse to stay on the set. You may also be able to find one to volunteer
their time in exchange for film credit. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vVawSXIRiw/XjQoQDkkKAI/AAAAAAAAC9A/jMnw1_fCLREyymEY6A96AqIzziZ9Ce7XACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wild3.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vVawSXIRiw/XjQoQDkkKAI/AAAAAAAAC9A/jMnw1_fCLREyymEY6A96AqIzziZ9Ce7XACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/wild3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you are going to be working outdoors, especially in wooded areas or
in water, your survival pack should include insect repellent,
hydrocortisone cream, a snakebite kit, and a planned escape route to get
to a car or enclosure. <br />
<br />
Remember, there are many things in the woods that will try to murder you.<br />
<br />
It
also pays to learn how to identify spiders, snakes, and other nasty
critters that are indigenous to the area. Investing in a snake hook and
learning how to use it is also a good idea to handle uninvited visitors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvrqRcNnj2c/XjQdh8WMv9I/AAAAAAAAC80/IBn23a6FxGkn8RI8CajmGRx0zLDv6o64gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cleanupblood.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvrqRcNnj2c/XjQdh8WMv9I/AAAAAAAAC80/IBn23a6FxGkn8RI8CajmGRx0zLDv6o64gCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/cleanupblood.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Always bring a change of clothes, paper towels or baby wipes, and a bath towel if you are on the crew
of an action-adventure or horror movie set. Or pretty much any type of
project where blood, goo, mud, and who knows what else is going to be
slung around. There's a good chance that you can get very messy, even if
you are behind the camera. <br />
<br />
This also comes in handy
in the event of rain on an exterior location. Having a dry pair of
clothes to change into can keep a miserable day from becoming an
unbearable one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v9KTP2MA1ao/XjK4n3YxMbI/AAAAAAAAC6U/GX6_YEf9SMwCZGWtt8D7bYeQe0uzFg_8wCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/lunchpack.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="630" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v9KTP2MA1ao/XjK4n3YxMbI/AAAAAAAAC6U/GX6_YEf9SMwCZGWtt8D7bYeQe0uzFg_8wCPcBGAYYCw/s400/lunchpack.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Productions on a really tight budget may skimp a lot on craft
services (if they have it at all.) Remember, no-budget films are
notorious for going long past the scheduled wrap time.<br />
<br />
It's a good idea to pack a few snacks and drinks in your car just in
case. You can also pick up a small ice cooler at a thrift store if you
want cold drinks ready for you.<br />
<br />
When we go on sets where we suspect there was no budget for meals, we
always pack enough snacks and water for a small army. It never goes to
waste on a set full of hungry people who haven't eaten in ten hours.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> Subscribe to this newsletter to get more practical tips for film-makers!</i></div>Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-28209722061871977292021-04-01T06:00:00.000-07:002021-04-01T06:00:11.330-07:00Don't Lose Your Keys!<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
You know how it goes on the set of a project that has a budget that
wouldn't buy a decent meal in L.A. Everyone is running around doing
multiple jobs and eventually that must-have-now item is locked in
somebody's car. (Or worse, somebody's car has to be moved) and that
somebody is completely indisposed at the moment.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vT2XIf63XmQ/XjKpPfhtv7I/AAAAAAAAC5w/t212oFR2Fm4GV1bpHJu33DqCk0QwPt4wQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/keysuse.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="580" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vT2XIf63XmQ/XjKpPfhtv7I/AAAAAAAAC5w/t212oFR2Fm4GV1bpHJu33DqCk0QwPt4wQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/keysuse.jpg" width="386" /></a></div>
So
the car owner hands over the keys to a very busy PA and by wrap time
they have not made it back to the owner. Somewhere there's a PA walking
around with several sets of keys in his pocket and with any luck he
hasn't already left for the day.<br />
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
This
isn't fool-proof, but investing in a key fob with your name clearly
marked on it can save you a lot of headaches.<br />
<br />
When that flustered PA
realizes that he's jingling around like Christmas and pulls out his new
key collection, you'll be among the first people he looks for.<br />
<br />
Another
keychain trick is to get a bunch of cheap plastic tags from a hardware
store and write your name and crew position on them. This is really
handy if you change positions from one
production to the next.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In a world where a lot of people drive cars that look the same at a
glance, another time-saving tip is to put something visible on your car
to identify it as yours.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vLUhX6gmt8k/XjPt3RmE6cI/AAAAAAAAC7w/CqZ9iQQM-DkTvidVFGBiHCZ43S6uStS4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/carbumper.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vLUhX6gmt8k/XjPt3RmE6cI/AAAAAAAAC7w/CqZ9iQQM-DkTvidVFGBiHCZ43S6uStS4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/carbumper.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Just telling the PA that "it's the white Honda" could have him out for
quite some time trying your keys in the half-dozen white cars scattered
around the location. There are many people who aren't savvy to make and
models too, so saying "It's the white Honda Accord." might not be as
helpful as you'd think.<br />
<br />
You can get a custom bumper stickers made for around $8.00 (or less) at
any number of online print-on-demand shops. Just attach it to a
magnetic strip and slap it on the back of your car when you're working
on location.<br />
<br />
You can use just your name or get creative with a slogan. Anything that
stands out so all you have to tell the PA is the color of the car and
what the bumper sticker says.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<i>Subscribe to this newsletter to get more practical tips for film-makers!</i>
Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-75037695631502221852021-03-01T04:00:00.001-08:002021-03-01T04:00:05.977-08:00Casting a No-Budget Production<p> Producers with a minuscule budget will often cast their projects using
friends and family because they believe that experienced actors would
cost too much money. While this usually does hold true for SAG actors,
there are thousands of unaffiliated trained actors out there who are
dying to work for a different type of currency.<br />
<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBx6M4yNQMY/XjE7KxgJjjI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/VNA3C7D9ZxQ4VmEHsreGJxIWbmouAcVDACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/brokefilm.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="430" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBx6M4yNQMY/XjE7KxgJjjI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/VNA3C7D9ZxQ4VmEHsreGJxIWbmouAcVDACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/brokefilm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Yes, we're talking about film footage that showcases their talent and
is used to build up an actor's sizzle reel. It's worth its weight in
gold to a novice actor who is serious about pursuing a career in the
movie-making business.<br />
<br />
One way to weed out the
seriously ambitious from the sorta-interested in acting is by utilizing
casting sites that charge actors to view or submit to projects. These
sites will allow productions to post their casting calls for free, and
some even have filters to make sure that only those that fit the
criteria for the role can submit. Candidates will send you their
resumes, headshots, and whatever demo videos they have. You can choose
which ones you'd like to contact with information about sending in a
video audition.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
When using a casting site, keep in mind that they are used by both
unrepresented actors and talent agencies. Be very clear about being a
strictly voluntary project and list any type of non-monetary
compensation that you are offering such as meals, credit, and that
all-important sizzle reel footage.<br />
<br />
While it seems to be a standard pitch, don't just say "credit and copy".
Many films never make it out of post-production (or even through
filming) and more actors are getting keen to this. Offer footage, even
if it ends up just being raw.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lul5-m-1kZU/XjE5-rrw9YI/AAAAAAAAC4I/VzAPesqveHs-5751wbFcBHGk7pBXL49MQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bull.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="830" height="327" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lul5-m-1kZU/XjE5-rrw9YI/AAAAAAAAC4I/VzAPesqveHs-5751wbFcBHGk7pBXL49MQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/bull.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Don't think that you can attract "better" actors by promising things
like deferred pay or back-end points upon the film turning a profit.
These are sometimes called "monkey points" because most films
never turn a profit able to accommodate this.<br />
<br />
You are
just as likely to find very talented people who have been through a lot
of training just by simply being honest about your budget and offering
footage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div><p>
<br />
Most importantly, deliver on this promise to your actors as soon as
possible, even if the film gets stuck in post or the project derails
altogether after the scenes are shot. Remember, a minute or two of
footage is all it cost you to cast your production.</p><p><br />
</p><p><br />
</p>Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-27468828753314679292021-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:002021-02-01T05:00:02.211-08:00Craft Services: Don't Skimp on the Grub!<p> </p><div style="text-align: left;">
It can't be stressed enough how important providing good meals on a set
is. It doesn't matter if it's a multi-million dollar picture or a
micro-budget short, feeding the cast and crew a nutritious meal is an
investment that pays off even long after the project has wrapped.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AHYEeyNF_rg/XivwYzRAIUI/AAAAAAAACzc/-eFjpP6yz2UCOJ-D_X8USVjJA86aZm8dACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/FoodBad.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="930" data-original-width="930" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AHYEeyNF_rg/XivwYzRAIUI/AAAAAAAACzc/-eFjpP6yz2UCOJ-D_X8USVjJA86aZm8dACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/FoodBad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When planning out your budget, allow ample funds for craft services
and/or catering. You don't need to hire a fancy service to cater. With a
little planning ahead and talking to managers, you can get some great
discounts from local restaurants while arranging to have a PA pick up a
feast to deliver to the set.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Pizza and fast food are common standbys. However, with the wide variety
of special diets and allergies that people have the chances are good
that you'll have at least one person who can't eat it. Always provide a
wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy on the menu so your
crew can choose what's right for them.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Finding out about allergies or special dietary needs ahead of time is
always a good idea, and it makes the job of planning the menu a lot
easier. Add a diet and medical info sheet to your paperwork when signing
on cast and crew. That way you'll know exactly what type of diets
you'll have to accommodate. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXSBi2Z2j9o/XivxY5wx-JI/AAAAAAAACzk/OXiAvhNTug4NKLsYKbfKNcwr3i6zCup5ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/FoodGood.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="570" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXSBi2Z2j9o/XivxY5wx-JI/AAAAAAAACzk/OXiAvhNTug4NKLsYKbfKNcwr3i6zCup5ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/FoodGood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For very low budgets, consider having someone cook meals and deliver
them to the set. A few bags of groceries can be a lot cheaper than
restaurant catering and there are hundreds of simple dishes that can be
prepared quickly and set out as a buffet for meal times. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And don't forget the beverages! Asides from the bottled water, it's
always a good idea to provide coffee, iced tea, and maybe even lemonade
or a fruit punch. You can get large beverage dispensers pretty cheap at
discount stores and keep a cooler full of ice nearby. If you shoot
frequently, a commercial chilled drink dispenser might be a worthwhile
investment. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Providing good meals does a lot more than just feed people. It boosts
morale, makes the crew look forward to working with you, and can even
boost up your reputation in the long run. It is not uncommon for Green
Room chatter to include discussions about who offers great meals and who
just serves cold pizza every day. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-14155349477363465002020-12-01T04:30:00.000-08:002020-12-17T23:49:44.868-08:00Film-Making During Lockdown<p> With the current pandemic forcing people to stay apart and
shelter-in-place, film productions of all budgets and sizes have come to
a screeching halt. However, necessity being the mother of invention has
brought forth a trend of stay-at-home films either made entirely by
people living at the same location or by editing together scenes films
in separate locations with each being taped by the occupants of that
location.<br />
<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jhpl8AeSujs/XqBTpdshZpI/AAAAAAAADX8/8-B0eUTAElc_qhVTuKn4n-NbWoJaqrGywCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/SAH_screen.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jhpl8AeSujs/XqBTpdshZpI/AAAAAAAADX8/8-B0eUTAElc_qhVTuKn4n-NbWoJaqrGywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/SAH_screen.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Stay-at-home videos can be tricky and a lot depends on the script. While
traditionally the writer doesn't concern him/herself with how a scene
will be filmed, for this type of project it is imperative for the writer
to know exactly what type of props and costumes each cast member has
access to, what their location looks like, and if there is someone
around to hold the camera for them.<br />
<br />
It is possible to film a scene with two actors in it while the actors
are in two separate locations. To do this, make sure that both actors
have access to a room with similar painted walls. (This is usually, but
not always, easy with many folks having at least one room with basic
white walls in their homes.) Arrange for the actors to talk while
facing opposite directions and being placed in different areas of the
room, and you will be able to cut it together in editing to make them
appear to be in the same place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gWq382Fo5o/XqBTu_g-uFI/AAAAAAAADYA/6hgQbeamVC8_4GPcYos-2loaqZFqJ1pDQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/offscreen.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gWq382Fo5o/XqBTu_g-uFI/AAAAAAAADYA/6hgQbeamVC8_4GPcYos-2loaqZFqJ1pDQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/offscreen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>
Using off-screen dialogue is also a tool that comes in handy to make
characters appear to be in close proximity of each other even if they
are miles apart in actuality. Having one character call out to another
from a different room gives the illusion that they are both in the same
house.<br />
<br />
Another easy technique to use is to create found-footage or
documentary-style film, where it would be expected to only see one or
two people on camera at a time and in the case of documentary-style, all
characters at different locations.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or a
question? Or even a criticism? Feel free to let us know by commenting
below!</p>Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-90424065762031324112020-08-01T01:36:00.001-07:002020-12-17T23:58:30.107-08:00August 2020 - Taking a Break!The COVID-19 outbreak has changed some plans that we would have been announcing this month, so we have to take a short break while we do a bit of reorganizing!<br />
<br />
We'll be resuming our monthly newsletter soon! <br />
<br />
In the meantime, Siren by the Sea just opened for submissions for its third season. They are accepting film, screenplay, trailer, and poster submissions until the end of the year.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://filmfreeway.com/SirenbytheSea">https://filmfreeway.com/SirenbytheSea</a></b>Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-70332806655338866482020-07-01T07:39:00.001-07:002020-12-17T23:58:05.747-08:00Avoiding Fly-By-Night Film Festivals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div><p>
Unsure if an impressive-looking festival is really worth the fee? This month we're talking about how to spot film events that aren't quite what they seem.<br />
<br />
<br /> </p><p>Browsing through festival services like Withoutabox and
FilmFreeway can be as overwhelming as selecting a wine at a fancy
restaurant. How do you be sure that it's a good one?<br />
<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gG4SLAK9LBM/Xis9ZHIFhtI/AAAAAAAACw0/Or94l7uqyro12qTinkdQdt7I3gdfZ0l1wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wine.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="430" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gG4SLAK9LBM/Xis9ZHIFhtI/AAAAAAAACw0/Or94l7uqyro12qTinkdQdt7I3gdfZ0l1wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/wine.jpeg" width="259" /></a></div>
It's an unpleasant fact that dozens of new festivals pop up every
year and some of them exist only to prey upon film-makers. There
really isn't a sure-fire method for weeding out these scoundrels, but
there are some things you can look for to make a determination if a
festival is worth the price of the submission fee.<br />
<br />
Although many online contests seem to be created solely for the
fleecing of film-makers, don't make the mistake of thinking that you
are safe by just sticking to live events. There are quite a few
bare-minimum festivals out there that count on the idea that you'll
spend a lot of money for the chance to see your work on a big
screen... and many of them won't even deliver on that.<br />
<br />
You can usually get an idea of what you're in for by looking at
the venue. Festivals held in cinema houses or large event halls will
probably have everything one imagines a film festival should have.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCG57A4Ei3o/Xis9hv56WoI/AAAAAAAACw4/NntR8rt4XdUNtVhmKyS7Bb0I9tCKZbdSACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/garagefest2.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="630" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCG57A4Ei3o/Xis9hv56WoI/AAAAAAAACw4/NntR8rt4XdUNtVhmKyS7Bb0I9tCKZbdSACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/garagefest2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Smaller festivals that don't have the thousands of dollars needed
to rent a big theatre for a day may take place in a more
social-friendly setting like a community center or even a bar.
<i>(Tavern festivals can actually be a lot of fun!</i><i>)</i><br />
<i> </i>
<br />
And then there are the least expensive alternatives, which are
usually rented warehouses, temporary office spaces, or library
meeting rooms. The very bottom of the barrel is a festival held in a
residential home, or worse, the backyard.<br />
<br />
Most festivals will include the address of the event on their
listing with film submission services. Thanks to the magic of Google
Maps, it is fairly easy to determine what type of location is hosting
the event. If they only list a general area or state that the
location will be announced at a later time, it may be a warning sign
that a live event may not actually be planned.<br />
<br />
While it is entirely possible that a festival with a small venue
may be worth its weight in gold with the networking opportunities,
there are a few things that may indicate that a
festival is either out to drain the wallets of its participants or
that attendance by the film-makers is actually being discouraged.<br />
<br />
Be wary of festivals that charge the selected film-makers for
tickets to the event. Unless there was no submission fee and ticket
sales are the only way that the event covers its expenses, this is a
very unusual practice. Most reputable festivals will offer at least
two free tickets to each of the selected films and screenplays.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqyRUEXOz-Y/XjFkTgzzMzI/AAAAAAAAC5M/lv5EcWRD6Zk77kdKpDCpo3tXDL9rcQvSgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/VIPparty.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="730" height="298" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqyRUEXOz-Y/XjFkTgzzMzI/AAAAAAAAC5M/lv5EcWRD6Zk77kdKpDCpo3tXDL9rcQvSgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/VIPparty.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Some predatory festivals will offer free “basic” admission to
selected film-makers but then strongly encourage them to upgrade by purchasing a V.I.P. ticket with a pitch that is designed to prey on one’s
fear of missing out on great opportunities.<br />
<br />
These expensive upgrades
usually involve access to exclusive parties where unnamed but
super-important special guests have been invited. The operative word
here is <i>invited,</i> which doesn’t mean that the invitation was
accepted.<br />
<br />
So how do you avoid these vampire festivals that were designed to
bleed your wallet dry? It’s not always easy because some of them
put out some really impressive bait.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">
Ask questions
first.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-De75yzKnsyE/XjFunAcZSzI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/RuQjmXUu4P4wa1-Xy_Q7fOPflm3OqNYygCEwYBhgL/s1600/angryVIP.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="930" data-original-width="930" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-De75yzKnsyE/XjFunAcZSzI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/RuQjmXUu4P4wa1-Xy_Q7fOPflm3OqNYygCEwYBhgL/s320/angryVIP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If a festival boasts about special VIP parties, ask the fest
if entry is complimentary for selected film-makers. Ask who the
“special guests” are. A reputable festival that has confirmed the
attendance of celebrities will usually advertise them.<br />
<br />
If at all
possible, reach out to someone who has attended the festival in the
past. Google the festival and look for anyone who may have let loose with the
criticism on a blog, forum, or social media. When people get burned
they do tend to talk about it. </div>
<div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Of course, this
may be impossible if the festival is listed as being in its first
year. So the best thing you can do if you suspect that a festival
might be a fly-by-night scam is simply not to submit to it.</div>
<div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><br /></div>
Like what you're reading? Don't forget to subscribe to this monthly newsletter so you never miss an issue!<br />
<br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<style type="text/css">
p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 120% }</style></div>
Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-66749709011652343892020-06-01T07:00:00.001-07:002020-12-17T23:54:44.670-08:00Avoiding Scams in the World of Online Film Festivals<br />
Many of the festivals created solely to line the pockets of the organizers are fairly easy to spot. They are generally online-only contests that put nothing of monetary value up as prizes and have very little (if any) operating expenses. Often they will have prestigious-sounding names with the word "Awards" in the title.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Tzh7sVCyXg/Xi3O18F1UgI/AAAAAAAAC2I/UK7THrXCl_U0fh9OJKnBzKV9NeSQupeXACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/onlinefestdesk.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="630" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Tzh7sVCyXg/Xi3O18F1UgI/AAAAAAAAC2I/UK7THrXCl_U0fh9OJKnBzKV9NeSQupeXACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/onlinefestdesk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Such a festival may have a low entry fee to attract a lot of
submissions and ridiculous amount of award categories that suggest that anyone can
win a nice pair of auto-generated digital winner's laurels if
they submit often enough.<br />
<br />
Others may have much higher submission fees and a pitch that suggests that they are a very prestigious awards competition. They are a bit more stingy with the free laurels and almost all entries are treated to an auto-generated rejection letter. <br />
<br />
A growing trend among these festivals is to put their awards
into separate submission categories. This essentially forces the film-maker into
paying multiple fees to basically nominate themselves for more than one award. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6WxEj3kN3Ig/XjFcsSUku3I/AAAAAAAAC40/oYMP2GJBVS0rwivctSAvookV4VYyCegmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/trphcost2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="430" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6WxEj3kN3Ig/XjFcsSUku3I/AAAAAAAAC40/oYMP2GJBVS0rwivctSAvookV4VYyCegmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/trphcost2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Some of these festivals might offer impressive trophies to their winners for an additional fee.<i> (We've seen some charge well over $100 for them!) </i>Of course there are also the additional shipping and handling charges too.<br />
<br />
If you're a trophy-hunter, these fests might be exactly what you are looking for. However, it should be pointed out that you can have your very own trophy made at a local engraver shop for a lot less than what these festivals will charge you for it.<br />
<br />
Quite a few of these shady online festivals sweeten the pot <i>(and demand higher submission fees)</i>
by offering attractive prizes that you would have no way of confirming.
They may promise that the winners will be shown to studio executives or
"industry professionals" for consideration, giving film-makers the
impression that they have close relationships with some of the top dogs
in Hollywood. However, they'll never name these "industry
professionals".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8W8Z_C7hl-w/XjQJ8zbTsXI/AAAAAAAAC8c/wXVLndwXlDErdS82zsH1V9CflQeS5XrVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/waitingaward.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8W8Z_C7hl-w/XjQJ8zbTsXI/AAAAAAAAC8c/wXVLndwXlDErdS82zsH1V9CflQeS5XrVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/waitingaward.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Others might promise a consultation session via phone or Skype with an industry professional to their winners.<br />
<br />
The
catch here is that there will not be a solid appointment date
for this phone consultation. Those industry professionals will always be busy on some
project whenever you contact the festival about arranging for it, assuming that the
festival responds at all.<br />
<br />
<i>(As of this writing one of
our editors has been waiting over a year for such a prize to be
fulfilled and has been contacted by other "winners" who have been
waiting even longer.)</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Another trick we've seen are monthly online festivals that list
themselves as live events. They will claim that select films from the
winners will be screened at their big live festival at the end of the
year.<br />
<br />
While some of these festivals are actually legitimate, the shady
ones can be difficult to spot unless you happen to be looking to submit
on the last month and see that the event date is the exact same day as
the selection notification date. Most online-only fests will use
the same date for both, but a "live" festival will only do this if they
don't want anyone showing up!<i> </i><br />
<br />
Before you start black-listing every online festival in existence, there are some notable exceptions to consider.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y8x6pN5zOZM/XjLGfxJXyEI/AAAAAAAAC60/7PvxIlsfqSIeB2KjiQf1goWNqJEWWswyACEwYBhgL/s1600/winscript.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="630" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y8x6pN5zOZM/XjLGfxJXyEI/AAAAAAAAC60/7PvxIlsfqSIeB2KjiQf1goWNqJEWWswyACEwYBhgL/s400/winscript.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Most screenwriting competitions operate online simply out of practicality. Unless they are holding live table reads, writer workshops, or an extravagant awards ceremony, these competitions often just consist of a website and a jury.<br />
<br />
Reading scripts is time-consuming and requires knowledge of the
craft, so many writing contests will require submission fees to
compensate the judges. It is not uncommon for those fees to be very high
for later deadlines in order to encourage early submissions. <br />
<br />
Another
type of online festival that may be worth considering are those that
offer services, feedback, scholarships, or even just cash prizes. These
are sometimes hosted by organizations or production companies looking
for scripts or shorts that can be produced into larger projects and they
are usually not shy about stating their intentions straight up in their
listings.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
If you've submitted to a festival and begin to feel like you've been duped, especially if a promised award or service has not been delivered, the first thing you should do is contact the festival directly. Many small festivals get dozens, if not hundreds of submissions and it is possible that the festival director missed you when sending things out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mjM7tP4uc5k/XjCNikT5J7I/AAAAAAAAC3s/s_KPOMIRZ9UUPPbgMs6_thX-bEo92p15QCEwYBhgL/s1600/newfest.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="730" data-original-width="830" height="351" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mjM7tP4uc5k/XjCNikT5J7I/AAAAAAAAC3s/s_KPOMIRZ9UUPPbgMs6_thX-bEo92p15QCEwYBhgL/s400/newfest.jpg" width="400" /></a></i></div>
<i>(One festival we entered was extremely embarrassed when they discovered that the email with a script analysis they thought they had sent us was saved as a draft instead.)</i> A legitimate festival will try to fix the problem immediately.<br />
<br />
As a rule of thumb, give a festival two weeks after the notification
date to deliver on the goods unless they give you a solid date for when
to expect your prize. After that, contact the festival about the problem
and see how they respond. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Keep in mind that many small online festivals are only run by one or two people who may have just been overwhelmed by the amount of work that goes into a legitimate contest. However, if the issue hasn't been resolved within two months, you may have fallen prey to a dishonest festival.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Was this article helpful? Subscribe to this newsletter to get more tips on a monthly basis! </i><br />
<br /><br />Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-68510872804618659172020-05-01T07:26:00.001-07:002020-12-17T23:51:16.300-08:00Recording for the Role - Part Two<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Welcome back to our series on self-taped auditions! In this day and age of social distancing, the taped audition is even more important than ever. Casting is slowly starting to emerge again as productions think ahead to their needs once we are free to move about the cabin once more. But inside information from casting directors at all levels from indies to larger SAG features and television series indicate that once restrictions are lifted, the days of in-person casting (which have already begun a slow decline) may be even fewer and further between.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HluJrFpniyI/XqBNRi109bI/AAAAAAAADXs/ITezNOaGE3Ij-L663UxR6w5jb9pyUy6-gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/screen1a.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HluJrFpniyI/XqBNRi109bI/AAAAAAAADXs/ITezNOaGE3Ij-L663UxR6w5jb9pyUy6-gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/screen1a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
As such, you my find that not only are your first auditions held digitally, your callbacks may be as well. In fact, services such as Zoom are making one-on-one callbacks in a virtual environment much more commonplace. Later we will discuss video chat platforms, but today we'll focus on what you can do to make your taped audition stand out.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We have already covered plain backgrounds and minimal distractions, and having good lighting is a must, but these are all technical aspects. Once the scene is set, what can you do as an actor to make your audition the best it can be?<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
First, know your sides. There is really never a time in a self-taped audition that you should not be "off book" and if you make a mistake, you have the luxury of re-taping it. As you learn your scenes, remember that it is not just about saying the lines. The foundation of these concepts are based on Uta Hagen's "Nine Questions" and they are the foundation for bringing any character to life in a believable manner on film.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE4j74CNrzc/XqBNc7UrkRI/AAAAAAAADXw/5KkAn_t99bcJaQYTOGRoTNSNn3SC29zIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/screen2a.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE4j74CNrzc/XqBNc7UrkRI/AAAAAAAADXw/5KkAn_t99bcJaQYTOGRoTNSNn3SC29zIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/screen2a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
WHO are you and what do you WANT in this scene? What is your objective? And how are you going to achieve it? Knowing this about your character is a good way to help connect in the role. Also, don't just focus on your lines. Who are the other players in the scene? Are they stopping you from achieving your objective (becoming obstacles)? How will you overcome this?<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Next, when it is time to tape your scenes, think about the "moment before" - audition sides are a slice of life. They start in the middle of a reality that has been ongoing, so it is your job as an actor to bring the audience into that reality. If you jump right in, shifting from you to the character when you say your first line, you have likely already lost the casting director's attention. If you need to, you can improvise a few lines with your reader leading into the scene (just be sure to cut those from the actual tape before you submit it!)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Finally, really SEE where you are in the scene. What are the "given circumstances" in this scene? Visualize the space. Are you inside? Outside? In a crowed restaurant? A hospital room? How would you behave in these locations? What's around you? When you can see it, then casting can see it in your eyes. It's up to you to bring this character to life in a very confined space, and that life must be contained in your eyes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you do all of this, it does not guarantee that you will get the role but it WILL help you make a good impression which may not get you there this time but will help get you back "in the room" for the future.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Enjoy these tips, make use of them, and HAPPY AUDITIONING!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or a
question? Or even a criticism? Feel free to let us know by commenting
below!<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<style type="text/css">
p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 120% }</style></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<style type="text/css">
p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 120% }</style></div>
</div>
Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-9635853952091932782020-04-01T00:30:00.001-07:002020-12-17T23:46:16.292-08:00Recording for the Role - Part One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div><p>
Looking for an edge when it comes to getting acting work? This month we're diving into the subject of taped auditions. </p><p><br />
The digital landscape has changed the landscape of film in a variety of ways. The use of digital cameras has made it possible for movie-makers to create an entire universe and even allow tornadoes full of sharks to attack all over the gobe. But it is not just the post-production phase that technology has reinvented in the industry.<br />
<br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZuc_eozlBs/Xiz-NzFRYyI/AAAAAAAAC0A/6ymXCZqOR84ULkEZ_DUo_hfTCW0hCxVSQCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/auditionhope.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="630" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZuc_eozlBs/Xiz-NzFRYyI/AAAAAAAAC0A/6ymXCZqOR84ULkEZ_DUo_hfTCW0hCxVSQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/auditionhope.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
During the casting process, more and more filmmakers are using taped auditions and Eco casts to allow them to look at talent outside their own backyard. In fact, in recent years the in-person audition is much more common for a callback situation than it is for a first-round audition. As a result, it is important for actors to not only keep up with technology but also to avoid some common mistakes that can cost them the role.<br />
<br />
Casting directors are incredibly busy people. When an audition goes out it is not uncommon for there to be hundreds, or in some cases thousands, of submissions for a single role. Digital auditions have made these numbers even larger. So, when you submit to an audition to a casting director one of the first things you want to make sure of is that it is actually looked at and taken seriously. That can be as simple as making sure that you follow the directions given in the submissions on the breakdown. Sounds obvious, right? Yet far too many people seem to overlook this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MWoe7rTi13k/Xi4fmD7-NiI/AAAAAAAAC2s/wciAtF2ZJBU9VZWa6TUV_jGpFku5-iApQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/sellingself.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="430" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MWoe7rTi13k/Xi4fmD7-NiI/AAAAAAAAC2s/wciAtF2ZJBU9VZWa6TUV_jGpFku5-iApQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/sellingself.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
One thing all actors want to do is try to sell themselves to casting and to do that they will often go to extreme lengths to become the character. This can be something that works in your favor, but it can also work against you.<br />
<br />
You may have noticed that most taped auditions ask you to record your sides in front of a plain, solid background. The reasoning behind this is that you don't want things to distract from your performance. However, having worked in casting on several indie films, we can tell you the horror stories of tapes that we've received that did not follow this one simple instruction.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
One actor decided to create the entire scene. He went so far as to bring in his own production company, find his own location for the scene, and create his own mini-film. He bragged about this in the submission notes! The problem with that is that what he created was nothing like what the production had in mind and a large part of the tape was spent with the camera focused on the back of his head.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tw-q9BcEf5g/Xi4VtUizOSI/AAAAAAAAC2Y/_fDzxJ7-kwoytSl230Tzs6hJSH-8GQ4YACEwYBhgL/s1600/auditionbad3.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tw-q9BcEf5g/Xi4VtUizOSI/AAAAAAAAC2Y/_fDzxJ7-kwoytSl230Tzs6hJSH-8GQ4YACEwYBhgL/s320/auditionbad3.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Another actress chose her location because the sides mentioned that the scene was outside and the character was sitting under a tree. Kudos to this young lady for reading the sides carefully, but the shot was so wide that we could not see her face. And unfortunately, there was also a bird playing in that tree and our attention was drawn more to that than this poor actress's audition.<br />
<br />
It is not just the backdrop that matters. In another audition, the
actor had not learned his lines and so he was holding his sides. Rather
than keeping the pages low and out of frame as much as possible, he used
them as a "prop". Paper flying around draws the attention away from the
actor. When he started using the paper as a weapon and looked to be
attacking the camera with it he became less interesting and more than a
little bit frightening.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hd3QLTmhMJg/Xi4aBlH1ziI/AAAAAAAAC2k/4HqrO7YdbV8pmy__z-13OsBdXDgOv_cJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/auditiondistracted.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hd3QLTmhMJg/Xi4aBlH1ziI/AAAAAAAAC2k/4HqrO7YdbV8pmy__z-13OsBdXDgOv_cJQCEwYBhgL/s320/auditiondistracted.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Other actors have been upstaged by heir children or pets frolicking in
the background, audible television sets, and a host of other "real life"
distractions that are not part of the scene. Basically, anything that
is not the actor auditioning and steals the focus away from the actor on
the recording is a fairly good way to guarantee that the casting
director is going to pass on you.<br />
<br />
This also includes the use of costumes. It is perfectly acceptable to
suggest the part. For instance, if you are auditioning for a detective,
a business suit will work. For a doctor role, a simple polo shirt will
do the trick.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jhs3G1H1iMs/Xi4g7hzNkjI/AAAAAAAAC28/VOpLmsndG-w1_npUNhtEtZlNryT59RLmwCEwYBhgL/s1600/auditioncostume2.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jhs3G1H1iMs/Xi4g7hzNkjI/AAAAAAAAC28/VOpLmsndG-w1_npUNhtEtZlNryT59RLmwCEwYBhgL/s320/auditioncostume2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
But
if you are auditioning for the villain in a slasher movie, dressing up
like Freddy Krueger for your audition might get some laughs but it
probably won't get you the part.<br />
<br />
And if you're actually
wearing the Freddy Krueger fingers (suffice to say that we did see
this!) you really come off as being just a little bit creepy and even
horror filmmakers want to make sure that their actors are at least
mentally stable. Creep them out with your take on a character, not with
your ability to cosplay. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
So the takeaway from this first in a series on taped auditions is to
follow directions and keep it simple. Tape your auditions inside and up
against a plain wall, sheet, curtain, or neutral photography backdrop
with good lighting. Minimize all other noises and distractions in the
room and let YOUR take on the character be what casting remembers. And
happy auditioning!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or a
question? Or even a criticism? Feel free to let us know by commenting
below!<br />
<br /><br />Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-82928742949289532762020-03-01T06:00:00.010-08:002020-12-17T23:42:40.993-08:00The Great Laurel Debate<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
For a novice film-maker, receiving those first set of laurels is a monumental occasion that goes right up there with the first IMDb credit. It makes no difference which festival they came from, they are like a badge of honor that proves that somebody out there thinks the film is good.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMU_t4DK0Tk/Xivlt4Fb6eI/AAAAAAAACzA/mXjGAAilQCoDek-wbthpW5qNwxaU5j1dACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/awards2.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMU_t4DK0Tk/Xivlt4Fb6eI/AAAAAAAACzA/mXjGAAilQCoDek-wbthpW5qNwxaU5j1dACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/awards2.jpeg" width="217" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
More sets of laurels follow. Most are Official Selections, but there might be some Semi-Finalist or Finalists in the mix. And if the Film Gods are smiling down on the project, there may even be a few Winners. All are proudly displayed on the film's poster for everyone to see. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If the film is good and the film-maker keeps it in the festival circulation for a while, the laurel collection can grow into a vast forest that reaches beyond the open spaces on the poster and begins to deface it.<br />
<br />
And so the great debate begins as to how many laurels should be displayed, from which festivals, or should they even be there at all?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It really boils down to what message the film-maker wishes to send and the audience that is to receive that message. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If the goal is to impress the masses who aren't keen to the hierarchy of film festivals, then a poster overflowing with laurels certainly does the trick. It's a good idea to plan ahead for this and make sure that the poster design has plenty of open space to display the laurels without obstructing the artwork.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8TwgO0lkPw/Xivl07NA35I/AAAAAAAACzE/Pt-9-aouBokj9L9ZM8NNSjAWICF1XYVkACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/awards1.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8TwgO0lkPw/Xivl07NA35I/AAAAAAAACzE/Pt-9-aouBokj9L9ZM8NNSjAWICF1XYVkACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/awards1.jpeg" width="217" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
However, if the aim is to impress saavy film-makers and investors, a poster covered with laurels from lower-level festivals may bring about little more than a few snickers. To make an impression on that crowd, you need laurels from top-tier festivals like Sundance or Cannes tastefully displayed on the poster.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There is some debate as to whether or not Official Selection laurels should be displayed. It seems unfair that these are looked down upon by some, given that they are earned by beating out hundreds, if not thousands, of other entries. A truly knowledgeable person will recognize it as an honor, but there are those uppity folks who argue that only winning or nomination laurels should appear on a poster. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The safest route is just to keep laurels off of your poster altogether and just use them on the film's website or other promotional materials.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P_8NNulM3eQ/Xivl8N2kyCI/AAAAAAAACzI/B3vzbiS7bn83pMjj8Hks3bTJ4vokGyK_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/awards3.jpeg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P_8NNulM3eQ/Xivl8N2kyCI/AAAAAAAACzI/B3vzbiS7bn83pMjj8Hks3bTJ4vokGyK_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/awards3.jpeg" width="217" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078PTMW9Q" target="_blank">Yes, this is a </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" target="_blank">real movie poster</a>.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Another option is to have three versions of the poster: one clean, one with only Winner laurels, and one that showcases every set of laurels the film has earned. That way you can use whichever poster best suits the occasion.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Regardless of how you decide to decorate your poster, don't ever let the laurel snobs get you down. You may not have a Sundance-worthy film, but you do have a film that several other festivals have a high opinion of.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b> </b></u><br /></div><p>
<br /> </p><p> </p><p>Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or a
question? Or even a criticism? Feel free to let us know by commenting
below!<br />
<br /><br />
</p><div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5599350664260112775.post-71778261258486403372020-02-01T06:30:00.006-08:002020-12-17T23:38:36.320-08:00Improving Your Chances at Submission Roulette<br /><div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b></b></div>
You have a new film or screenplay ready to go and there are hundreds of film festivals out there clamoring for new submissions to choose from. It can be both overwhelming and also pretty hard on the wallet. For many film-makers it can seem like you'd have better luck at the tables in Vegas than getting your project into most of the festivals you submit to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6U_41RHerjk/XjP7yDMGEoI/AAAAAAAAC78/PtCEVr6EW1Yeup2IqbrBS2d-xcxa9VoXACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/roulette.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6U_41RHerjk/XjP7yDMGEoI/AAAAAAAAC78/PtCEVr6EW1Yeup2IqbrBS2d-xcxa9VoXACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/roulette.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The
first thing to remember when you submit to a festival is that your
project's fate is generally in the hands of a few judges who simply just
might not like your story. Even the very popular indie films have
their share of critics and it's not uncommon at all for such a film to
sweep up all the awards at one festival and not even be accepted into
another.<br />
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Entry
fees can be pretty expensive so it really pays to do some research on
the festivals you'd like to submit to. See if you can find some of the
films that screened at a particular festival to get an idea of the
festival's quality standards. Some will reject films that don't earn
high scores all across the board on technical aspects while others are
more forgiving and will accept flawed films that have a really good
story. <br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
It's important to have realistic expectations here. If you dream of getting into Cannes or Sundance, you have to be able to compete with the type of films that regularly screen at those events.</div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjwLvrpk0NA/XjP78_nOtnI/AAAAAAAAC8A/FcfFY_43tPw91qIvVs39A0r-Y6THKJrxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/submitternovice2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjwLvrpk0NA/XjP78_nOtnI/AAAAAAAAC8A/FcfFY_43tPw91qIvVs39A0r-Y6THKJrxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/submitternovice2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Setting your sights on smaller festivals is a good choice if your project has a few snags in the weave, but it's important to read the submission rules carefully and follow instructions. When a festival gets hundreds of submissions in that they have to cull down to a few lucky dozen, any deviance from the rules gives the judges an excuse to reject a project.<br />
<br />
If the festival has specific genre categories for submissions, make sure
that your project is easy to identify as fitting into that genre. One
of the top complaints we've heard from festival judges is the amount of
submissions they get that aren't appropriate for the genre.<i> (One festival we know rejected over 400 submissions for this reason alone!)</i><br />
<br />
Pay attention to run time limitations. There are many one-day festivals that only accept films that are less than 15 minutes long. The reason for this is that they can screen more films in a short period of time. For films that just miss this mark, speeding up the end credit roll may do the trick.</div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ7ZqGSZzYs/Xi3Gv18Mg4I/AAAAAAAAC18/wIl0Y4ggnpAAb8zNWDsWoTstks9B6hCxwCEwYBhgL/s1600/submissions.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="730" height="361" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ7ZqGSZzYs/Xi3Gv18Mg4I/AAAAAAAAC18/wIl0Y4ggnpAAb8zNWDsWoTstks9B6hCxwCEwYBhgL/s400/submissions.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Read all the policies and rules before submitting to a festival. Never just assume that a festival will make an exception for your film no matter how good it is.<br />
<br />
Many festivals have film age restrictions, premiere/release status rules, and require additional materials from their selected projects. If your film or screenplay doesn't meet those requirements then you are just wasting your money and their time. </div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
Honor a festival's policy about not issuing student or hardship
waivers. Sending a sob-story letter to a festival that has clearly
stated that it does not issue waivers will generally be ignored. If you
cannot afford the submission fee then look for competitions that offer
waivers or are free to enter. </div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you are ever unsure about whether or not your project is eligible for a particular festival the best course of action is just to contact the festival with your question before submitting. Most submission fees are non-refundable, so a little bit of research can save you a lot of money while navigating around festival submission sites like Withoutabox and FilmFreeway. </div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Subscribe to this newsletter to get more money-saving tips for film-makers!</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Subscribe to this newsletter to get more practical tips for film-makers!</i><br />
<br />
<i> </i> </div>
<h3 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></h3><br /><div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<style type="text/css">
p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 120% }</style></div>
<style type="text/css">
p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 120% }</style>Rogue Chimera Filmshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04179623123408569995noreply@blogger.com0