I am a screenwriter, first and foremost. It's how I introduce myself, it's how people remember me when we bump into each other, and it's genuinely what I enjoy doing, but I want to be more involved.
A few months ago I joined a film production group in Long Beach that consists of passionate filmmakers who want to churn out productions. The first project I helped out where I could; helped make the shot list, PA'd, and was the assistant grip. The second project I volunteered as 1st AD; a ton of work, a lot of unfamiliar territory, but it was ultimately a great experience and we pulled through and finished the shoot on time*. NOW, for the third project, we're in pre-production on a script that I wrote, and I'm excited that I get to produce and direct it.
Fast forward to today. Recently I met a cinematographer and a producer who brought me on to their project to serve as a screenwriter, which is great because that's what I love doing... except, while going through the process with them, I'm realizing that I want more. I wrote the script, sent it to them, a week goes by, they send it back with notes and suggestions. I write a second draft, send it in, a week goes by, they say "a few minor tweaks here and there, but we love it", and now I'm just waiting for more direction. The shoot is planned two weeks from now, so I'm not worried about being left behind, but I am concerned that maybe screenwriting isn't enough.
I want to be in the room. I want to have the conversations and the arguments, and the dialogue that helps shape the direction of the story/movie. This experience is teaching me, that I need to continue writing, but also that I may need to put a concerted effort towards directing. I'll update you all after I finish my short films with the LB production group.
Happy trails to you all!
3 people like this
I hear you, Mitch. Some people want to solely write, and some people want more. Sometimes people determine that quickly, and sometimes it's more of an evolution. I personally like to do more on a project than write. If I had my own big chunk of money right now, I'd put together my own project; hire the right people; and do it. I've done that before, and I'll probably do it again. I love putting together/implementing projects like that. But at least you're part of a team that's doing a project, and that you wrote, which is a lot more than most writers (unfortunately) can say. Major kudos on that, Mitch!
There used to be an old joke around the industry, about how anyone in any given role wanted to really be doing something else. Actors wanted to direct. Directors wanted to produce. Producers wanted to write. And writers wanted to be allowed on set.
I think the underlying theme of the joke is about control - or the lack of it - or wanting to be on the other side of the fence, and not just having "other aspirations.".
Best fortunes to you in your project and your other creative endeavors, Mitch!
RIP DICK DALE (May 4, 1937 - March 16, 2019)
2 people like this
Mitch Bechtold That’s how folks start careers- doing their own projects first with their own people.
So when you’re pitching your next great idea to Bosses hiring new talent and they say “and what else, Mitch?”, you can confidently respond back, “I write, produce, direct, edit. I have a crew of people I can bring on board. Here are the short movies we did together...”
That’s a winning pitch for jobs.
2 people like this
Mitch:
I think that the LB thing is great. Good strategy.
Sorry to sidetrack thread:Bill C: I saw Dick several times in the mid 80's at LA clubs. He was high energy and great fun. He'll definitely be missed.
1 person likes this
I am working as a writer on a project at the moment (send work, wait, send work).
I think the Australian tradition of writer/directors solves the feeling of frustration
Thanks, guys!