You're not alone if you're wondering how to break into the film industry.
Nearly every successful filmmaker has started from nowhere. The problem is there is a significant catch-22 in the industry.
Nobody will take your calls, read your screenplays, or produce your ideas unless you're known.
And unless you get your work produced, it is tough to become “known.”
Stop Asking Permission
When I first started, I did what you're doing. I sent out countless query letters.
Then, I gave my screenplay to friends of friends who knew (or at least claimed to) know someone in the film industry.
And then I checked my email and mail frequently.
And guess what happened?
Nothing.
How to Break Into The Film Industry
Sure, I got the occasional rejection letter, which sometimes included feedback. But most of the time, I sent work into the Hollywood abyss.
That was pretty much the end of it. And as I type these words, I cringe at the experience. I sincerely dislike asking permission.
The turning point for me came when I realized the secret to breaking into the film industry.
I guarantee you will probably not like what I'm about to share because this secret is only for the most serious filmmakers. Are you ready?
If you are wondering how to break into the film industry, the secret is to stop asking permission!
Seriously, you need to stop sending query letters. It would be best to stop hoping someone will notice your brilliance and talent.
From there, you must quit relying on someone else to do the heavy lifting for your career. Instead, you need to become your own production company.
And it would be best if you focused first on the movie you can make this year.
Leverage The Resources You Have
Start by answering this question:
“Given the resources I have right now, what movie can I make this year?”
This may mean you can only make a two-minute movie for YouTube.
That is okay. Make that movie.
For other filmmakers, answering this question means you'll have to put your twenty-million dollar blockbuster script in a drawer and make that low-budget horror movie you've been thinking about.
By doing this, something amazing will happen.
You will stop waiting around for everything to be perfect.
You will take action.
And as a result, you will gain the confidence that comes from doing it.
TL;DR
Breaking into the film industry requires taking action without waiting for permission. Start by leveraging your resources and creating something now, no matter how small.
Glossary
The glossary below defines key terms used to break into the film industry.
- Film Industry: Making movies, including production, distribution, and marketing.
- Query Letter: A letter sent to potential producers or agents to pitch a screenplay or film idea.
- Screenplay: The movie script, including dialogue and descriptions of scenes.
- Rejection Letter: A letter from a producer or agent declining interest in a screenplay or film idea.
- Hollywood Abyss: A metaphor for the film industry's unknown and often unresponsive nature.
- Production Company: A company responsible for the physical production of films.
- Resources: The assets available to a filmmaker, including time, money, and equipment.
- Low-Budget Film: A film made with a relatively small budget.
Popular Questions
Below are some popular questions about breaking into the film industry. I also included some helpful answers.
How can I start in the film industry without connections?
Start by creating your projects and showcasing your talent online to build a portfolio.
Is it necessary to move to Hollywood to break into the film industry?
No, but being in a major film hub can provide more networking opportunities.
What are some alternative ways to get noticed in the film industry?
Enter film festivals, post your work on social media, and collaborate with other filmmakers.
How important is a film degree in breaking into the industry?
While helpful, a film degree is not necessary. Practical experience and networking are crucial.
What should be my first step in breaking into the film industry?
Identify your strengths, create a project within your means, and build a network.
Action Steps
To enhance your chances of breaking into the film industry, consider taking the following action steps:
- Stop waiting for permission and start creating your projects.
- Leverage the resources you currently have to produce a film, no matter how small.
- Network with other filmmakers and industry professionals to build connections.
- Showcase your work online and enter film festivals to gain visibility.
- Continuously improve your skills and stay persistent in your efforts.
Ironically (and I don't fully understand why the universe works this way), as soon as you stop focusing on how to break into the film industry and start doing the work, you will begin breaking into the film industry.
