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For the last two months I’ve been living off a tiny, tiny amount of money. I decided to pack in my weekend job at Woolies and live this life. I can’t really complain about not being able to go out as much or buy any DVD’s anymore, as it was my choice. I decided to become a filmmaker.
After leaving college I was on a desperate search to find work in the harsh world that is the Media industry. I wrote off to loads and loads of companies asking for work or even just a short experience placement. Sadly I didn’t hear anything apart from a request for my show reel, which didn’t go anywhere. One of these companies was Creative Gold, a local video production business. While looking on their website, I noticed they were going into production of their first feature film ‘The Jigsaw of Life’. I hoped this would mean they’d need more staff, but they never contacted me.
Then one day while reading through a Shooting People (an online community for filmmakers) newsletter I noticed an advert for unpaid crew on a film…The Jigsaw of Life. I answered the ad and the next day was in the local Café Bonjour discussing the film. I didn’t want to take on too much responsibility and as of yet, I don’t have an area of expertise. So I was taken on as a Production Assistant. Here I am, eighteen years old and I’ve already achieved my dream…kinda.
The film was still very much in the early stages of pre-production so it would be a couple of months before my services would be needed. Around the middle of July I was called up and asked to come and help out with the auditions. This was a great experience in itself. Not only was I sat on the judges panel watching these actors, I was also filming them and read lines for a few scenes. I’m not an actor, I can’t act at all and I had to stand there, maintaining eye contact with these professional actors and having to give them enough to work off. Some of these scenes involved shouting and violence, so I had to also stand there and be shouted at and pushed around while still looking them in the eye. I also spent some time working the reception area, which was cool as I got to really talk to the actors.
Filming began on the 27th August but I was away getting drunk in a muddy field, sleeping in a tent, and watching some great bands at Reading that weekend. So I didn’t join the production until the following weekend. That Saturday my day started at 4am. Up before the sun, to be at the directors house by 5:30am. It was so early as we were filming at a pub and had to be out by opening time at 11am. After meeting a lot of new people and shaking more hands than I ever have in my life, we set off to start filming. My job as PA meant I’m the guy who does the stuff no one else can/wants to do. So the day consisted of me and my fellow PA, Pete, holding the boom (the long stick that holds the microphone), carrying and setting up equipment, and I took the role of an extra in one scene. It was a long shoot as we had a lot of scenes to cover, some of which took some working out including a fight where the bad guy ends up in a river. After filming, it was to the director’s fiancée’s house for a BBQ. My Dad came and picked me up and I got home just before twelve. It was the longest and hardest days work I’ve ever done and I wasn’t even being paid to do it! It sure was fun though and I now know it’s defiantly what I want to do with my life.
Over the next few weekends we filmed at Oxford University (just after Harry Potter was done with it), various fields, houses, and last week at a Polo club. Here we filmed a party scene where I was again an extra, but this time in the main shot standing behind the lead actor. Not too shabby. I even got the girlfriend in the shot too. The actors are all very cool and I’m sure I’ll call some of them up when I get the money together to make my own film. I’ve always seen actors as those annoying performing arts students who sing, shout, and constantly call attention to themselves. But turns out, they’re people too. It such a good atmosphere on set and most of the time we find ourselves sitting around talking about films and all kinds of stuff like you do with your best friends. We spend around twelve or so hours together a day, so we’ve all grown pretty close. Everyone’s there for the right reason. No one’s being paid, we’re all just there to make a film. It’s about the art, not the money. If it does ever make and money then we get a share of the profits, but that’s a long time away from possibly happening.
My job has also been to film behind the scenes footage and take still photos. I’ve filmed about three hours worth of footage and two hundred pictures. Pete (the other PA) was going to edit it all together and make a documentary for the bonus features of the DVD. But he had a fall out with the director (we haven’t been told why) and is no longer involved with the production, leaving me to do the editing. Kick ass. So now when the filming finishes on Wednesday, I’ll still be able to do something constructive.
I now need to get back to working a ‘real’ job which looks set to be my local Blockbuster store. I’ve been living off the bare minimum and have accumulated a £200 debt but it’s all been worth it. If I’d stayed in Woolworths, what would I have to show for it besides a discount card and a bit of spending money? From this film, I’ll have a finished piece that I can keep forever, show people, and be proud of. So many people want to do this kind of work and never will, so I couldn’t have turned down my chance. What better time to chase your dreams than when your young and have no responsibilities? I’ve followed my dreams and this is only the beginning.
So to all you people who would love to get involved with this kind of work, it is possible. It's going on everywhere, all the time. You just have to get yourself out there and find it. I now also have a book of contacts, which I'm sure we'll make it easier to find work in the future.
I’ll keep you posted on the film. We’re obviously hoping for a theatrical release but I think a straight to DVD is more likely. I also hear that if there’s no distribution deal, it’s almost defiantly going on the BBC. I hope for the best as the better it does, the better it is for me and all the others who have worked so hard.
After leaving college I was on a desperate search to find work in the harsh world that is the Media industry. I wrote off to loads and loads of companies asking for work or even just a short experience placement. Sadly I didn’t hear anything apart from a request for my show reel, which didn’t go anywhere. One of these companies was Creative Gold, a local video production business. While looking on their website, I noticed they were going into production of their first feature film ‘The Jigsaw of Life’. I hoped this would mean they’d need more staff, but they never contacted me.
Then one day while reading through a Shooting People (an online community for filmmakers) newsletter I noticed an advert for unpaid crew on a film…The Jigsaw of Life. I answered the ad and the next day was in the local Café Bonjour discussing the film. I didn’t want to take on too much responsibility and as of yet, I don’t have an area of expertise. So I was taken on as a Production Assistant. Here I am, eighteen years old and I’ve already achieved my dream…kinda.
The film was still very much in the early stages of pre-production so it would be a couple of months before my services would be needed. Around the middle of July I was called up and asked to come and help out with the auditions. This was a great experience in itself. Not only was I sat on the judges panel watching these actors, I was also filming them and read lines for a few scenes. I’m not an actor, I can’t act at all and I had to stand there, maintaining eye contact with these professional actors and having to give them enough to work off. Some of these scenes involved shouting and violence, so I had to also stand there and be shouted at and pushed around while still looking them in the eye. I also spent some time working the reception area, which was cool as I got to really talk to the actors.
Filming began on the 27th August but I was away getting drunk in a muddy field, sleeping in a tent, and watching some great bands at Reading that weekend. So I didn’t join the production until the following weekend. That Saturday my day started at 4am. Up before the sun, to be at the directors house by 5:30am. It was so early as we were filming at a pub and had to be out by opening time at 11am. After meeting a lot of new people and shaking more hands than I ever have in my life, we set off to start filming. My job as PA meant I’m the guy who does the stuff no one else can/wants to do. So the day consisted of me and my fellow PA, Pete, holding the boom (the long stick that holds the microphone), carrying and setting up equipment, and I took the role of an extra in one scene. It was a long shoot as we had a lot of scenes to cover, some of which took some working out including a fight where the bad guy ends up in a river. After filming, it was to the director’s fiancée’s house for a BBQ. My Dad came and picked me up and I got home just before twelve. It was the longest and hardest days work I’ve ever done and I wasn’t even being paid to do it! It sure was fun though and I now know it’s defiantly what I want to do with my life.
Over the next few weekends we filmed at Oxford University (just after Harry Potter was done with it), various fields, houses, and last week at a Polo club. Here we filmed a party scene where I was again an extra, but this time in the main shot standing behind the lead actor. Not too shabby. I even got the girlfriend in the shot too. The actors are all very cool and I’m sure I’ll call some of them up when I get the money together to make my own film. I’ve always seen actors as those annoying performing arts students who sing, shout, and constantly call attention to themselves. But turns out, they’re people too. It such a good atmosphere on set and most of the time we find ourselves sitting around talking about films and all kinds of stuff like you do with your best friends. We spend around twelve or so hours together a day, so we’ve all grown pretty close. Everyone’s there for the right reason. No one’s being paid, we’re all just there to make a film. It’s about the art, not the money. If it does ever make and money then we get a share of the profits, but that’s a long time away from possibly happening.
My job has also been to film behind the scenes footage and take still photos. I’ve filmed about three hours worth of footage and two hundred pictures. Pete (the other PA) was going to edit it all together and make a documentary for the bonus features of the DVD. But he had a fall out with the director (we haven’t been told why) and is no longer involved with the production, leaving me to do the editing. Kick ass. So now when the filming finishes on Wednesday, I’ll still be able to do something constructive.
I now need to get back to working a ‘real’ job which looks set to be my local Blockbuster store. I’ve been living off the bare minimum and have accumulated a £200 debt but it’s all been worth it. If I’d stayed in Woolworths, what would I have to show for it besides a discount card and a bit of spending money? From this film, I’ll have a finished piece that I can keep forever, show people, and be proud of. So many people want to do this kind of work and never will, so I couldn’t have turned down my chance. What better time to chase your dreams than when your young and have no responsibilities? I’ve followed my dreams and this is only the beginning.
So to all you people who would love to get involved with this kind of work, it is possible. It's going on everywhere, all the time. You just have to get yourself out there and find it. I now also have a book of contacts, which I'm sure we'll make it easier to find work in the future.
I’ll keep you posted on the film. We’re obviously hoping for a theatrical release but I think a straight to DVD is more likely. I also hear that if there’s no distribution deal, it’s almost defiantly going on the BBC. I hope for the best as the better it does, the better it is for me and all the others who have worked so hard.
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Cheers for your support guys. It’s great to have people read these posts through and reply so positively. It’s really encouraging.
Right, last night went very well. 15 films were shown in total, all of them gold. They were all made in the South and it just shows how much interesting talent we have in this country. Documentaries, dramas, comedies, animation, everything. One of them even had an ex-Home and Away actor.
Afterwards it was off for drinks. Had a bit of meaningless chatter with the crew from my film but that soon faded out as we never really connected (like I did with the first crew). After already cashing in my free drink voucher, I went and bought some more drinks at ridiculous prices.
I got talking to a local director and his mate about the films we had worked on and what was in the pipeline. After speaking to him about my cartoon he told me there was someone who I should speak to. Unfortunately he'd already left, so instead he gave me his card and said he'll put me in touch with him. When it came time for them to leave, he introduced me to a voice actor from one of the documentaries. Again we talked and I ended up taking his details for when I'm ready to go into production on my animation. We then went and talked to three ladies from Screen South (the organisation that helped fund and organise the films) and I got another card and was told they may be able to help me out with some funding.
Today I work up without a hangover, a VHS of the film, two cards, and a phone number. I think it went well.
Right, last night went very well. 15 films were shown in total, all of them gold. They were all made in the South and it just shows how much interesting talent we have in this country. Documentaries, dramas, comedies, animation, everything. One of them even had an ex-Home and Away actor.
Afterwards it was off for drinks. Had a bit of meaningless chatter with the crew from my film but that soon faded out as we never really connected (like I did with the first crew). After already cashing in my free drink voucher, I went and bought some more drinks at ridiculous prices.
I got talking to a local director and his mate about the films we had worked on and what was in the pipeline. After speaking to him about my cartoon he told me there was someone who I should speak to. Unfortunately he'd already left, so instead he gave me his card and said he'll put me in touch with him. When it came time for them to leave, he introduced me to a voice actor from one of the documentaries. Again we talked and I ended up taking his details for when I'm ready to go into production on my animation. We then went and talked to three ladies from Screen South (the organisation that helped fund and organise the films) and I got another card and was told they may be able to help me out with some funding.
Today I work up without a hangover, a VHS of the film, two cards, and a phone number. I think it went well.
Sounds like you're well on your way :-)
Any need any *ahem* extras? Not for animation, obviously. That wouldn't work. But... well, you know what I mean.
Any need any *ahem* extras? Not for animation, obviously. That wouldn't work. But... well, you know what I mean.
Time being I'm not looking to start working on any films. I've got one in the real early stages of writing, but that'll be a while off yet. The feature I've written already ended up being a bit too complex for the type of budget I would be working with. At the moment, it's my animation that's top of my list. Soon I should hopefully be setting it up as a web comic while I raise the money and find the right person to animate a short piece with.
But yes, when I do start filming (or if I hear of anyone looking for extras) I'll let you know.
Is this the type of thing you'd like to get into too? Even if just for a hobby. You should check out the Shooting People site and get yourself signed up as a part-member. It's free that way and you get to see what's going on in your area.
But yes, when I do start filming (or if I hear of anyone looking for extras) I'll let you know.
Is this the type of thing you'd like to get into too? Even if just for a hobby. You should check out the Shooting People site and get yourself signed up as a part-member. It's free that way and you get to see what's going on in your area.
Well I do a bit of Am-dram for a local group. Have done it on and off since I was a kid. Being an extra just seems the next logical step. I only do it as a hobby, and that's all I want to keep doing it as.
I'll have to have a look at that site.
I'll have to have a look at that site.
The local director I was speaking to at the party emailed his friend about me and he got in touch the other day. He's also a director but mainly wants to get into animation. He's looking to get a few projects off the ground and is looking for writers for a cartoon series he's developing. Sounds promising. Think I'm going to be meeting up with him in the near future to discuss ideas.
Got an invitation through today for the screening of the first film I worked on. It's at the same venue as the last one then onto somewhere else to get drunk. Should be great as I really got on with the cast and crew of this one. Plus it's a feature film unlike the last one which was only 10 minutes long.
The production companies site has been updated with both production and film stills [URL]http://www.creativegold.co.uk/Films.htm[/URL]
I'm also a bit annoyed as I noticed a previously unread Shooting People newsletter had a crew call for a short film shooting in Oxford tomorrow. I got in touch but was pretty sure I would be too late. Haven't heard anything yet so I'm guessing it's not going to happen.
Got an invitation through today for the screening of the first film I worked on. It's at the same venue as the last one then onto somewhere else to get drunk. Should be great as I really got on with the cast and crew of this one. Plus it's a feature film unlike the last one which was only 10 minutes long.
The production companies site has been updated with both production and film stills [URL]http://www.creativegold.co.uk/Films.htm[/URL]
I'm also a bit annoyed as I noticed a previously unread Shooting People newsletter had a crew call for a short film shooting in Oxford tomorrow. I got in touch but was pretty sure I would be too late. Haven't heard anything yet so I'm guessing it's not going to happen.
You know, I always read this thread every time you update it and find it interesting, however I rarely offer any feedback. Mostly because you don't seem to need any kind of guidance as you're doing bloody brilliant for yourself.
Might I add how refreshing it is to see someone recognise what they want to do and get up off their ass and have a go at it that sitting and moaning it's too hard. Well done you.
Might I add how refreshing it is to see someone recognise what they want to do and get up off their ass and have a go at it that sitting and moaning it's too hard. Well done you.
Cheers.
Good things seem to be coming my way as another job has come up around here. That's two in a week which is the best I've seen yet. This one's a science video. I'm not sure what exactly it covers but it's a pilot for what they hope is to be a series. It's unpaid as usual but if it goes well, a full time paying gig may follow.
I heard back about the other one and it was held back until today and tomorrow. Why am I not there now? Well I got back to them asking for location and time details and didn't hear anything again. It all seems pretty unorginised. Maybe it's held back again due to the weather, we'll see but I doubt I'll get involved with it.
Booked a holiday to New York in September, I have Reading coming up, and moneys starting to run low (although I'm making a killing on eBay) so I really need to find some form of paying work. I see my old Woolworths is looking for people but I really don't want to go back there. I'm not expecting paid film work (although it be great) I just want some income.
Good things seem to be coming my way as another job has come up around here. That's two in a week which is the best I've seen yet. This one's a science video. I'm not sure what exactly it covers but it's a pilot for what they hope is to be a series. It's unpaid as usual but if it goes well, a full time paying gig may follow.
I heard back about the other one and it was held back until today and tomorrow. Why am I not there now? Well I got back to them asking for location and time details and didn't hear anything again. It all seems pretty unorginised. Maybe it's held back again due to the weather, we'll see but I doubt I'll get involved with it.
Booked a holiday to New York in September, I have Reading coming up, and moneys starting to run low (although I'm making a killing on eBay) so I really need to find some form of paying work. I see my old Woolworths is looking for people but I really don't want to go back there. I'm not expecting paid film work (although it be great) I just want some income.
If you ever hear of any writing jobs going spare that you don't want for yourself then let me know. [[email protected]] I'm willing to work for free and stuff in my spare time and I'm dedicated and obviouslt talentful at making up new words which is always an asset.
Best of luck with this new stuff too - hope you get the break you deserve, you seem dedicated enough. Sure New York will be fun, you'll get a cameo role on something or other, everyone in New York does.
What is it you're making a killing on eBay with?
Best thing you could do work-wise is get something slightly relevent to media to put on your CV. Any kind of media really, it's all interlinked. Even a PR jobby for a crappy company links to media and advertising, links to target audience, links to film and media. If you've going to be a checkout boy that'll impress nobody. You could come and write for my website but quite frankly I don't have one.
G'luck buddy.
Best of luck with this new stuff too - hope you get the break you deserve, you seem dedicated enough. Sure New York will be fun, you'll get a cameo role on something or other, everyone in New York does.
What is it you're making a killing on eBay with?
Best thing you could do work-wise is get something slightly relevent to media to put on your CV. Any kind of media really, it's all interlinked. Even a PR jobby for a crappy company links to media and advertising, links to target audience, links to film and media. If you've going to be a checkout boy that'll impress nobody. You could come and write for my website but quite frankly I don't have one.
G'luck buddy.
eBay I'm selling DVDs and CDs (all official).
Well it looks like I'm working tomorrow. Got an email about the film that's going on today and tomorrow with a number to ring. Phoned up the director and he seemed friendly enough. Filming was called off today due to bad weather so it's all going to be squeezed in tomorrow. Turns out the person I've been emailing about animation is helping out too, which will be good.
Going to have to get up earlyish tomorrow as he's calling to confirm info.
Going to have to get up earlyish tomorrow as he's calling to confirm info.
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