Let’s start this entry by painting a picture:
You’ve sat up all night next to your editor, making certain that every bit of polish is in the right place. The score sounds fantastic, the shots are just the right length, the performances are better than you remember them being on set.
It’s official. You’ve made a movie.
Your mind races with all the possibilities. You don’t really need to submit to any local showcases, do you?
You believe that your little film has a long set of legs. There are film festivals all around the world; it’s difficult to imagine how each of them wouldn’t have a slot for your baby open.
Well, that’s not always the case. There are many filmmakers, and an even greater number of films being slipped into submission envelopes as we speak. Your fellow directors are hatching the same kind of global plans that you have. The competition is going to be extremely tough, and will become even more narrow as the screeners pile up on the judges’ desks.
There is also the very real possibility that you are making an oversight. The truth is that you are a “local filmmaker.” You pulled together a team that consisted of family, friends, and completely home grown talent. Believe it or not, you are an excellent example to your peers of what can be accomplished.
The other important truth to consider is this: Your individual point of view has been shaped by your surroundings. The stories you tell are most likely influenced by your observations of your home town, even if you don’t realize that.
On top of that, have you had a chance to meet other local filmmakers? These are the people who attend local festivals. There is an opportunity to find colleagues to work with, and who are simpatico to your vision. The film industry thrives on collaboration, and that can happen at home as well as Los Angeles.
Now here’s the icing on the cake: The Santa Fe Film Festival is offering a discount to all New Mexico filmmakers until August 31. New Mexico-made film submissions will receive a 60% discount on short film submissions, and a 40% discount on feature film submissions. Email info@https://santafefilmfestival.com/index for details on how to submit your film and receive the discount.
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Director Dusty McGowan on the set of “Mickey.”
