Hey, everybody else is writing Top 10 lists, here’s mine.
Top Ten Reasons to get into the film business.
1. There's no one right way to do it.
The film business is an ever-changing landscape, and there is no one right way to get into it. Whether you want to be a director, producer, or screenwriter, there are a multitude of ways to make your dream a reality.
You can choose your own adventure, and your success is dependent mostly on you and how hard you work and how creative and entrepreneurial you are.
The downside — if you like structure and security, this may not be the path for you — however, there are studio jobs and a lot of regular jobs supporting the film business and movie making.
2. You can tell stories that matter to you.
One of the most important things about the film business is that you can tell stories that matter to you, or that you want to work on, and maybe change the world. Whether you want to make a difference in the world or simply make an entertaining movie that gives people a laugh, filmmaking can be a powerful vehicle for doing just that.
Anybody can shoot a movie with their cell phone these days, post it on-line and promote it for very little money — and get discovered.
And you can support other filmmakers telling their tales as well.
3. It's a collaborative process.
You will have the opportunity to work with some of the most talented people in the world, Some are a little Type-A, that’s for sure, but you meet and work with some really amazing people. From directors and producers to actors and crew, everyone is important, and everyone interacts.
If you work on a Spielberg film, you will probably interact with him at some point.
Whether he’ll listen to your shot suggestions is another story, but who knows?
4. It's always changing.
The film business changes and turns over constantly and this means that there are always new opportunities for those who are willing to seize them.
Think about the transformation to film and digital and the birth of streaming. There are always people pushing the envelope and one of them could be you.
There is always something new to learn in this industry, especially now with the rise of computers, the internet and virtual production.
The downside is you have to stay alert and change as well or you may get left behind.
5. You can travel the world.
The film business is that gives you the opportunity to travel the world. Whether you're working on location or simply attending festivals and markets, there are many chances to see new places and meet new people.
This can be a downside if you have a family and have to stay away from your spouse and children and pets for extended periods of time, but if you’re young and single you can get months-long trips to other states and countries paid for on a project.
You’ll work crazy hours but also meet a lot of amazing local people and get to see and do cool stuff.
6. You can make a good living doing it.
It is possible to make a good living in the film business. If you're passionate about what you do and willing to work hard, you can achieve success. Union crews have benefits and are fairly well-paid (they might disagree.)
Of course, if you are a successful above-the-line person (Actor, Director, Producer) you can make a lot of money. Downside - Number 4 — It’s always changing.
You can drop off the radar quickly if you don’t have a hit or you get out of the loop.
7. It's exciting and fun.
Making films is an exciting and fun process, and it's also incredibly rewarding. Seeing your work on the big screen is an experience that few people get to enjoy, and it's something that you'll never forget.
The camaraderie developed on a film set can build life-long friendships and relationships.
8. You can be your own boss.
If you're tired of working for someone else and want more control over your career, then working in the film business may be a good option for you.
There are plenty of opportunities for those who want to be their own boss and call their own shots. From freelance work to owning your own production company, there are plenty of ways to be successful on your own terms.
9. You can wear whatever you want.
More or less. There is no dress code (except to dress comfortably and look good.) So, you don’t have to wear a suit and tie — though some directors like Eric Stoltz and Sam Raimi do that.
You can’t wear offensive tee-shirts and you should show some class, but you can express your individuality.
10. You can change the world
Great movies can change the conversation and the culture. You can be part of that. Not every film is going to be that impactful, but you can have more of a voice creating or crewing on a film or television show that has something to say.
Conclusion
If you want to be your own boss, travel the world and make a difference, then get into the film business. It’s not an easy road, but it can be one of the most rewarding careers out there. And who knows – maybe your indie film will take off and you too will become a household name.
But even if that doesn’t happen, you can still sleep well at night knowing that you took control of your life, followed your dreams and made them come true. Ready to make movies? Start by calling your local film office or packing up your bags and moving to Los Angeles, New York or Atlanta.
The opportunities in these cities are endless for those with talent and ambition.
So what are you waiting for?