Introduce Yourself : First Production in a While by James P Gleason

James P Gleason

First Production in a While

Hi, All! My name is Jim, I'm a writer/director based in Los Angeles (but I'll always be a Chicago boy - Go Cubs!)

It's been a few years since my thesis film (meaning I need a new directing sample or two) and most of my film school network is mid-career now, so I need a new NETWORK. I'm ready to do the WORK but I might need some help spreading the NET. Who wants to play? Happy to help anyone else in your diabolical misadventures. (I know, I posted something like this last year, but then I dropped back into writing mode).

I'm looking to shoot a gruesomely dark comedy short in the next few months (single (stage) location plus a parking lot).

Last time, my crew was mostly classmates and we were all under the protection of the film school's legal paperwork, agreements and insurance. This time will obviously be different. Methinks I'm in need of a producer! (but that's for the Jobs section) Aside from that, my eyes and ears are open! Pitfalls? Common gotchas? I'm mostly worried about what I DON'T know to look out for. I could learn a lot by helping some of you-all on your projects!

Emily J

Hi James P Gleason! Have you checked out the Stage 32 Short Film Contest? One of the projects you currently have might be a great fit! https://rb.gy/qieti

Maurice Vaughan

Hey, James P Gleason. Stage 32 put out a great blog about networking a few days ago (www.stage32.com/blog/5-tips-to-make-more-valuable-networking-opportuniti...). Hope it helps spread your NET.

GiGi Raines

Hi James, love your enthusiasm to get going! I agree with Emily the short film contest is a great way to build some momentum around your work! Welcome to the community, stay active in the lounges, and you'll find your tribe. Maurice is certainly a testament to that!

James P Gleason

Thank you Emily/Gigi and Maurice - the short film contest. (sigh) Too bad my last film is more than a wee bit older than three years (absurdly more than a wee bit).

And Maurice, thank you for pointing out that post on networking (which I did see, but is a valuable resource), and I needed the pep talk from RB's quick vid on networking for those who are apprehensive about networking! Those two items got me to jump back on here this weekend. I've got to make it more of a habit!

I'm sure that like everything else, comfort will come with practice. It's like learning how to merge in with traffic on the freeway. I find myself sitting there on the on-ramp sometimes. Go merge!

I appreciate all this positivity and encouragement! Thank you, all!

Maurice Vaughan

You're welcome, James P Gleason. RB's videos are great insight, advice, and pep talks. Yeah, networking will become easier as you practice. It did for me. Go merge -- I mean network! :D

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