Introduce Yourself : My drama is waiting for me. Can you help? by Ralph Patterson

Ralph Patterson

My drama is waiting for me. Can you help?

I am investigating avenues for producing my 40-page short film. I come from a mostly journalism and educational film background, though the educational films always carried a drama component. That is t not reenactment, but true drama. I have explored the possibility of virtual backgrounds to reduce costs, but I’d like to speak with someone who has experience. The first production would be a promo/teaser for the complete film.

Ralph Patterson

Thank you for this. Its a classic and practical strategy for festivals. However, a platform like FilmHub seems open to other lengths for their international market. I did try a ruthless cutting attempt of the story putting ego aside, but the cuts left me with mostly premise and little nuance. But, I'll take another view. I'm not trying to sell a pilot..

Jed Power

Would be perfect for me, Amanda, because I'm working on Adapting my novel, "The Boss of Hampton Beach". into a one- hour pilot. It is 1st novel in 8-book crime series.Too rich for my blood at this time, though. I'll keep it in mind, for, if and when, I get my feet back on the ground. Best, Jed.

Stephen Folker

Hi Ralph Patterson - congrats on writing a script! Generally short films are calling card projects. And to get into festivals, shorter is better. 5-15 minutes is a sweet spot. If you're going to do 40 pages, depending on how your script is formatted and the pacing of the story, that could easily be a 45 - 65 minute film. A page a min is not always accurate. Virtual backgrounds usually look corny depending on budget. You should PM me and I can share some ideas with you as I regularly produce small projects.

Either way, best wishes!

Maurice Vaughan

I think your comment was meant for a different post, Jed.

Sam Sokolow

Hi Ralph - it’s great to meet you here in the community! I’m the Director of Education here at Stage 32. If I can ever recommend any of our education for you or be of any help on your Stage 32 journey please reach out to me directly at edu@stage32.com. Also, here is a link to the Stage 32 education landing page so you can check out all of the webinars, classes and labs that are your fingertips as a community member: https://www.stage32.com/education

Niki H

Hi Ralph, welcome to Stage 32! Be sure to check out the producing lounge and bounce around ideas in there.

GiGi Raines

Hey Ralph! Welcome! Feel free to reach out to us at success@stage32.com to point you in the right direction for your next steps!

Sydney S

Ralph, great to have you in the community :-)

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