Filmmaking / Directing

“Denis Villeneuve made these two magnificent ‘Dune’ films and apparently these films make themselves because he wasn’t considered as a director, not even by the Director’s Guild. Like okay, you can play the awards game or you can play the game I like to play and that’s to make movies people actually go to. Sorry!”

What do you think of James Cameron’s criticism of the Academy and that apparently the ‘Dune’ films must have made themselves? ;-)

Is the science-fiction genre overlooked - like the horror genre - and no matter how successful the box office is for those films, it doesn’t seem to count for those who vote for the Oscars?

https://variety.com/2025/film/news/james-cameron-slams-oscars-denis-vill...

As far as I know, the best options for creating ‘scenery’ as a background for film production are being done with ‘text to video’ prompts. Does anyone know if any cutting-edge technologies are being developed? Using text prompts is a challenging task of crafting just the right wording. As I understand it, the technology is getting closer to AI being able to decipher an actual picture. This would be a much easier solution to creating backgrounds that could make the large LED screens used in ‘Batman’ and the like become obsolete.

“In February 2024, filmmaker and producer Tyler Perry announced that he was indefinitely halting a planned $800 million expansion of his studio in Atlanta, Georgia. Perry cited the rapid advancements in AI-generated imagery and video—specifically OpenAI's text-to-video model, Sora—as the primary reason for the decision”.

If the next generation of Sora, or similar AI, can produce a realistic background from still images or existing video, the entire film production will be revolutionized. Films can be produced on sound stages with live actors at a fraction of the cost. Furthermore, if the technology can be devised to scan and track the actors on the sound stage, the AI could potentially create a virtual scene. For instance, if the actors run toward the back-stage wall, the background could potentially adjust to the depth perception. If the sound stage is large enough, this kind of AI-generated background could replace CGI.

Any thoughts or updates about this?

QUOTE: “Filmmaking is a team sport, and like every team sport, communication is incredibly important for success. Learn how to explain your vision to your fellow filmmakers; it doesn't matter if you're a director, cinematographer, audio engineer, editor, or whatever. The better you communicate, the closer your final product will resemble your original vision.” Ryan Booth

Filmmaking is often compared to a team sport because it requires an intense group effort for success. It relies on the expertise and dedication of a creative and technical team (from director to production assistants) working together towards a shared vision to create memorable films.

The filmmaking process involves constant communication and cooperation among all departments that have specialized skills to ensure the film is crafted with precision. The director, like a coach, guides and inspires the crew, while producers manage resources and logistics.

Mutual respect and trust among team members are also essential, just as in sports. Successful filmmakers value each individual’s contribution, embracing a team-oriented approach where creativity can thrive, and that helps filmmakers overcome challenges and solve all problems.

Teamwork-Teamwork-Teamwork

1. Creative Synergy: When talented individuals collaborate, their collective creativity often sparks innovative ideas and solutions. Brainstorming sessions, discussions, and feedback loops encourage a dynamic, creative environment where ideas can flourish and evolve.

This synergy often leads to unique perspectives and approaches that might not emerge when working in isolation, enhancing the creative output. Collaborative efforts can also break down creative blocks, providing fresh inspiration and motivation for all team members.

2. Diverse Expertise: Filmmaking involves various specialized roles, from directing and cinematography to sound design and editing. Each member of the team brings unique skills and knowledge to the table, contributing to the overall quality of the production.

This diversity ensures that every aspect of the film is handled with expertise, leading to a polished and professional final product. It also allows for a more comprehensive approach to problem-solving, as different perspectives can lead to more effective solutions.

3. Efficient Communication: Clear and consistent communication is essential in filmmaking to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Directors, producers, cinematographers, and other departments must constantly exchange ideas and updates to avoid misunderstandings.

Efficient communication reduces mistakes, enhances collaboration, and ensures that all team members are connected with the project's vision. It also enables quicker problem-solving, as issues can be addressed immediately, minimizing downtime and keeping the production on track.

4. Emotional Support: The demanding nature of filmmaking can take a toll on individuals, both physically and emotionally. A supportive team provides encouragement, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging by maintaining morale during tough times.

This support system can reduce stress and prevent burnout, enabling team members to perform at their best. A positive and supportive environment can also enhance creativity and productivity, making the filmmaking process more enjoyable and fulfilling.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Filmmaking often involves unpredictable circumstances, such as changing weather conditions or last-minute script revisions. A professional team can adapt quickly to these challenges, improvising solutions and adjusting their approach to meet evolving needs.

This flexibility ensures that production can continue smoothly despite unforeseen obstacles, maintaining the project's momentum. Being adaptable also encourages innovation, as team members may develop new techniques or strategies in response to challenges.

Next article: Filmmaking is a Team Sport (pt2)

From a directing perspective, when developing a character-driven drama, how early do you expect a script to be solid before moving into pre-production discussions?

Here we go, the first trailer for Spielberg’s new film, ‘Disclosure Day’, which takes him back into the world of aliens and UFOs!

Set for a June 12th, 2026 release, I will be eager to see this film. How about you?

https://youtu.be/UFe6NRgoXCM

https://youtu.be/KkLL-8xosqw

Here, I share my thoughts on how Pluribus's slow storytelling feels interesting. Do share your thoughts.

Here are 50 tips I believe you need to have, learn or nurture to help you work and survive in the film and television business today:

41. Protect Your Reputation: Uphold professional integrity and treat others with respect. A good reputation can lead to more opportunities, while a bad reputation can close doors.

42. Stay Healthy: The demanding nature of film production can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Prioritize self-care, including regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient rest. A healthy lifestyle enhances your ability to handle the industry's demands.

43. Stay Informed: Keep up with industry news, trends, and technological advancements. This knowledge can help you stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing field.

44. Seek Mentorship: Find experienced professionals who can offer guidance, advice, and support. Mentors can help you navigate the industry, avoid common pitfalls, and accelerate your career growth.

45. Stay Organized: Use project management tools and keep meticulous records of your work, schedules, and contacts. Staying organized helps you manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently. Consistent organization minimizes stress and enhances productivity.

46. Stay True to Your Artistic Vision: Be mindful of audience expectations. Find a balance between creative expression and commercial viability. Trusting your instincts while remaining open to collaboration can help you create work that connects both artistically and commercially.

47. Stay Updated on Industry Trends: New technologies and filmmaking techniques are continuously emerging. Take workshops, courses, and seminars to enhance your skills and stay ahead in the industry.

48. Treat Everyone with Respect: Build strong relationships with everyone to create a positive working environment. Filmmaking is a collaborative process, and strong relationships enhance the production quality.

49. Understand the Legal Aspects: Including contracts, copyright, and distribution rights. Seeking legal advice when necessary ensures your work is protected and compliant.

50. And Finally - You Need to Have Passion and Enthusiasm: These are the driving forces behind your creative endeavors and will sustain you through the inevitable challenges of the filmmaking process. Passion fuels creativity, motivates you to push boundaries, and inspires others. Passion keeps you motivated and focused on your goals - because some days, passion may be the only thing that will keep you going!

Hey Filmmaking Lounge,

This week, my creative growth hasn’t looked like learning something new. It’s looked like learning how to carry a lot at once, trusting that my creativity is still there even when I’m tired, and reminding myself that preparation is part of the process.

Between packing, painting, wrapping up end-of-year work, preparing for a move, and laying groundwork for 2026, my brain has been pretty full. There hasn’t been much extra bandwidth for big creative breakthroughs or deep dives into new techniques. And that’s okay.

What this week has reinforced for me is that growth doesn’t always show up as momentum or inspiration. Sometimes it shows up as endurance. As learning how to stay steady when life gets loud. As trusting that the creative part of you doesn’t disappear just because it’s temporarily in maintenance mode.

Preparation counts. Systems count. Rest counts. Carrying the load now makes room for creative clarity later.

What about you?

What has creative growth looked like for you this week? Has it been learning something new, or simply learning how to keep going, recalibrate, or give yourself permission to slow down?

As creatives, our work is shaped not just by what we make, but by how we move through these in-between seasons. I’d love to hear what yours has looked like.

I’m a Liz Garbus fan and thought this was great: https://filmmakermagazine.com/132592-interview-liz-garbus-documentary-2025/

I’m sharing my experience with the recent ReelShort contest because I’m genuinely trying to understand whether I’m missing something.

I entered the contest hoping to catch ReelShort’s attention and potentially pitch an original series. That’s why I submitted projects across different genres.

Although there was a public voting phase, the rules stated that the final decision would be made by a professional jury.

Some of you supported my entries here—thank you. For those who haven’t seen them:

https://tinyurl.com/16suspense

https://tinyurl.com/49beyondgenres

https://tinyurl.com/48beyondgenres

After reviewing the final results, I noticed that the top entry in the Suspense category violated two stated rules: it wasn’t vertical, and it wasn’t a complete work—it was a pilot episode.

Judge it yourself: https://tinyurl.com/1suspense

Meanwhile, my project Shadows of the Departed was rejected twice for being a pilot, forcing me to rewrite and change the ending just to be accepted.

While my entries placed 48 and 49 in Beyond Genres, I was surprised to see very amateur submissions ranking higher—such as the 16th-place entry, which consisted of a camera set against a computer monitor displaying a PowerPoint presentation as a background, with simple paper cut-out figures mounted on sticks moved in front of the lens. The result felt almost like a narrative device one would expect in a comedy script, where the protagonist puts in genuine effort only to be outperformed by something deliberately absurd.

See for yourself: https://tinyurl.com/16beyondgenres

More than a month after the winners were announced, the prize I was told I had won still hasn’t been paid, which only adds to my concerns. I also contacted ReelShort’s PR department and have not received a response so far.

I genuinely want feedback. If you think I’m wrong, tell me. Has anyone else had a similar experience?

California just awarded $116.2 million in tax credits to 28 new films, part of its expanded $750 million annual fund to keep Hollywood productions local. It was announced that 38 films were part of the tax incentive but we now have an in-depth breakdown of which independent and non-independent films are receiving the grant!

Some studio headliners include a Snoop Dogg biopic (Universal, $17 million), Ang Lee's "Gold Mountain" ($7.6 million), a Glen Powell-produced film (Sony, $9.9 million), and Gina Rodriguez's "Guerrero" ($4.4 million).

The state estimates this round will generate over $562 million in spending and create thousands of jobs. It's California's major play to stop productions from leaving for other states and countries.

Read more about the incentives here! https://deadline.com/2025/12/california-tax-credits-films-1236650657/