Filmmaking Tips for the Independent Filmmaker

This article is not about how to write a good screenplay. It is about how to make the best film – from the script you have now – by understanding the key elements that make up a good story. As filmmaking technology gets better and more sophisticated every year, it has given filmmakers all over […] Read the full article →

What Makes Good Story – Part One INTRO: This article is not about how to write a good screenplay. It is about how to make the best film – from the script you have now – by understanding the key elements that make up a good story. As filmmaking technology gets better and more sophisticated […] Read the full article →

IMPORTANT: I have updated my internet Privacy Policy to comply with the new European Union (EU) GDPR rules that came into effect on May 25, 2018. These Policies explain your rights under the new GDPR Guidelines. If you continue to visit this website and/or stay as a subscriber to any of my email lists after […] Read the full article →

UPDATE: I had a great time in Auckland, New Zealand  (February 21 & 22, 2018) giving a 2-part workshop called “The 6 Essential Stages for Casting Actors” at the Yoobee School of Design and Film. Great group of passionate filmmakers and actors. 🙂 ===================================== ===================================== NEW ZEALAND FILMMAKERS: I will be giving a 2-part workshop […] Read the full article →

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: In January 2015 I received a message from Michael Wiese (film book publisher) who asked me if I would like to write a film directing book. Oh yeah!!!! Well…two years later, “Making the Magic Happen – The Art and Craft of Film Directing” has just been published and is now for sale on […] Read the full article →

“There are no rules in filmmaking. Only sins! And the cardinal sin is dullness.” Frank Capra As a filmmaker, I’ve been working professionally in the film and TV business for over 40 years, primarily as a Director and a 1st AD. During that time, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of productions: […] Read the full article →

In February, 2011, I directed the last film in a series from the EBM program of the Vancouver Film School called “Steampunk Neverland.” I am using my filmmaking blog as my weekly journal to demonstrate what a director goes through during the three production phases of a film. My goal with this journal is to […] Read the full article →

This article is from my “Script Breakdown and Film Scheduling Online Course For Independent Filmmakers” – a 160 page manual that takes you, step-by-step, through the proper process of breaking down a script and creating a realistic shooting schedule. I have learned many things during my career in the film industry, but one of the […] Read the full article →