So, you want to become a director but don’t know where to start? Here is a path that can help set you on the right course.
Step 1: Write Your Way into the Business
A great first step is to write your way into the industry. As a storyteller, one of the most powerful skills you can develop is writing. Learning to write well takes time, sometimes even a decade, but it is one of the best ways to make a name for yourself.
If writing scripts does not feel like your path, there is another option: become the “idea person.” Focus on developing great story concepts and find a skilled writer to collaborate with. But here is the catch, do not fall in love with your first idea. The key to finding a truly great concept is to generate a lot of them. The more you create, the more chances you have to land on something exceptional.
Remember, ideas float around us all the time, but the trick is putting yourself in a position to catch them. It is not usually something that happens in a planned way but rather in a state of being. The best ideas often emerge from moments of admiration and surprise, rather than from strict planning or formulaic approaches. As Obi-Wan Kenobi said, “Use your feelings.” He was right.
Step 2: Prove Yourself as a Director
Once you have crafted a script you are passionate about, the next step is to get the industry to notice you as a director. But here is the challenge: without a proven track record, convincing a production company to let you direct your own project can be an uphill battle. So how do you make them take you seriously?
The answer is simple: create a short film that truly stands out. It needs to be visually stunning, with top-notch cinematography, and it should look and feel like a high-quality feature film, even if it is only 5 to 7 minutes long. Pay close attention to details like scene blocking, the use of lenses, and lighting, and work creatively with your actors to bring out their best performances. This short film is not just a project, it is your calling card, your proof of concept that showcases your talent and potential as a director. Keep your film concise. If it runs over 10 minutes, you risk losing your audience’s interest. Producers and agents are busy, they want to assess your work quickly and move on to the next task on their agenda.
Step 3: Leverage Your Short Film
With a polished short film and a solid script in hand, you are now in a powerful position. Production companies will be far more likely to consider your project when they can see your directing talent. Your production partner can now pitch your project to talent agencies using your short film as the centerpiece. This will help attract the right cast and secure financing for your film.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a director is not easy, and success does not come from instant gratification or socializing before you have earned it. You have to be a maniac about your work and your goals (but stay nice to one another). Focus on honing your skills, crafting compelling ideas, and putting in the hard work to turn your dream into reality. Only then can you become outstanding. With the right preparation and a standout short film, you will be well on your way to becoming the next great director.
Good luck, and happy filmmaking!
