The Hollywood Film Conference
I was lucky enough to get a pass (Thanks Skip) to attend the Hollywood Film Conference "2000" here in (where else) Hollywood. Now, being someone who has worked in film, I was a bit skeptical as to how useful these types of conferences are. However, since I have never really gone to anything of this nature and had nothing better to do, I went.
I have to admit, at first, I was bored. These people up on stage, agents, managers, development people, writers, producers and the like, were basically saying things I knew. Things I have learned from friends, read in books and on-line. There is no one-way into the industry, no sure way to get in. No sure way to have your scripts read (if that is what you want) or movies made or just to get in as a laborer. Just about all of them said the truth and for that I was very pleased. Being on the internet a lot, you can get this freeing that there are many easy ways into Hollywood. The truth is, there really isn't. I know, there have been those that have busted in quickly but I assure you that is mostly luck. So, can you make it in the Biz? Can it be done? Sure. However, you have a better chance the more work you put into it, no matter what your field or what business you are in, I assume this holds true. It's just a matter of time, getting to know people and getting better at what you do.
As the conference went on and I got to see more and more people, more personalities, more discussions and different points of view, I really started to enjoy it. I even learned a few things. One of the things I really picked up on is, this is a business of personalities. It's a business that is forged in friendships and likable people. Like a lot of businesses, you want to surround yourself with people who can do the job but you also want people you can stomach on a day to day basis. Likable people. That's what they seemed like, sort of little stars in there own little way. The "in" crowd, the cool people. They are in a business that you want in on and they know it. So they want people around they like. May not be fair but it's the way it is. Talking about personalities...
There was this really great exchange between Robert Kosberg "The Pitch King of Hollywood" and Teddy Zee "President of Davis Entertainment Features". Boy did they go at it. They were debating what was worth more and what you should spend more time working on, a script or an idea. I have to admit, having a script is a better overall idea but if it's built around a really bad idea, well, I don't see it getting anywhere. It was one of the more interesting panels and brought the point home. What is the right way to make it in this business? There really isn't a right path you can take, there are just paths. They could be right, they might be wrong but you have to be smart enough to know when something isn't working and move on. Try another way in. I can go on and on about this but most of what they said is available right from your browser, on maybe sites and also in many books.
What I got out of it? What I think you need to make it? Well, first you have to be in it for the long haul. Then you have to be willing to learn and be flexible. Then you have to be good with people and I can stress this enough. Then there's always hard work. What was that Edison quote? "10% inspiration and 90% perspiration." Oh and it helps to love movies and love story telling. You might have to be willing to try anything and try your best. Keep working on your skill, craft or effectiveness. If you are not scared off yet, then you might have a future in this business and you still might not make it. That is the biggest thing, you still might not make it, no matter what the hell you do. If you can deal with that, then I think you have a great shot at making it. If not, I know of a good truck driving school.
Honcho
