Make Your First Film: MUST WATCH for Documentary Filmmaking

Summary

This video script emphasizes the importance of 'assertive documentary filmmaking' over 'aimless filmmaking'. It outlines four key questions filmmakers should ask to ensure compelling storytelling: identifying whether they have a story with conflict, establishing a clear main character early on, ensuring the character has a desire, and being able to visually depict their journey. The speaker promises an in-depth documentary master class covering various aspects of filmmaking, aiming to simplify the process for aspiring filmmakers.

Takeaways

• 🎥 Aimless filmmaking is characterized by a focus on gear and shooting without a clear plan, whereas assertive documentary filmmaking is a more structured approach to ensure compelling storytelling.
• 📝 Assertive filmmaking involves asking critical questions at all stages of the film production to guarantee the best possible story and audience engagement.
• ❓ The first key question for filmmakers is to determine if they have a story with conflict rather than just a topic. A story should involve a character with a clear desire or goal and a journey to achieve it.
• 🏃‍♂️ The second question is about identifying a main character early in the film, ideally within the first 5-10%, to establish who the audience will follow on the journey.
• 🤔 The third question challenges filmmakers to ensure their characters have a clear desire or need that drives the narrative, as characters without wants lack depth.
• 🔍 The fourth question is about the feasibility of showing the character's journey, including their rise in tension and attempts to achieve their desires, which is essential for a compelling story.
• 🎬 The importance of having access to the character's life and being able to capture key moments is highlighted as a prerequisite for telling their story effectively.
• 📚 The script emphasizes the value of a checklist and self-honesty when evaluating the strength of a story, even suggesting the need to change direction or find a new story if necessary.
• 📽️ The speaker shares personal experience with the documentary 'Transcend' as an example of a successful story-driven film, illustrating the importance of conflict and character development.
• 👥 The mention of the documentary '9/11 Kids' serves to illustrate the importance of establishing the main character early and setting the stage for their narrative.
• 📈 The script introduces an upcoming documentary master class that will delve deeper into topics like story crafting, funding, research, character finding, and shooting techniques.
• 📣 The speaker invites interested individuals to join an early bird waitlist for the master class, emphasizing the limited availability and the comprehensive nature of the course.

Q & A

What is the main difference between aimless filmmaking and assertive documentary filmmaking as discussed in the video?

Aimless filmmaking is characterized by a focus on cameras and gear without a clear direction, often resulting in hope for the best outcome. Assertive documentary filmmaking, on the other hand, is a methodical approach that ensures the best possible story is captured at all stages, leading to a more compelling film and a better chance of gaining an audience.

Why are the four questions mentioned in the video important for filmmakers?

These four questions are crucial as they set the foundation for a successful film. They help filmmakers clarify the purpose and direction of their film, ensuring that the story is compelling and has a clear narrative arc, which is essential for engaging an audience.

What does the video suggest is the key to a good story in filmmaking?

The key to a good story is conflict. A story should involve a character who wants something and goes on a journey to achieve it, learning something along the way. This is in contrast to a topic, which may be aimless and lack these narrative traits.

Can you provide an example from the video of a film that was successful due to its story?

The film 'Transcend' is given as an example. It was successful because it followed the story of Wesley Korir, a Boston Marathon runner who attempted to get elected in the Kenyan parliament as an independent candidate, a journey filled with conflict and desire.

What is the importance of having a main character in a documentary film?

A main character is essential as it provides the audience with someone to journey with. It helps establish who the film is about and allows the audience to connect emotionally with the story being told.

According to the video, what should be clear within the first five to ten percent of the film?

The identity of the main character should be clear within the first five to ten percent of the film. This helps set the stage for the audience to understand who they will be following and what their journey will entail.

What does Aaron Sorkin's quote imply about characters in a film?

Aaron Sorkin's quote implies that for a character to be considered a character in a film, they must want something. This desire drives the narrative and gives the character depth and purpose.

What is the significance of a character's desire in a film according to the video?

A character's desire is significant because it propels the story forward. It creates tension and conflict, which are essential for keeping the audience engaged and invested in the narrative.

Why is showing the journey of the character important in documentary filmmaking?

Showing the journey of the character is important because it allows the audience to witness the rise in tension, the struggle, and the resolution. This journey, with a clear beginning, middle, and end, is what constitutes a compelling story.

What does the video suggest filmmakers should do if they find that their chosen character does not have a clear desire?

If the character's desire is not clear, the video suggests that filmmakers should either find out what the character wants or consider choosing a different character whose desire can drive the narrative.

What is the upcoming documentary master class mentioned in the video about, and how can interested individuals join?

The upcoming documentary master class will delve deeper into topics such as crafting stories, funding, researching, finding interesting characters, and shooting techniques. Interested individuals can join by signing up on the early bird wait list, as there are limited spots available.