“The last of the Mahicans.”

indie

In the world of Indie filmmaking, music, theatre, etc., there are so many people out in the world like never before. But the question is how long will these Indies stick around. Because being independent sounds good, until it’s time to make money. Then people would be more than happy to be with a  major name behind them.

So if it’s so hard for people to push their projects independently, then why are so many in a foot race to do so?

control control control

The reason why so many are in a foot race to be indie is because they want to have more creative control over their work. When the is a big name behind, there is the illusion of you having say. But in reality, you have limited to no say because they are generally the main financial backers. Another reason people become indie is control over the narrative of the story they’re telling.

If your stories left in the hands of others, it may come across as weak, or less than what you would have brought to it.

the grind

Being the boss sounds goo to people, but do you always want to be? Because I can tell you first hand from writing, directing, and producing a short film that it’s a lot because it was just me. You are trying to first tell a compelling story. That in and of itself is a tough feat. But if you manage to get past that, then you have the other aspect of the grind.

An that is coming up with ingenious ways to raise funding for your projects. Trust and believe the work is not done there because if it’s to be profitable, then you have to know how to market your project. But even after that, you’re not rolling in dough even if it is a big project. Because chances are you need to put that money back in for the next project.

play it safe or go hard

Before you step out there into Indie world, know that it is a grind that takes years. And be prepared for rejection after rejection after rejection. It could take you 10 – 20 years to be the person you want to be. So know that and work; and if it’s still worth it keep fighting.

My Personal Website: www.faheemjackson.squarespace.com

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