If you have $$$ (or credit cards), have actors or friends and family you can cast to type, have a script that takes into account your access to things such as costumes and locations(and your script can even be written on index cards like Robert Rodriguez), have a video camera, and a computer with some type of editing software you can make a movie. Will it be a blockbuster or the next Blair Witch—probably not. Will anyone see it? Well with direct distribution via the internet or success at film festivals, you’ve got a good shot. Do you the time, discipline, thick skin, leadership, technical know how (or willingness to learn), and emotional strength to dedicate the next five years of your life to see it through to get this one film made and then repeat the process until you get noticed by producers who are willing to finance future projects?? That’s the real question!
State film incentives has made it much easier to learn and break into crew positions in places like Louisiana and New Mexico; additionally, Austin has a thriving film community and the San Francisco area is home to some huge post production specialty and CG houses. But for most writers, actors, or directors, living in Los Angeles is critical at least until you break in and make a name for yourself. In addition to the networking which is usually how most folks finally find their “in”, there are so many opportunities to learn about the business and the craft—in many cases for free if you know where to look. We tried the above and shot our first feature while living in Louisiana. Due to unfortunate circumstances (Hurricane Katrina) we ended up in Los Angeles. We’re making inroads much quicker since we moved and prior to moving we used to come out to Los Angeles about 8 times a year. I suppose the bottom line really is how much are you willing to do get where you want to go? You usually have to wear an awful lot of hats to be a do-it-yourself film maker - and usually then if there’s any recognition it goes to the director. Don’t know if this helps you any.
Just my opinion ...
Hawk
