Jason Reitman: Things I’ve Learned as a Moviemaker

by Jason Reitman | Published December 6, 2007

1. Trust your script. It’s easy to fall in love with something that’s “set funny.” Trust the document that made you want to make the film, even if you wrote it yourself.

2. Make sure every scene has a beginning and ending. This could just mean someone closes a door behind them or puts down a telephone or enters frame. You don’t need to use it in editing, but more often than not, you’ll be happy to have it.

3. Be honest. Always ask yourself if the action/dialogue is honest and real to the situation and the characters. A funny line or a cool shot is not as important as preserving the tonal line of the film.

4. Be prepared. The morning of a shoot day, re-read the scene that precedes and follows the one you are shooting. It’s important to know where your characters just came from and where they are going.

5. Use a hard line on your headphones instead of a wireless set. You’ll hear the dialogue clearer, which is often a better way to measure a performance than watching it.

6. Don’t eat shellfish off the catering truck. Why chance it?

7. Relax. If you are lucky enough to be directing, your nightmares are other people’s dreams.

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Comment by jammer53 on 12/07/07 at 3:07 pm

this is something i never thought of in the context of making a movie, i knew the movie needs all 3 but its makes alot more sense to me that one must keep this thought in mind at all times have i left them hanging. thanks for the info.

Comment by vernelljesus on 1/22/08 at 8:46 pm

I have written three short films...Do no know anything about filming, cameras, etc....I just love to write
Clean Film with some wisdom, religion and a enlighting message....
Need funds, filmers and foundation in Film industry

Comment by Aaren J. Stewart on 2/07/08 at 1:35 am

As an aspiring screenwriter, I admire the work of Jason and the screenwriter for “Juno"---Diablo Coty. I saw the film, “Thank You For Not Smokin"---not knowing it was Jason’s directorial debut. He is an excellent director, and to go from ..."Thank You For Not Smoking”, to “Juno” shows great versatility. I understand Diablo is penning another script entitled “Girly Girl"---can’t wait to see it. Is Jason attached to direct? Aaren J. Stewart

Comment by mpw47 on 4/16/08 at 12:05 pm

I as many other Independent look for funds to shoot their movie. Its hard casting good talent if you live in asmall city. Then of course shooting the scenes. I am 57 and have been trying to shoot a feature for many years. I still don’t have a middle for my movie but in three years if I havn’t begun on my feature I will quit the film making business. I think Juno is one of the best Features made. Keep up the great work Mr. Reitman. By the way are you related to the Reitman family Clothing Store.....

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Contact person :Dr.Roger Thompson.
E-mail:
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