30 Roads to Becoming a Movie Director: Inspiration for Aspiring Filmmakers
The journey of an aspiring movie director is far from linear, with countless paths to explore and master. From traditional film school education to unconventional routes, these stories of success offer invaluable insights. Whether you're just 17 or just beginning your journey, there are multiple avenues to rise to the top of your craft.
Traditional Pathways: Film School and Low-Level Roles
The conventional route often involves attending film school, graduating, and then securing a low-level assistant position at a film production company or studio. From there, one might work their way up the ranks through various roles, such as writing, acting, or production. This path provides hands-on experience and a strong foundation in the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking. However, it is not the only way.
The Huston and Sturges Approach: Writer to Director
Some legendary directors, like John Huston, turned their writing prowess into a directorial chair. His ability to leverage his screenwriting experience to direct his father in The Maltese Falcon is a prime example. Similarly, other notable directors, like Preston Sturges, Robert Towne, and Francis Ford Coppola, have taken this path. Huston's approach involved convincing the studio to take a chance on a low-budget film, successfully completing it on time and under budget, and then delivering a sleeper hit that launched his directing career.
Huston’s Perspective
Huston's account provides a detailed look into the process:
"They [Warner Bros.] indulged me rather. They liked my work as a writer and they wanted to keep me on. If I wanted to direct why they'd give me a shot at it. … I completely storyboarded The Maltese Falcon because I didn't want to lose face with the crew: I wanted to give the impression that I knew what I was doing."
The Filmmaker’s Apprenticeship: From Mechanics to Directors
Another unconventional path is entering the film industry through non-traditional roles, such as an auto mechanic or race-car driver. Consider Victor Fleming, who started in Hollywood as an auto mechanic, eventually becoming a cameraman and then a director. His journey illustrates how diverse backgrounds can lead to remarkable success. Fleming directed his first feature, 'Til the Clouds Roll By for Douglas Fairbanks’s production company in 1919, and went on to become a versatile and respected director for the next three decades, with notable works like Captain's Courageous, Test Pilot, The Wizard of Oz, and Gone With The Wind.
Fleming’s Reflection
In his early days, Fleming exclaimed, "Good editing makes the director look good. Great editing makes the film look like it wasn't directed at all." His words underscore the crucial role of editing in the director's work and how it can elevate even the most challenging projects.
The Editor's Transformation into a Director
Robert Parrish exemplifies a filmmaker who transitioned from editing to directing. His journey began as a child actor, and he gradually moved into the editing room, eventually winning an Oscar for his work on Body and Soul. His ambition was fueled by the mentorship he received from John Ford on set. Ford taught Parrish a valuable lesson through a unique method involving holding a camera finder to block out distractions, giving Parrish the opportunity to visualize and plan shots without being interrupted. Parrish then directed nearly two dozen features over the next two decades.
Parrish's Lesson: The Power of Directive Thinking
John Ford's lesson to Parrish highlighted the importance of preparation and the ability to work under pressure:
"From time to time when you come on the set in the morning you'll find that you haven't got an idea in your head that you just can't figure out how to stage a scene. When this happens you call for the finder immediately. Go to the center of the set as though you know exactly what you are doing. Put the finder to your eyes the way I'm doing and close your eyes. That’s important. Don't keep them open or you'll see something distracting."
This approach emphasizes the keyword movie director and aspiring filmmaker, illustrating that the path to becoming a movie director can be influenced by various factors and skills. Regardless of the route chosen, preparation, creativity, and a willingness to take chances are key to achieving one's dreams.
Conclusion
The road to becoming a movie director is as varied and diverse as the stories of those who have succeeded. From traditional education to unconventional beginnings, each path offers unique lessons and opportunities. As you embark on your journey, remember that creativity, dedication, and perseverance are your most powerful tools. Embrace the path that resonates with you and pave your own way to success.