Top Filmmaking Articles of the Week - January 5, 2025
A director must be a policeman, a midwife, a psychoanalyst, a sycophant and a bastard.
-Billy Wilder
Top Filmmaking Articles of the Week - January 5, 20245
Here are some filmmaking articles that we found interesting the past week. We hope you enjoy!
The Atlantic – Shirley Li
“Anora,” directed by Sean Baker, is a screwball romantic comedy that follows Ani, a 23-year-old sex worker from Brooklyn, who embarks on a whirlwind romance with Vanya, the son of a Russian oligarch. Their impulsive Las Vegas marriage leads to conflicts with Vanya’s family, who attempt to annul the union. The film stars Mikey Madison as Ani and Mark Eydelshteyn as Vanya. “Anora” premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Palme d’Or, marking Baker’s first time receiving this prestigious award.
Baker is known for his distinctive filmmaking style, which emphasizes small budgets, non-actors, and realism. He chose to cast real Russians for the roles instead of high-profile actors, maintaining his commitment to authenticity. The film has become his most accomplished work and his biggest box-office success to date. “Anora” is a comedic yet poignant exploration of the American dream, balancing hope and harsh reality, reflecting Baker’s nuanced view of the pursuit of success and stability in unconventional ways.
RoughDraft Atlanta – Sammie Purcell
This article discusses the challenges faced by independent filmmakers in Georgia, despite the state’s reputation as a hub for film production. While Georgia offers generous tax incentives that have attracted major Hollywood productions, local indie filmmakers often struggle to access these benefits due to high budget thresholds and complex application processes. Additionally, the influx of large productions has led to increased competition for resources, such as crew members and equipment, driving up costs for smaller projects. The article highlights the resilience and creativity of Georgia’s indie filmmakers, who continue to pursue their craft despite these obstacles, often relying on community support and innovative approaches to bring their stories to life.
The article also emphasizes the importance of local organizations and film festivals in supporting indie filmmakers. These platforms provide opportunities for networking, funding, and showcasing work, helping to sustain the vibrant independent film scene in Georgia. However, the need for more accessible funding options and resources tailored to the needs of indie filmmakers is evident. The article concludes by calling for a more inclusive approach to the state’s film industry growth, ensuring that independent voices are not overshadowed by big-budget productions.
SAGindie
SAGindie, an organization dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers, published its list of favorite films for 2024. The selections encompass a variety of genres and styles, reflecting the diverse landscape of contemporary cinema.
More Filmmaking Articles
DL Sounds
Discusses how technological advancements are empowering independent filmmakers to produce high-quality content more affordably.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): These technologies enable creators to craft immersive experiences, enhancing storytelling and audience engagement.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI streamlines various aspects of filmmaking, from editing to special effects, making complex tasks more accessible to indie filmmakers.
Affordable Tools and Software: The availability of cost-effective equipment and editing software allows filmmakers to achieve professional results without substantial budgets.
The article also offers practical tips for succeeding in the indie film industry, such as networking, submitting to film festivals, crowdfunding, and continuous learning. Overall, it emphasizes that the convergence of these technologies and resources is democratizing filmmaking, enabling independent creators to produce compelling content that rivals major studio productions.
Variety – Andrés Buenahora, Jazz Tangcay
At the Film Independent Spirit Awards Nominee Brunch on January 4, 2025, three emerging filmmakers were honored with cash grants to support their work:
Producers Award: Sarah Winshall received this award, which recognizes emerging producers who demonstrate creativity and vision despite limited resources.
Someone to Watch Award: Sarah Friedland was honored for her directorial work on “Familiar Touch,” a film that showcases her unique vision.
Truer Than Fiction Award: Rachel Elizabeth Seed was recognized for her documentary “A Photographic Memory,” highlighting her emerging talent in nonfiction filmmaking.
These awards, each accompanied by a $25,000 cash grant, aim to support and encourage the next generation of independent filmmakers.
In a recent interview, Eggers discussed the difficulties encountered during filming, including logistical issues and creative hurdles. He expressed gratitude for the support of his cast and crew, which helped navigate these challenges.
The film stars Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok, with Emma Corrin portraying Ellen. Skarsgård underwent extensive makeup sessions, lasting three to six hours daily, to achieve the character’s appearance. Corrin had to endure scenes involving live rats, which added to the film’s intense atmosphere.
If you’ve found anything interesting this week let us know and we can spread the word next time!