Giovanna Chester - Film Maker/UCSD Professor

Giovanna Chester- visited our HTMMA Film School March 20, 2007
Introduction:

• The producer has their hands in everything.
• You must sell you idea to the people that you work with.
• Writing dialogue is the hardest part.
• Film people talking, but don't forget about 'cut-aways' because they help sell the film and make it interesting.
• When looking for ideas for a film it is important to study people and research your subject.
• Extras should not look at the camera.
• Use lots of sound when you need to have a crowd of extras because it will give the feeling or more people than you might have.
• Utube is a good way to get your footage seen, but you won't get to see how a crowd reacts to your film.
• When making an image, make sure to be aware of lines. Film from your height and view.
• Short films should end with a question.
• Don't have too many scenes or locations. Make it simple and easy.
• Make a sound list.
• Her website can be found at g6pictures.com

Student Questions:

Q:How do you get extras?
A: Friends make great extras. Offer your extras food. Have a call time in order to show your extras respect for their time.

Q:How do you pick an actor for a certain look?
A:Be open to all actors because actors can transform their looks to meet the part.

Q:How do you get a film on the big screen?
A: The best way to do this is by entering film festivals.

Q:How do you get props?
A:There are prop houses that have props that you can rent. Also, you can find great, interesting props at thrift stores.

Q:Is it hard to be in your own movie?
A:It is hard because you have to give up control as a director. It is important to be in your own movie because then you will know how the actors feel when being directed. I recommend being in your film, but for a short time (cameo).

Q:How do you control a big crowd in your film?
A:The line producer is mainly in charge of this, but it is the responsibility of many different people. Another way to manage a big crowd is by making sure that actors/crews feel valued. Make sure that everyone is having fun.

Q:How do you give directions?
A:Never tell your actors to 'act like ...' Instead tell your actors 'here's the scene ... I want you to be in this space.' Verbally set up an environment for your actors.

Q:Where do you find actors?
A:You can post a wanted ad in a newspaper, ask friends to help, and collaborate with other to find people.

Q:How do you find the right place?
A:This is called 'location scouting'. Take shots of what a frame would look like. Often the 'production designer' takes care of this. It is important to talk to group members about what everybody wants. Look at the shots and discuss what you should change.

Q:How do you memorize?
A:Lines should tell a story visually. Be supportive of actors when shooting. Do not cut them off is they change the lines a little bit. You can always take more takes and chose the best. When writing dialogue, try to write only 2-3 lines at a time. When practicing, read your lines over and over, as if they are a conversation that you are having with one another.

Q:Is it better to shoot on film or video?
A:Film is more expensive, more work with use, but creates a softer look. Video is cheaper, easier to shoot, and you can see what you have just filmed. Big budget films are shot on film.

Q:How do you get funding?
A:Try to get your friends and family to donate money or equipment, especially to you first film. Once your film goes to a festival there will be people that want to donate to your future films. It is important to develop friendships with people who can donate financially.

Q:How long does it typically take to make a movie?
A:1 year

Q:How do you do lighting?
A:Lighting must stay the same. Shoot in a corner where you can control the light.

Q:What makes for a good documentary?
A:Understand that you are telling a story, so make sure that there is character development.