What's the Big Idea?

Coming up for an idea for a movie you could actually make -

1. Think of what genre’s work for low budget. All genres can work but each have their challenges on low budget.

i.e. a comedy requires great comedic timing and actors who can play comed. Science Fiction could require lots of vfx or big set designs. Don’t dismiss just because of genre but try to imagine how you can use your resources to make that genre work for you and not against you.

2. Think of what the unique hook or angle of your movie will be. Note: the tiny budget movie on an iPhone has been done so that’s not a “hook”. What’s your unique hook?

3. Think executable. You don’t run a marathon from the couch so don’t make a Marvel movie when you’ve only made a few shorts. Make your film something that you and your cast and crew can be proud of even if it’s not at the level of production - expensive cast, locations, camera gear, etc. - of your favourite filmmaker.

Last note - you want your idea to have a lasting impression for YOU. you are going to sit with this idea for 2 years or more, in the writing phase, the shooting, editing, and all of it.

You’d better LOVE the idea. Because for you to see this through, you’re going to have to love it enough to stick with it when you don’t want to anymore.

-Anthony