Before I begin my rant, I want to give a shout out to all the talented past and forthcoming filmmakers I’ve had and will have the pleasure to collaborate and grow as artists with!
OK, here’s goes my disgruntled charm - with love!
Some filmmakers will take years filming and editing but then when it comes down to post sound they want it RIGHT NOW - in 2-4 weeks. There’s never a proper budget and sometimes they’ve spent it all by the time they get to me. I’m married to a filmmaker, so I understand the plight of making a movie from a first person experience. I offer big discounts for flexible turnaround times, comp studio hours and even gift hours of my service. It’s rare anyone takes me up on it. Does anyone have any patience anymore? It’s all about meeting that festival deadline (you know the one) or getting it out there for their career ASAP. Do you know what’s good for festivals and a career? A great film. Giving sound the same attention, patience and dedication you gave to the script, filming and editing will get you a great film.
I am very up front about the needs of a film and what I will provide when you hire my services. Most will disclose very little about the details of their service, leaving filmmakers in the dark to possibly need more work, hire others and spend more down the road. Watching my partner, Catherine go through what she goes through when making a film, I like to be upfront with the services that are needed and what of those services I will provide.
This world has become very fast and even faster for turnaround times. Everyone has been getting what they want when they want it, all with a good enough attitude. When it comes to getting a great mix for films, the more time allotted, the better the mix can be. Sound is often 50% of the picture - it is called “sound-picture” after all. This world is not free. If you have a tight deadline, allot for it in the budget. We all need the equal exchange of goods with time to pay our way in this world that is so rapidly getting more expensive. Saying sound is important is not enough. You actually have to give it the value it deserves if you value your film.
As Catherine always says “if you don’t have the money, you have no business making a movie.” It’s a little harsh, but I always see Catherine pay people what they are worth without question. Even when she doesn’t have it she finds it because she wants the best film. Or, she gives people all the time they need to squeeze this “passion project” into their busy life. Either you have the money or the time or you sacrifice quality.
That being said, I am very grateful to all the filmmakers that have entrusted me to join their team and uplift their films with great sound! It’s been an eclectic batch of beautiful films this past year.
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