The indie film industry, much like any other, is a melting pot of diverse personalities and styles. Assembling the right team to bring your cinematic vision to life is crucial, but it can be challenging to sift through the noise of rumors, personal biases, and industry gossip. How do you find the right collaborators amidst this cacophony?
In this article, we’ll explore:
• Evaluating potential team members beyond hearsay
• Balancing references with personal experience
• Trusting your instincts in team-building decisions
• Implementing a “No Assholes” rule on set
The Film Industry: A Spectrum of Personalities
Filmmaking is an intense endeavour, often leading to personality clashes. It’s essential to look beyond secondhand opinions when considering potential collaborators.
As filmmaker Robert Rodriguez once said, “Not all great artists work well together, and that’s okay.”
Your goal is to find the right fit for your project, not necessarily the person with the most impeccable reputation.
Understanding Compatibility
Not everyone works well together, and that’s perfectly fine. Some of the most iconic films were created by teams that had significant creative differences. For instance, director Stanley Kubrick and actress Shelley Duvall had well-documented clashes during The Shining, yet the result was cinematic brilliance.
On the other hand, I’ve collaborated seamlessly with individuals others found challenging and faced difficulties with those who came highly recommended. Filmmaking is akin to dating—you’re seeking chemistry, not just credentials. If a collaboration doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean either party is at fault; it simply wasn’t the right fit.
Implementing a “No Assholes” Rule on Set
In the high-pressure environment of filmmaking, maintaining a positive and respectful atmosphere is paramount. Adopting a “No Assholes” rule ensures that the set remains a place of collaboration and creativity.
It's important to emphasize that success doesn’t give one the license to be disrespectful. People often recast poor behaviour from successful people as honesty, or even leadership. No, it’s just being an asshole.
By enforcing this rule, you:
• Foster Mutual Respect – Ensure that all team members treat each other with dignity, regardless of their role or status.
• Enhance Productivity – A respectful environment reduces conflicts, allowing the team to focus on the task at hand.
• Attract Top Talent – Skilled professionals prefer working in positive settings and will be more inclined to join your project.
Remember, talent is abundant, but finding individuals who are both skilled and respectful is invaluable. Prioritize character alongside competence to build a team that’s both effective and harmonious.
Building a Strong Team
1. Align with Your ‘Why’ (Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle)
Simon Sinek’s Start With Why emphasizes the importance of understanding your core mission. When building your team, seek individuals who resonate with your vision.
• Are they passionate about your project’s themes?
• Do they align with your storytelling approach?
• Are they excited about the challenges of indie filmmaking?
A shared sense of purpose fosters dedication and enthusiasm.
2. Cultivate a Committed Tribe (Seth Godin’s Tribes)
Seth Godin highlights the power of small, dedicated groups united by a common goal. Your film crew should be more than just a collection of professionals; it should be a tribe working towards a shared vision.
• Seek collaborators eager to contribute ideas, not just follow directives.
• Promote a culture of trust and open communication.
• Value commitment over convenience; sometimes the best team members are those deeply invested in the project’s success.
Balancing References with Direct Experience
While references are valuable, they don’t paint the whole picture. Approach them critically:
1. Consider the Source – Who is providing the reference? Are they objective, or did they have personal conflicts with the individual? A director who clashed with a producer over creative differences might not offer an unbiased opinion.
2. Look for Patterns, Not Isolated Complaints – If multiple sources highlight the same behaviour, it’s worth noting. However, a single negative comment might not be indicative of the person’s overall capabilities.
3. Seek Direct Conversations – Whenever possible, engage with the individual directly. A face-to-face meeting or video call can offer insights that secondhand information cannot.
4. Ask Specific Questions – Instead of general inquiries, delve deeper:
• “How do they handle on-set pressure?”
• “What’s their approach to creative problem-solving?”
• “Would you collaborate with them again? Why or why not?”
Gathering a mix of perspectives will provide a clearer, more balanced view.
Trusting Your Gut: Your Most Reliable Guide
As you gain experience, your intuition becomes a valuable tool in decision-making. Here’s how to hone it:
1. Heed First Impressions – If something feels amiss during initial interactions, don’t ignore it. Attitude and energy are as crucial as talent.
2. Consider Compatibility – Filmmaking involves long hours together. If you can’t envision handling stressful situations with someone, reconsider bringing them on board.
3. Listen to Their Narratives – Pay attention to how they discuss past projects. Do they take responsibility or blame others? Their perspective can offer clues about their potential behavior on your set.
Final Thoughts: Crafting Your Dream Team
The success of your film hinges on more than just technical prowess; it depends on teamwork, trust, and a shared vision. As you assemble your team:
• Weigh References Judiciously – Use them as one of many tools in your evaluation process.
• Recognize Compatibility Variances – Understand that not everyone will mesh well, and that’s okay.
• Enforce a “No Assholes” Rule – Prioritize respect and collaboration on set.
• Apply Leadership Insights – Utilize strategies from thought leaders to foster a motivated and cohesive crew.
• Trust Your Instincts – Your intuition, refined through experience, is a powerful guide.
By carefully selecting your team, you’re not just making a movie; you’re creating a collaborative experience that will shape your career and artistic journey. Choose wisely, trust yourself, and embark on the adventure of bringing your vision to life.
This week on the Podcast:
Laura Adkin didn’t wait for permission—she made her first feature happen.
On this episode of Off The Lot, we talk to writer-director Laura Adkin about taking control of her career, funding Re:Uniting (2023) on her own terms, and the challenges of making an indie feature from the ground up.
• If you’re a filmmaker waiting for the “right time” to make your movie—this episode is for you.
• Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! Link below!
Missing anything that you want to see? Let me know.
Cheers,
Anthony (He/Him)
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