What does it feel like to finally finish your first feature? It’s difficult to explain the mix of emotions running through you. To quote the director of Hungry Dog Blues, it kind of feels like “finishing a marathon or coming out of a psychedelic drug trip.”

In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with filmmakers Jason Abrams and Irina Gorovaia to discuss:

The very unique experience of making your first film

The magical sense of community on an indie set 

How the film was inspired by a true story

Why people prefer to work on a project that already has momentum

Launching a crowdfunding campaign right before the pandemic started

How the proof of concept made a huge impact on their fundraising efforts

Why frequently following up with investors is so important

The practice of not taking things personally

Why it’s a win if people hate your movie 

Understanding you have to wear a lot of hats on your first film 

Learning to enjoy every little part of the filmmaking process


Memorable Quotes

“It’s a very unique process to take something through, from nothing to something.” [4:52]

“Everybody wants to be on a moving train. Nobody wants to shovel coal.” [12:16]

“It’s not your job to say ‘no’ for other people.” [30:39]

“Slow down. Take your time. Enjoy every little piece of it. Learn to enjoy every little piece of the filmmaking process.” [58:04]

“You can create just for the sake of creating. Just because you have a story to tell. That’s allowed, too.” [61:57]


Mentioned:
Hungry Dog Blues
Irina's Instagram
Hungry Dog Blues Instagram
Jason's Instagram
Variations on a Theme (YouTube channel)


Resources they used:
Producing
Film Budget Template
Line Producer Tips
Successful Crowdfunding Campaigns
Entertainment Lawyer Help Filmmakers
Creative
Breaking the Fourth Wall
The Art of Suspense
Jumping from Short to Feature


Find No Film School everywhere:
On the Web
https://nofilmschool.com/

Facebook 
https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool

Twitter 
https://twitter.com/nofilmschool

YouTube 
https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool

Send us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices