When someone offered Michael DiPaolo $5,000 to make a Digital Video horror film, he jumped at the chance to test a theory: an ultra-low budget feature, shot in less than a week, with both a paid cast and crew, could be successful if meticulously planned. Using one computer and one camcorder, he produced, edited, and distributed Daddy in 2003. This book breaks down the production through a detailed daily diary, emphasizing that the most important aspects of successful producing are careful planning and camaraderie in the group. The work covers many points important for the low-budget filmmaker, including storyboards, budgeting (everything from actors to hair-styling to insurance), collecting a crew and dealing with problem members, casting, scouting for locations, equipment, scheduling, rehearsing, costuming, food, transportation, and what to do if you run out of time or money. Postproduction is also covered (editing, computer work, and sound design), as is the result of all this hard work: screenings, festivals, and distributors. A chapter covers Hitchcock's theories of point-of-view, and another profiles some role models for the aspiring filmmaker: Edgar Ulmer, Val Lewton, Roger Corman, John Cassavetes, Ed Wood, Jr., and Jean-Luc Godard. Later chapters explain strategy and tactics of filmmaking and show the budding filmmaker how to recognize both his limitations and his strengths.
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