Alternative Path to Successful Film Career

A successful career in film/video production doesn’t necessarily hinge upon your senior year-short film thesis. Nor does your big break need to come from a standing ovation at Sundance.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good short film as much as the next fan. They’ve proven to be successful for many big-name directors like the Andersons — P.T. and Wes. But perhaps there are other roadmaps to follow in pursuit of that independent filmmaking career. Perhaps that pursuit starts on a smaller screen, in commercial content.

Despite what your film school professor might tell you, here are some alternatives to consider.

• Sell Out •

I know, it’s not what you wanted to hear, but you’d be surprised by the dossier of directors with significant indie-cred who got their starts in commercial work, not original content.

The real talent lies in producing branded content that feels fresh and interesting. You can still produce a Pizza Hut spot while retaining your indie-morals.

The opportunities are everywhere — and not just on TV. Facebook and YouTube are just the tip of the iceberg. For example, this Instagram post didn’t just fall off the Instagram tree. I’d guess there’s a talented independent filmmaker responsible:

The filmmaker behind this spot developed a unique skill, made the right contacts, and followed through for GAP. So why not build some equity with these types of projects and focus on your grand artistic opus when you have some financial stability?

• Fortune 500 Brands - Not Indie Bands •

Music videos can put your name on the map, but when the “client” is an indie band living out of their van, there’s no budget and much less opportunity for artistic growth as a filmmaker (cue: cliché sunset beach walkin’, road trip drivin’, mountain top proclaimin’).

When your client is a Fortune 500 company, however, you might have some dough to back your campaign and a legitimate example to showcase on your reel.

• Start Early — Build a Portfolio •

When I was in film school, commercial work was ignored, even shunned. As I look back, I wish I had spent time honing my own commercial production skills. If you want to make a living in production down the line, build a portfolio and find your niche. Here are some more thought-starters:

Simple, stop-motion food spots

Made by Tucker Barrie, on Tongal.com

And if you haven’t seen these awesome student film spec spots, check them out now.

These are great examples of how to invest your time and money. You don’t have to let your dreams die, but there are more calculated ways to get there. Don’t be a film school cliché. If you're still new to Tongal, check out our Current Projects and think about what your spin on the creative ask would be. 

Comment below with your favorite commercial content by Hollywood directors!