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Why original music "IS" important.........

Jay888 you gotta be kiddin me, you're so wrapped up in impressing "professionals" and I quote:

"but to seasoned professionals it will come across as "Amateur Hour". It will come across as "Oh another kid that got hold of his parents camcorder and shot his friends acting like fools then slapped on a track from kazza in hopes of fooling me into thing this is a film"

What a load of crap. If you want refined film with an overproduced score maybe you should stick to paying 9.50 for the hollywood crap you seem to want to emulate. That kid with his parents camcorder is the future of filmaking and the creative process he or she uses to express a story should be respected.

Its a new world buddy; and we're coming for the heads of the pompus film school elitests who beleive money and production values are more important than creativity.
 
Jay888 you gotta be kiddin me, you're so wrapped up in impressing "professionals" and I quote:

"but to seasoned professionals it will come across as "Amateur Hour". It will come across as "Oh another kid that got hold of his parents camcorder and shot his friends acting like fools then slapped on a track from kazza in hopes of fooling me into thing this is a film"

What a load of crap. If you want refined film with an overproduced score maybe you should stick to paying 9.50 for the hollywood crap you seem to want to emulate. That kid with his parents camcorder is the future of filmaking and the creative process he or she uses to express a story should be respected.

Its a new world buddy; and we're coming for the heads of the pompus film school elitests who beleive money and production values are more important than creativity.
 
Not that I think this issue is as black and white as it's being treated, but please explain to me why a kid who steals someone elses intelctual property (i.e. a song) is being more creative that someone who works with a composer or songwriter to make music specifically for their project? That's not creative at all. What it is is a lot easier. Maybe you should replace creativity with lazyness in your above post.

joren
 
Yeah, that and, there's no need to post it TWICE.
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Pointgravity Productions
 
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>That kid with his parents camcorder is the future of filmaking and the creative process he or she uses to express a story should be respected.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

You are confusing the issue. Read the "whole" post... it's very easy to take things out of conte xt. The point in me saying what you quoted, is that , this "IS NOT" what you want peoples reaction to be to your films, so you gotta do whatever it takes to step up to the next level. I'm just telling you how it is.... Listen or don't, it's up to you. And by the way, the reason I post here "IS" because I respect what young kids are doing. That is why I try to help you guys! But young kids also need to "RESPECT" the people that have been doing this a lot longer that "you" (isn't that fair?). I do find it curious that your only two posts are right here in this thread, come on use your real name.


<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Its a new world buddy; and we're coming for the heads of the pompus film school elitests who beleive money and production values are more important than creativity. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Look, If you've forgotten, I am the guy that harps on the importance of "THE SCRIPT" over everything else. I am the guy that said "Don't be overly concerned about shots and editing, because it's not as important as a good scri pt". Look I happen to know what it's like in the big leagues and am trying to give you guys the insight that you otherwise might never get (saving you time, on the bull sh!t that your elitist film school friends tell you). There are many things that don't matter and there are many things that absolutely do.


Sure not everyone wants to go to the top, but I would be willing to bet that many here do, even though they don't say so (they can't, they'd be called a sell out). For you guys that do want to be in the big leagues, don't listen to that bull sh!t! But even so, if you're goal is to be a top "INDIE" guy, your gonna need to know this stuff. Like it or not! When you eventually get a budget of, say, $50,000 (which by the way is a micro budget film) you are gonna need to think smart if you want anything to be the result of this (also so you don't have a $50,000 debt).....

Hollywood people look at micro films all the time. The same people you are railing against are the same people that sign "little guys" in hopes of building their career (key word "CAREER"). I'm not talking about film school elitists, that is small potatoes. Half the time these "ELITISTS" talk sh!t about Hollywood like they know what the hell is going on (some do, many don't). Many of the m will get passed up by the people WILLING to listen and learn. Listing and then making for themselves.....


No kid, I'm not an elitist and I don't know everything... but some things I do know. How much more do I need to break it down for you? (BTW.. My background is an "INDIE" composer / musician, and my wife is an agent at the biggest agency in Hollywood. Between us and our friends -- who are also in the industry -- I think I might have learned a thing or two). Like I've always said, take from people what makes sense to you...... Think for yourself (but also listen because you don't know everything.... I'm still listening myself! OK?)


Try to "HEAR" what I'm saying instead of overreacting to minuscule details in my wording. That is a waste of your time, and mine!


One thing that is a bit unnerving is the amount of kids on this forum that think they have this film thing all figured out (and many whom have never done anything... strange?). If it were me, I think I'd probably asking a lot more questions, than focusing on trivial issues...... That is, if you are serious.


Where will you be in 5 years? Some of you will be on the road to a great "career" (not just one half assed bad short film, a career), some will be working menial jobs. That is the reality kid! You've been warned.......

But God damn kid, most of the time I'm talking about "INDIE"!!! What you need to do for an "INDIE FEATURE". Are you just not following this? I guess anything over $5,000 is "BIG TIME" to you. I can't hold your hand through all of this..... If you aren't gonna be looking to get distribution you are in the wrong field. Either that or you are extremely wealthy. That would be called a "VANITY FILM".....


BTW... If you're gonna come back at me, come at me with somethi ng regarding the issue.


As always..... It's your call.e
 
Anyway-

Pyro, here are those cues.

I was asked to do something electronic, intimate and small. "Not too complex, just simple and straight forward". But just so you guys know, there where a lot of changes on these simple cues. He didn't just say "let me know when you're done", it was a processes. He would listen then we'd go over what wasn't working. I'd make notes and fix it. This film was small,
maybe 10 to 15k... still the director used original music because that is just what you do if you want the music to fit the film like a glove..... It sole purpose is to push what's happening on screen, that's it! That is the only reason why it was created. Not an after thought. As a young director that should make you "MORE" excited..... I don't get it?


GENE RAL:
As a director you must know (or learn) when a cues is not working, and why! That is why I am bringing this issue of original music up --- so you guys will hopefully begin to use original music, and understand that the "SKILL" is not choosing music i t's choosing the composer, as well as the bands. It's one more thing you "need" to know how to do, and it takes "hands on" practice....



So the cues... BTW- This film is about a murder (I know you guys are into that
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), the music is meant to be awkwar d. (i.e. light music dark subject... the look of the film is very dark). The film is basically about someone freeing themselves by being forced (in his mind) to commit murder against the person that has imprisoned him mentally. Therefor, feeling a sense o f freedom in the end. It's hard to explain.... Anyway.


M-1

M-1a

M-1b

M-2

M-3/Credits



JJ

[This message was edited by jay888 on May 23, 2003 at 09:34 PM.]
 
Your pretty good...I thought they were pretty good...I didn't like the feel to them but then again it's not my film your scoring.
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I did like the last one though, for the credits. I liked it because half way through the music totally changed and sounded wicked. Nice.
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TacoWagonProductions

I'm gonna be a pilot when I grow up!
 
Thanks Kyle,

That's the thing, it depends on what the film is. That music is specific for that film, it's not gonna work necessarily without seeing the picture. And it probably wouldn't work for any other film.


BTW... Here is another side. I did this one on spec.

M-spec.

One in the horror-psychological vein....

Maggot

Both of those cues are a little more tech. It all depends on what it's for.......


Jayy
 
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Kyle Johnson:
I didn't like the feel to them but then again it's not my film your scoring.
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<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

BTW... Exactly! Maybe "your" film "is" better. So perhaps the music would be better.... Know what I mean.
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I don't decide what is cool, I do what I'm told.
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Jayl
 
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> I do what I'm told. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Gimmi a sandwhich...with cheese.
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TacoWagonProductions

I'm gonna be a pilot when I grow up!
 
I need to respond to something Jay said. He said, and this is not an exact quote, that young filmmakers need to listen to the older (or maybe "established" is a better word) directors out there.
I couldn't agree more. I'm not suggesting that the up and comers shouldn't find their own voice, but good golly, there is a treasure trove of information and experience just waiting for someone to tap into it.
When I was just starting out as a composer, I had the good fortune to develop a relationship with a commercial director (key word: RELATIONSHIP). His daughter was a piano student of mine. Anyhow, he gave me a shot to score a commercial for national release. I did my best, and it sucked, and he didn't use it. It was horrible. But, because we had a relationship, we stayed in touch. I took every opportunity to talk to him about what to do better, to submit ideas and changes to him, even though I was no longer in the running for the commercial. He took the time to listen to what I wrote and tell my why it didn't work. I'd go home and try it again, and he'd say, "better, but still not there." I'd go home and try again. He gave me a copy of his reel, and I studied the things that he HAD chosen, to see what worked and what didn't. I listened to what he had to say, even though it meant swallowing my pride (which was wounded. Who wants to admit that their best isn't good enough?) Anyhow, a few months went by, and he surprised me by giving me another shot at a different commercial. I got the job and my career has gone from there.
I could have told him where to go. I could have said, "No way, man. I'm not selling out. My music couldn't get any better." But that would have been stupid for two primary reasons: 1) It would have destroyed the relationship, and there would NOT have been a second chance. 2) HE WAS RIGHT. I wasn't ready that first time around. I cringe when I listen to that first track I did.
Listen, listen, listen. My formal education taught me how to write music. But he taught me how to USE the music against picture. Two different things.
 
Nice music, Jay. They sounded very good. Am I mistaken, or did you have some sounds (cymbals maybe?) reversed in the M3 credits? It added a nice touch to my amateur ears!

Nice story, Doctor D. I'm sure there are many similar stories "in the city", as well as the "go jump in the lake" stories by people now working in fast food! Glad to see you had some success. I'm sure it's very competitive out there!

Good luck guys.

Mark M
Scooter Productions
 
Quote: But God damn kid, most of the time I'm talking about "INDIE"!!!

Why you're calling me kid is beyond me, I'm 25 years old. But I guess I struck a nerve considering your longwinded reply. I understand now your viewpoint on composing professional music considering it's your job.

Of course we would all like to go get a pro composer to score our soundtracks but when you're starting out it's not always an option.

As a student director/producer there are creative (or lazy) ways to avoid people like you. There are plenty of local bands and artists that would love to let student directors use their music for free.
(http://www.localband.net/).

Quote: But young kids also need to "RESPECT" the people that have been doing this a lot longer that "you" (isn't that fair?).

You sound like a dying grandfather.

Listen in all seriousness I get your point, it's a very simple one. We all know that eventually as we grow as artists that we will need individuals like yourself to give us a higher quality in our work, just don't dismiss people that aren't quite there yet.

But on a student film website not everyone is overly concerned about "the industry" you and your wife are neckdeep in. It's about storytelling and creativity; but to some that's just not good enough. Why does there always have to be a next level for people like you, why can't this just be what it is, an outlet for truly independent student work. And if a kid wants to rip a song as to concentrate on storytelling, let it be.

For alot of people it's easy to get discouraged when they look at posts that tell them they need "this and that" or their work is sub par. So they think film making is an unobtainable goal and they quit before they even start. They look at film schools that charge $15,000 a semster and they just give up and the world loses a storyteller. Well not here, this is a place where if want to use ma and pa's camcorder with a soundtrack of ripped songs or no songs at all it will still be respected.

But I think it's great that you are donating free music to all the student filmakers here.
 
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> Quote: But God damn kid, most of the time I'm talking about "INDIE"!!!
Why you're calling me kid is beyond me, I'm 25 years old. But I guess I struck a nerve considering your longwinded reply. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

A lot of people refer to people under 30 years old as a "kid" It's done a lot in movies aswell...I don't see the reason you had to bring it up in your post though.

TacoWagonProductions

I'm gonna be a pilot when I grow up!
 
Well put, Mcrukker. I don't necessarily agree that there isn't (or can't) be a "next level"--as you put it--to student film making, but I definatly better understand your point and what you're trying to say. Maybe it's time to agree on differing opinions and move on from the "Why original music "IS" important" post.

I do agree that no filmmaker, no matter what "level," should be discouraged. It's all about the storytelling. Music is just a vehicle for that storytelling. Off the shelf (or Kazaa) music can also be that vehicle--just not as personalized or legal.

joren
 
Mark M.

That loop was pretty tweaked. Basically it was just a bunch of editing, and FX. But yes some the hits were turned backwards. But it was a bit more than that.


Mcrucker-

Well, I'm still young enough to be wearing my DogTown T-shirts and surfing my short board Channel Islands (6'5 thin as hell.... for any of you other surfers out there)
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BTW... Thanks for the award!
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*bowing*

Just to clear one thing up. I did let a kid use an old cue of mine, but I don't make it a habit to hand out music. J ust don't want people to get the wrong impression.

The long replies are because I CARE. That's all....


But to get a little "real"...


I will also say. It is absolutely NOT my intention to discourage young filmmakers. I feel that sometimes you h ave to go to the extreme to get some kids to understand certain concepts. Concepts that you take to the extreme so they can understand (hey, I was stubborn too!
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), then back down from that to a more workable "realistic" situation. But you're probably right, I'm beginning to see why I really shouldn't post here, and that's fine. No hard feelings. I also apologize to any of you that found what I said while here to be discouraging (maybe it's best to just let time run it's course). This is a "student film" site an d many of the concepts "I" speak of are concepts that are more so found in the pro world. I've been doing this a while (actually, I used to be a model as well, been around the world, done a national commercial, spot in a film, wrote a script, etc.).... al re ady been to many premiers, meet many, many people in this industry everyday (meeting a few up and coming directors in the next few weeks), go to parties at very successful film people's homes, etc. (for example my wife and I were invited t o Zemeckis's Christmas party, Madona went to my friends house party, was invited to Alanis's house party, my wife is one of Spielberg's agents. etc. etc. etc.). The point of that is not to brag... it's to say, this is "normal" in my life. I'm surroun de d by film in all aspects. (guess I was trying to give some of you a glimpse of how it works in that world... probably too soon though)



Many of you are still in high school, so yes, I should not really expect you to understand where I'm coming from. As well it's been a while since I was where many of you guys are (high school parties, living a t home, just g ett ing your drivers license... whatever?) I'm 29. So yes it's true, I don't usually think in terms of "student film" .

Therefore I should proba bly just let kids figure this out for themselves....


I've probably done all I can here anywa y. So with that I w ill say good luck to all of you! I'll check back as to the on going threads that I posted to, but after that I'll be saying farewell (just don't wanna leave anyone hanging).

*To the kids that I was stern with, It was all out of wanting to see you "make it" (in whatever form that would take).

Work hard, it ain't easy, but you got this! Believe in yourself, because "you" are the one to make "your" dreams come true (whatever they might be)!
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See ya'
Peace---

[This message was edited by jay888 on May 27, 2003 at 11:18 PM.]
 
Don't be so dramatic. (That name dropping was painful by the way.) Someone calls you out and you just fold, grow some balls dude.

You give good advice, I was just responding to the tone. And at 29 years old you're hardly a seasoned pro, and it takes more than Madonna stopping by a freinds House party to catapult you to Mentor status.

Just concentrate on making you're own career work cause from the sounds of your last retreating post you sound like you're in the same boat as most of us.
 
Come on man....

I am in the same boat to certain degree. Meaning I'm not famous or hugely successful. That's not the point, but I guess you didn't understand the point I was trying to make by saying what I said. BTW... I said in a previous post th at the budget for an up coming film I'm doing is $250,000. Which is small potatoes to my wife but to me it's huge, as well probably to many of the kids here. It's all relative. (this is part of the reason why I'm spending $15,000 more to upgrade my studio, that's what i'm doing "right now"). In theory that fact and the fact that I am one person removed from some of the top film people in the world "might" make me eligible to be a mentor (emphasis might). As well I read many scripts and see first hand the revisions, what works an d what doesn't and why. I know what really goes on behind the closed doors. That's mostly what "I" know about film. I don't know what camera to use etc. That is what I was trying to bring here...... I just am starting think it's way too soon for all tha t for many of the "younger" people here. Too soon for politics. So I think I'm wasting my time and theirs (yours). As well, I'm probably to hard on many of them. Wanting them to "get it" to fast....... I'm not huffing out of here, I'm trying to leave on a positive note. As well explain "where and why" I get my opinions. None of the kids here new this information, so I'd rather just be straight with them.



The point AGAIN was. TO SHOW MY LIFE EXPERIENCE . That's it! Further broken down to mean "most of the people I deal with, and have dealt with are seasoned pros". Do I need to further break it down? I though t my post was pretty clear? No I'm not a supper success as I do mostly small Indie films, as well as music for other stuff. So what.... I'm not John Williams. I don't pretend to be.


The point of my "name dropping" etc. was to show in straight forward terms where I'm coming from (what "my" life is). For you to say "so what madona dropped by your friends house" is a little childish, don't you think? If you fail to see the importance of "my wife is one of Spielberg's agents", well? I'm sorry, that is pretty significant in the film world. That in itself should explain a few things. But that's not all of it.... t hat's just part of it. I don't know if you are mature enough to understand what it implies though (judging from your response about madona). At least you don't act like it.....


*I think I know who you are (meaning 2nd handle), and that's fine that you w anna bust my balls... Eve ryone of your posts has been in regards to attacking me, kinda' weird, but? When I was "picking on you" under your other name it was to push you to do something. Motivation. Maybe it wasn't the best tactic.....



BTW--- my decis ion to split has nothing t o do with you specifically, it has to do with the kids here. (I just don't want to push them too hard, it's probably not the right thing to do. At least not yet!) Not everyone on this site is gonna read this post, so I don't kno w how my exit is gonna be v ery "dram atic"???? Why the hell can't I wish these kids the best of luck in the future? I like many of them.....


If you wanna talk about what I'm doing, just e-mail me. I'm not gonna post it to a site like this. I'll send yo u my phone number if you wan na call me..... And we'll go over everything I'm doing, as well as what you are doing (it's not a competition). I don't believe that, that is what this is about though "for you". I think it's just you trying embarrass me someh ow..... Or perhaps to try and bait me i nto an argument because you don't like my style....


Re-read my previous post as someone "explaining" and not "name dropping" and see if it doesn't make more sense to you..... If not? No big deal. We'll can each go or separate ways.....

I'm not gonna p lay the "back and forth personal attack game" with you. If you wanna get real with me fine, but otherwise.....



That's about it......



Jayy

â?º

[This message was edited by jay888 on May 28, 2003 at 01:36 PM.]
 
quote: *I think I know who you are (meaning 2nd handle), and that's fine that you wanna bust my balls... Eve ryone of your posts has been in regards to attacking me, kinda' weird

Wow, a wee-bit paranoid my freind. But I agree we shouldn't be doing this back and forth thing it is a bit retarded, for my part I apologize. And by all means I respect anyone who is involved in any way with the creative arts, and I guess I did come off a bit disrespectfull. Ok a whole sh*tload direspectful.

I think my point came across in the last post and I even believe we agree with each other on a few levels. I also think we both know where the other is coming from and for that I'm glad we had this little discussion. I wish you continued success and I hope you continue to be a part of the community here.

Actually I take all that back, Piss off. (insert sarcasm here)
 

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