This is the 75th anniversary of the DGA and to celebrate, the guild is hosting a series of events throughout the year. Last weekend they held a Q&A slash screening about independent filmmakers. Panelists included the Duplass brothers of CYRUS fame, Katheline Peirce of BOYS DON'T CRY, Steven Soderbergh of SEX, LIES AND VIDEOTAPE, and moderator James Mangold. It was an interesting presentation, delivered in a novel format in which clips from prominent independent films were screened to prompt discussion.

Big shout outs to instructor, Victoria Hochberg for getting all us Art Center students and alum on the guest list. There was definitely a strong representation from Art Center. The panelists were incredibly forth coming about their experiences, avoiding generalities and euphemisms and really delving into the good and bad of filmmaking. It was encouraging to hear their experiences in the indie world mirrors ours as students, with the same pressures and limitations. It means we're already prepared for the worse:)

Number one takeaways: 1) Film fest labs do get results, so apply, 2) give yourself time to find the answers, even on set,  3) being clear on your voice and identity as a filmmaker will set you apart and 4) if you don't have a big budget then have really good writing.

Thumbs up to this wonderfully educational and inspiring DGA event, I hope to attend many more!