Introduction - Please Don't Skip This

I want to demystify the idea making movies is only for showbiz types. If you picked up this book you might have went to film school or not. Maybe you're someone who enjoys watching movies and has their own story idea that would make a great movie itching to get out. Blue Collar Movie Production is for aspiring screenwriters, directors, and producers along with the casual movie viewer with their own great story idea for a movie.

I did not attend film school, but still had a passion to make movies that grew from watching them. I've written, directed, produced, and sold my first two movies Consignment and In With Thieves.

They weren't made in Hollywood on a large studio budget, but they're available through Blockbuster, Borders, Hollywood Video, Best Buy, F.Y.E., Barnes & Noble, and other respected retailers. I'm not a Hollywood player yet, but I am out here making movies. Not just talking about making movies. You can too!

This book grew out of the tough lessons learned making independent movies with limited money, time and resources. It's a good feeling to stop talking about making a movie and actually doing it. My realistic approach to making movies has been covered in articles that have appeared in MovieMaker Magazine and Indie Slate Magazine.

I struggle like many filmmakers out there trying to claw their way out of the independent film scene into bigger success. When I talk about the independent film scene it's not the major film festivals where successful Hollywood players make deals happen or about movies with low seven figure budgets starring A-List Hollywood talent signed on because they wanted to do a film that wasn't mainstream.

My indie reality is making movies to earn a living without going broke or losing my sanity.

I know people that have graduated from top film schools, know all the movie lingo, and never fail to talk endlessly about the huge Hollywood blockbuster their going to make soon...very soon. “Now” always beats “soon”.

You can't wait for the perfect time to shoot your movie, because there will never be a perfect time. If you want to make movies go out there and take a shot. I'm not the person with all the answers, sure fire can't miss advice, or can guarantee you red carpet success because you took the time to read this book. But I will tell you the truth which will increase your chances for success.