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Questions
How do I get started as an actor?
Audition. Any time you see a part listed that you might be right for, audition. Obviously, your chances are going to be better with a small studio like Malfunction Films, but even people with no acting experience get cast in major films. The secret is to work as much as possible in just about anything you can, and to constantly be honing your craft and learning from other actors and directors. A portfolio of photos and a video reel of your acting will improve your chances of getting past the first stages.
How do I get started as a cinematographer, makeup artist, special effects person, etc.?
Some areas are a little easier to get in to than others. For instance, to be an active cinematographer, you generally have to have a reel of your work. If you can beg or borrow a camera (video or film) and lighting equipment, then you can shoot samples for your reel until you've worked enough to build up a body of work. Assisting active cinematographers is a good way to go, since it will allow you to learn the craft while you're developing contacts in the business. Other areas of specialty are similar — develop a sample body of work in any way you can, whether it was used on an actual production or not. You may have to work for free for awhile until you get some real world samples to show, but if you have talent, you should eventually be able to work your way up. Just remember, getting started isn't all that hard. It's getting past that point that takes lots of hard work.
How do I get started as a screenwriter?
Write. Don't just write screenplays, but also write prose, keep a diary, take notes on things you see and hear and experience. Rewrite. Rewrite again. And again. And again. Once you've trimmed out all you can while still keeping your story intact, send it in to us or another production company. It's best to approach a producer with more than one script so that you can offer a choice.
Can you accept resumes, headshots, scripts, treatments, etc. by regular mail?
Yes, but please contact us first for details. However, we'd much rather receive your work electronically.
Why do you make films?
Because we have to. We're driven to do it, just as some people are driven to write or paint or sculpt.
Do you make porn?
Nope, but we're willing to learn. Just kidding.
Are you hiring?
Not exactly. The nature of filmmaking at our level doesn't allow for the hiring of regular employees. We do, however bring people aboard on a project-by-project basis.
Do you take on interns?
Not exactly. For most of our projects, most if not all of those involved are unpaid or are paid a stipend. As a result, everyone is essentially an intern.
What do you provide for those that work on your films?
At a minimum, meals, credit in the finished film and at least one copy of the film (VHS or DVD). When it's appropriate, we'll reimburse for mileage. Depending on the production, there's a good chance we'll offer points in the film, and if the budget is high enough, we'll pay anything from a token stipend up to union scale wages. Hopefully, regardless of the budget, you'll have fun and come away with samples of your work to help you build your career.
I have a film I want to make. Can you help with equipment, etc.?
Contact us and we'll talk.
Do you shoot on film or video?
Film when the budget allows, but most of the time on video. Keep in mind that shooting 16mm will run at least $300 per finished minute — at a minumum. And if the cast and crew are paid, equipment is rented, etc., you can see how a budget could mushroom. For our purposes, high quality digital video will work most of the time.
How do you distribute your films?
Any way we can. If we can get theatrical distribution, wonderful! Otherwise, DVD, Internet, video Ipod, cable TV, etc.
How did you come up with the name "Malfunction Films?"
Good question. We wish we knew.
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