Redefining Filmmaking Success: Challenge, Freedom and Growth

In this podcast episode of The Crimson Engine, we deep dive into the concept of success as a filmmaker. What does it really mean to "make it"? How do envy and societal expectations shape our goals?
Explore the balance between passion and practicality, the traps of comparison, and how to find fulfillment in the creative process. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights to help you align your goals with your true creative purpose.
Explore more at www.canonmasterclass.com

[@cgustaff4807]

Creativity and laughter is what makes me happy. Always remember to find humor in the trivial things that won’t matter in the grand scheme of life. Thank you for your wisdom.

[@marcosmenescal2962]

I started my filmmaking career back in 1989, working my way up from a loader to second AC, first AC, Steadicam operator, DP, director, EP, producer, and lastly, owning a film production company for 20 years. I've been involved in all sorts of projects, from small guerrilla documentaries to big Hollywood productions. I've had the chance to work with directors Tom Hooper, Tony Scott, Spike Lee, and Jim Jarmusch, and DPs Lance Accord, Bill Butler, Malik Sayeed, Dan Mindel, and many others. I’ve been through all the challenges with equipment, post-production, and budget management. I've worked with all cameras you can think of: Arri 2C, 3, BL4, Aaton, Mitchell, Photosonics, Bolex, and Panavision, including underwater and aerial systems like Spacecam. I had a successful career, but I was tired of the whole circus and decided to 'retire' in 2012 to take care of my four children. I only discovered true success when I chose to dedicate my life to my family.

[@jb9video]

I totally enjoy this podcast! Thank you so much. It helped me to realize a few things about my videography/filmmaking ambitions. Thanks again!

[@nathanielbuchanan2727]

thank you for this video. I'm a actor based in Atlanta and I've been acting for 4 years now, I've had to learn to switch my mindset and focus on my own plate vs others. it's brought me more happiness that way and I've accomplished more by bettering myself and not worrying about my competition.

[@MarkD3P]

Thank you for this - loving the new format, two episodes in. I especially love the new closing line, if that's what it is: "Don't die with your films still inside you." That says it all. Your ramblings make for an inspirational morning thinking about filmmaking.

[@Crimsonengine]

Thanks Mark!

[@arlenaholmes]

Well said ....this applies to anyone in any profession or aspect of life!!!!

[@AIdrisPalmer]

Love your videos. You have NO idea how insightful and inspirational they are. Kudos.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

I've been thinking a lot on this recently, as ultimately my aim is to make high quality short films that can act as a calling card towards eventually making funded indie or studio films with a decent budget. But I'm in a very lucky position in that I'm self employed, and 95% of my work is between March and November, so I essentially have three months off in the winter to make films - and because I live in Scotland I'm blessed with amazing scenery and locations, all within a 5 or 6 hour drive - so realistically I could shoot a 70 minute feature every winter, and a 5 minute short through the spring, summer and autumn. So rather than chasing the 'funded filmmaker' model, trying to get backers for projects, maybe I should just settle in and make a movie every year in my free time, as my self employment makes enough money to cover rent and bills etc the rest of the year. Ultimately isn't that what we all want, the financial security and free time to make movies, both short and long form? Equipment is so cheap and collaboration so easy these days, do we need to chase studio money to be 'successful' filmmakers, or do we just need to make the films we want to make and enjoy the process?

[@ZvilgantisKailis]

For me success is a results. Maybe you hate accounting but if you are good with numbers and you get results then you are successful accountant.

[@treyvollmerDP]

Any path void of eternal joy is ultimately meaningless. Without an eternal plan philosophies are temporary cough syrup for the itchy soul.