How to Make an Underground Film
As an independent filmmaker or someone aspiring to create your own film, you might be wondering what’s involved? Learning how to make an underground film is something that many aspiring filmmakers seek to achieve. But with limited funds and sometimes limited experience, the challenges of traditional cinema are simply too complex and out of reach. The rules of underground cinema are certainly different from what you would expect in Hollywood. Thus, learning how to make an underground film may be quite different from what you’re expecting.
Anything Goes
First, and foremost, when learning how to make an underground film it’s important for you to understand that basically anything goes.
You are certainly not under the confines of the traditional cinema industry. And the structures of institution filmmaking do not exist when producing an underground film.
Thus, creating unique content that is clearly a step away from “industry standards”. Or from what you might expect to see in traditional cinema is okay, and perfectly acceptable.
Creativity is King
With underground filmmaking, there is more focus on creativity and less on the confines of traditional cinema. Underground filmmakers celebrate originality and make it okay to think outside the box.
In fact, underground films are often creative collaborations between several producers, or artists, that are far beyond what you might expect to see in a theater and yet, they can be incredibly powerful.
Keep in mind that today’s definition of “Underground” filmmaking is not necessarily that of shock cinema. Many underground film festivals welcome creative works of all genres and types.
It’s not necessarily expecting traditional “underground films” that have a cinematic transgression towards all things dark and deep. While edgy films are equally accepted. You shouldn’t feel like you must create something edgy in order for it to be considered underground.
Experiment with Technology
One of the great things about learning how to make an underground film is that you have the opportunity now. To experiment with a variety of technology features and tools that are at your disposal. Now more than ever before, filmmakers have tools at their disposal.
Even those who are working on a small or incredibly limited budget can incorporate significant use of technology into their filmmaking projects. Don’t be afraid to experiment with multiple technologies in your independent or underground filmmaking adventures.
Learning how to make an underground film is really all about using your imagination, creativity, and love for filmmaking and cinema. To engage your audience and dig deep into your arsenal of tools. And experience to deliver a powerful message.
While underground is not necessarily dark, it can be deeply technical if that’s what you make of it. Consider the use of experimental techniques, interactive programming, and a variety of concepts to bring your creativity to the screen and share your love of cinema with your audience.
