Holding Your Fortune: Why is Indie Filmmaking a Lot like Gambling?
Not all films are cornered by large film studios. Many of the groundbreaking ones are now brought out by independent filmmakers. This got us thinking that indie filmmaking is eerily like gambling. Let us explain.
We gave this quite a bit of thought and we realized that both things can be quite similar. Here are some solid reasons why:
It Requires Planning
Indie Filmmakers will always tell you that there is a staggering amount of logistics that goes into filming. You’ll have to see if actors or subject are free, if the location is viable, if the equipment is ready, and so many other things. Trying to film an indie film will require massive amounts of planning.
On a different font, gambling will require planning as well. You need to have an idea of your bankroll, how often you’ll play, what’s your limit, and who you can count on to keep you in line.
It Requires Skill
Indie Filmmakers will tell you that you will need to have skill in order to establish a cohesive story. It takes a lot of practice and tries to get a shot just right or to get your actors to really bring your vision to life. If everyone can do it, everyone would. But successful indie films require skill.
Gambling will also require skill. We’ve seen this in films like 21. People who go blindly into a bet or baccarat will find themselves facing a loss.
Results May Vary
Indie Filmmakers will tell you that there is no real way to tell how your film is going to be received one you have launched it. You can have the people you work with love it but then the public hates it. The inverse is also true.
Gambling is something that revolves around chance. There is no 100% way of telling that you’ll get the result you want.
So as you can see, if we compare them side by side, we can infer that indie filmmaking is a lot like gambling. What are your thoughts about this comparison?