Pursuing a career in Movie Directing, whats holding me back?

Question

As I am writing this for yahoo, I still have no idea on what type of career I should focus on? I am 19 yrs old and on the verge of finishing my general studies at a local community college. Now my life has become perplexed by having so many questions on what I really want to do with my life, directing movies or going to law school(the typical answer for undecided people) . I know the typical answer would be to follow your heart, but the main thing that is holding me back in declaring film as my major, is the simple fact that my experience on movie making is very limited.By doing alot of research on this type of occupation(diecting) the percentage on becoming the next Bret Ratner or Spielberg is extremely small, due to so many inspiring film makers out there . Please let me know on what I should do, is it to late to pursue a film making career?

Answer 1

Look I also want to be a movie director. I would say follow your heart, being a lawyer ain't that easy too. If you have the heart, courage and the dedication, than you can do it. I just graduated High School and I am going to go to school for that. Look Ratner, Spielberg didnt become an over night sensation, Quentin Tarantino become hot when he was 35 years old, and look at him. Just take some time to think it out and you'll make the right choice.

Answer 2

First thing you need to ask yourself is: are you willing to relocate after graduation to pursue your career? It is not a necessary thing, but it can help you in the film industry. If you love filmmaking, you have to know that in your heart. Even if you experience is very limited, you can still achieve your goal although it may be in a varied state of your original dream.

I live in Alabama and have worked in the film and entertainment industry for the better part of twenty years. I wanted to make movies in Alabama. It has not been an easy ride and I have had to work other type jobs in dry spells, but filmmaking is in my blood. Once it gets a grip, it never turns loose. Hello. My name is TJ and I am a filmmaker. lol

You can work as a director your whole career and never achieve the status of a Ratner, Speilberg or Bruckheimer. There is nothing wrong with being an indy director for your entire career. A producer/director named David A. Prior who is from Alabama has made more than three dozen movies with name stars as low-budget, indy projects.

The art of film requires dedication and loyality. But most of all it requires a deep seeded love that leaves you feeling empty if you are not studying or working it. Good luck to you.

Answer 3

Empire of the Sun I was surprised at how many movies I think of as "Spielberg movies" weren't directed by him. BQ: first three times I watched either it was Saving Private Ryan, then it switched to Schindler's list, which I've still never watched three times. BBQ: Disagree. I think if you judged him purely on his directing he deserves less praise. For every one great movie he has made, he seems to have made a mediocre one( an Always, Hook or Minority Report), a special effects sequel (the last three Indiana Jones movies, and a special effects block buster. There is no real honor in being being the director of Jurassic Park, those accolades should go to the effects department. And there is quite a bit of shame that should go with directing Jurassic Park 2..

Answer 4

I'm in the same position as u r. But i want to b an animator. I guess may be one day we can collaborate and make a masterpiece.

Answer 5

Forget about movie directing.
Major in something that has an obvious career goal.
You'll thank me when you graduate.

Answer 6

You should talk to people in this business instead of posting questions on Yahoo!

Answer 7

The fact that you don't know what you want to do is holding you back.