Should I absolutely need to move to LA, if I am a film maker?

[Samoi137]

A question that's been asked at least since the 1940s, if not before. Nowadays, films, even commercial mass production films, are made all over the world. What classes have you taken? You could take at least some before moving. What experience do you have? With no experience, I personally wouldn't suggest moving. Too many other people there, some with actual experience, trying to break into the field (and working other jobs in the meanwhile). Have you looked into taking classes and trying to get at least some exprience, even in industrial films? Once you have additional knowledge, and have talked with instructors, etc., you could make some exploratory trips to the L.A. area and try to get some informational interviews (to ask about the industry and how to break into it, not necessarily to apply for a job-- since there may not be one, at least one you're qualified for YET). You may get pointers that will help you to get a job later one, whether in Southern California or elsewhere. I am sure you know the odds of getting a good job are slim, but you can certainly try. I would definitely try to learn as much about technical aspects as possible. Always think what would make you the one to get hired over others.

I imagine you could take at least some basic classes wherever you life, but there are also advanced courses in many places, including New York City (e.g., New York Film Academy), though such courses can be very expensive.

Are you sure your unemployment money would continue if you leave Florida? You wouldn't be eligible for benefits in California for a while. Really, do research and get some knowledge and experience before considering a move.

[Zen2009]

Update : My plan is to make short films and put it on youtube. I just need to find people and thought it would be easier to find people in LA..Was I wrong ?

[Lumerian Feast]

Originally Posted by Zen2009

Update : My plan is to make short films and put it on youtube. I just need to find people and thought it would be easier to find people in LA..Was I wrong ?

You can do that from anywhere. No need to move to LA. Yes, you'll find more people with higher skills in film production here, but you'll usually have to pay them (unless you're good friends or can offer them some other benefit), all while trying to afford living in LA.

[Zen2009]

Looks like I am going to stay here in Jacksonville , Florida and grow some strong roots ( Atleast for 4-5 months ) ..

[whoisjongalt]

You have absolutely NO need to move to LA unless you want to go to a specific film school or try and work your way up in the "industry". If you want to make your own movies, shorts, etc. you'd be way better off where you are.

[alto100]

Originally Posted by Zen2009

I live in jacksonville, florida right now and I am trying to make films. Not acting. But making it. I have about close to 7k saved up and I will be getting unemployment in about 2 weeks ( that comes to around $1000/ month ) .Is this enough to move to L.A ?

Also I have a car. I just need to tune it up before driving from Florida. Everyone keeps talking about moving to L.A. You should move to L.A . L.A is where you need to be. Is it really true? I mean the reason I am asking this question is because I am not trying to get into acting. I don't want to wait tables for months on end to get a job . I have done all that and then some already..Which is how I saved $7k..

Where do you think I should live and also What benefits will i get by making this move ( in regards to Film making ) ? I am not worried about moving and renting and such . I have moved a lot in my life and I get around. I just want to know if it'll be of "Any" benefit to me or not. If not I will be dropping this idea and focus on finding actors and actresses here in Florida itself ..Which is why I want to move. because It's hard to find actors or actresses to come out for audition for some reason.

If you can produce where you are today and with communications the way they are, why spend the money? It is more expensive to have the same standard you are accustomed to now here in LA. If you need to make physical contact you will have to determine if relocation or extended trips will be the most profitable. The point here is your production work should come first. That is what opens doors.

[John23]

I would say get good at something.

How many people (millions of people?) move here just to be an actor. Or just to make films. What kind of films? Why are they any good? Why should I see them?

-Maybe a better question. What directors have I studied, or have been influenced by? What am I good at? I read something (might have been a youtube video), Speilberg studied hundreds of directors from the 20th century. All over the world, all genres. Thats how you get really good. It doesn't just "happen".