Inspirational
Inspirational Stage 32 Blogs
Stage 32 Member Spotlight: Derek Johnson, Director & Cinematographer
Did you know that Stage 32 has more than just screenwriters in its global community? There are tons of cinematographers, editors, animators, producers, and filmmakers, to name a few. Whether shorts or features, documentary or narrative, independent or studio productions, we’re all here! One of the best reflections from today’s guest is simply - you never know who you’re going to meet! What am I saying is - Derek Johnson comes with a slew of valuable nuggets of wisdom! Lifting up and amplifying...


Behind the Scenes of Acting, Stunts and Directing with Jackie Chan and Major TV & Film Projects
Hi guys, I thought it was time to make a film blog; seventy-odd productions ranging from lead, stunts and directing, to shooting in jungles, deserts and military bases and acting with Special Forces and the worlds best-known stunt team, the Jackie Chan team. I'm going to take you into the heart of filming, from my personal experience shooting on major film and TV, including working daily with stars and renown directors. This is part one of several; I'll discuss particular productions wit...


The Economics of Short Films
You’re a filmmaker, a writer, a director, maybe even an actor. You want to keep working, but the phone’s not ringing so… you decide to shoot a short film. Before you start down the rabbit hole you may want to ask a few questions. Why do I want to shoot a short film? What resources do I have at my disposal? What resources will I need to obtain? And the most impactful question: What’s it going to cost? Anyone who has ever taken on the challenge of shooting a short knows that there ar...


Announcing the 2nd Annual New Voices in Animation Screenwriting Contest
Thanks to the successes of instant classics like ZOOTOPIA, TOY STORY, THE LEGO MOVIE and SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE, and daring TV satires such as RICK AND MORTY, BOJACK HORSEMAN, BIG MOUTH, and BOB’S BURGERS, the wonderful world of animation is more exciting, diverse, and in demand than ever! There is truly something for everyone when it comes to animated features and TV series & correspondingly, it is undoubtedly more in demand than ever before! Walt Disney said, "Animation can expl...


Stage 32 Joins Forces with Chapman University Dodge College of Film & Media Arts to Provide Students & Alumni with New Opportunities
Good morning Stage 32 Creative Crew! I am excited to kick off the first Monday in May with a major announcement. As you know, since 2011, Stage 32 has been a leader in connecting and educating film, tv, and digital creatives and professionals worldwide. Our mission is to democratize the film industry and provide education and opportunities for those who dream of having a career in the industry to achieve their goals. Our partners include Netflix, Cannes, the American Film Market and dozens...


Coffee & Content: The Wes Anderson Aesthetic & The Psychology of Character Relationships
Happy Sunday Creative Army! Have you had a creative weekend so far? I have some content here for you that is sure to get the creative juices flowing, so grab your coffee and let's dive in. First up, our friends over at Studio Binder recently put together a fascinating breakdown of Wes Anderson's iconic directing aesthetic. This video illustrates Wes Anderson's style throughout the entire filmmaking process including story, production design, color, editing, music, and more. They use examples...


5 Ways Writing Helped Me Overcome Stress
People from all works of life live with stress, which has sometimes led to other more serious health issues. This is a personal account of how writing helped me cope with and manage stress. Corporate Background I worked as an accountant for several years in a company with offices in multiple countries and clients in different time zones. This was challenging enough in the best of times because of the fast-paced environment and the inherent pressures of the profession. But also at the worst of...


Why (and How) to Join the Writers Guild of America
So, you’re a writer and you’ve written some scripts that have been optioned, maybe even produced, or someone hired you to write on a series. Congratulations, you’re off to a great start. Now what? Keep writing, because that’s your job as a professional. If you are hired to write for a company who is a signatory of the Writers Guild of America, either East or West, you will be required to join. A signatory company is any company that has signed the WGA’s collective bargaining agreement. What...


In the News: How Stage 32 Became A Global Powerhouse By Combining Entertainment And Tech
Happy Monday Creative Army! As you know, Stage 32's continued mission is to democratize the entertainment business and the industry is taking notice in a big way. In addition to our previous coverage in Business Insider (check out the articles here and here), The Wrap, Variety, CNN, and more - I am pleased to announce our recent feature in Forbes. I had the pleasure of speaking with Forbes Senior Contributor Shama Hyder about growing the Stage 32 community, how Stage 32 has become a "global...


Coffee & Content: Every 2021 Oscar-Nominated Film on Netflix & Behind the Scenes of "Mank"
Happy Oscar Sunday Creative Army! With the much anticipated 2021 Oscars taking place this evening, naturally, I have some Oscars-themed content for you today. I've got my coffee in hand and your Oscars content coming in hot - grab your coffee of choice and let's dive right in. First up, Netflix UK & Ireland has compiled a full list of 2021 Oscar-Nominated films that are currently available to watch on Netflix. While you likely won't be able to watch all 37 available films before the big...

