ASK & DISCUSS INDEX

7 years, 4 months ago - Annabelle Amato

Hi Michael,

My passion lies in directing, but I struggle to find screenplays out there that really spark with me. This means I end up writing stuff for myself, but it's not a creative process I particularly enjoy.

Did you set out to be a writer / director, or did you do it out of necessity? Have you worked with writers in the past, and if so, how did you find them? Finally, as someone who really just wants to direct, do you think I should just be less picky and just start directing other people's scripts even if I'm not in love with them??

Would love to hear your thoughts.

THANKS! AA

7 years, 4 months ago - Mark Ryan

I've had an idea for a feature for a few years now, but am too scared to start writing it for fear that it will take me ages to finish / that it won't get realized. How did you approach writing a feature length script for the first time, how long did it take you to write it, and how exactly did you get it from page to screen? Finally, what advice would you have for someone in my current position?

7 years, 4 months ago - Hani Abusamra

Hi Michael,

What was your casting process? What did you take into consideration when meeting talent e.g. did you only audition actors who already had a certain amount of experience or who had attended drama school? Did you rehearse any of the work with the actors before shooting? Have you got any advice for directing actors on set?

Cheers,
Hani

7 years, 4 months ago - SP Team

Hi Michael, I saw that you studied film at Bournemouth university and then also at the NFTS. Do you think that film school is a necessity for new filmmakers? Or do you think that it's possible to learn just as much through other routes?

Thanks!

7 years, 4 months ago - Eveline Barry

I loved your film Rite and really responded to both of the characters emotional journeys, they are both really well drawn. There are also some strong themes there that have been really delicately handled. I'd be really interested to know how you develop your ideas and if it's character that comes to you first or if it's story or maybe it varies depending on the project. :)

7 years, 3 months ago - Leonie Shanks

From when you got the idea to make Beast, to getting it into the cinema, how long was that process and what were the key stages of development?

7 years, 3 months ago - Stephanie Walton

I find it can be really hard to just get noticed in the film industry. I’ve made a few shorts, but haven’t yet got my film into festivals. Any advice on how I can take the next step and progress with my career?

7 years, 3 months ago - Chloe Trayner

Congratulations on making your debut feature - that’s a real accomplishment! It’s often said that the real difficulty comes in making your second feature. How much does funding for your next project depend on the critical and financial success of Beast?

7 years, 3 months ago - Vasco de Sousa

How did you get the money? Or, get the producer who got the money?

7 years, 3 months ago - Schuman Hoque

Hi Michael, I remember seeing 'Rite' at Rushes (my co-directed short 'Papa' was competing in the short form category the same year) and really enjoyed it.

My debut feature film is currently in post production and as I think about the next steps of my career, I'm wondering what is more important, securing an agent/manager or a Producing partner with access to production funds? Which has been more influential/important for you?

7 years, 3 months ago - Helen Jack

Thanks for your questions Vasco and Schuman. Unfortunately, questions had already been submitted to Michael when you responded. You can read his response over on the blog - https://shootingpeople.org/blog/2018/05/beast-director-michael-pearce-answers-your-questions/

Helen

7 years, 3 months ago - Vasco de Sousa

Thanks Helen.
I enjoyed reading it, or skimming it anyway. He sounds very mature for someone who only made one feature, and I like the fact that he seems to be telling it like it is, and not what people want to hear. Not my kind of film, but sounds like a likeable guy.