How to Get Your Short Out In the World & Write to Your Darkest Instincts

In life, we can’t please everyone. There will be people who “get us” and others who simply don’t. It’s the same when you’re a filmmaker. Your work won’t vibe with everyone who sees it, and that’s totally okay! It’s time to face your fears, give it your all, and create those projects that reveal your darkest instincts. 

In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Sam Baron and Madison Lanesy to discuss: 

• What it’s like to receive polarized reactions 
• Feeling terrified to share projects with personal subject matter
• Career lessons from Ice Age and Mrs.Doubtfire 
• Having a YouTube video go viral at 17 years old
• The story behind the name of Sam’s short, The Orgy
• Turning in films as book reports in middle school
• The beauty and freedom of improv acting
• Sam’s process of submitting shorts
• Pushing past fear and discomfort
• Working with a team that believes in your project
• Making personal sacrifices while working on projects 

Memorable Quotes

• “Working on any project takes so much from you…so you better make sure it’s a worthwhile project you really care about.” [18:51]
• “You need to take the temperature of the audience, but you also need to take the temperature of yourself. If you just do one or the other, you’re going to get out of balance.” [32:00]
• “I accidentally proved a concept by being true to my deep, creative nature.” [52:41]
• “Get to know yourself as a filmmaker. You are the only you.” [76:42]

Mentioned

Here's What Happens When You Win the Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting

Is This the Tool Filmmakers Need to Find Their Audience?

Short: Tall Dark and Handsome

Short: The Orgy

Short: YES, DADDY

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Follow Madison on IG

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