Early on in my days of wanting to be a film director, I longed for substantial achievements such as award nominations and wins, prestige and money, and satisfaction, above all else. Some of these results still matter, albeit not as much as they once did. Many of the trivial ones have lost their appeal altogether. So then, I had to figure out why the hell I am making movies. What’s the point? What is going to keep me wanting to participate in the madness of independent film? I’m still trying to find my way, and am closer to defining -- for myself -- what it means to make movies, after remembering a letter by Frank Ocean that I read, more than once. That’s when it hit me:
I want to create worlds that are rosier than mine.
No matter what the subject matter is for any movie I make, I can use my work as a tool to help people in some way, shape or form; and thus, creating rosier worlds for the people and causes that are in need of them.
Whatever it means, I think I can do this. I found the edge. Can you live there with me?
Also, be sure to read yesterday's post featuring two socially conscious film directors who share their views on VALIDATION!