Why are so many bad movies made?

Mark Travis:  Loss of vision. In the beginning every filmmaker has a worthy vision. Sadly, and all too frequently, that vision is not concretely contained in the script. Even when the vision is contained in the script, it can easily get lost with process of development, rehearsals, pre-production, production, and post-production. The filmmaking process is full of challenges, obstacles and distractions, which is why it is easy to lose the initial vision.

 
Frederick Johntz: Filmmaking is a very complex process where many things can go wrong.  Without a strong guiding force too many people can get involved in the decision making process and the final vision can get watered down.  It is also a business first and an art form second.  The need to make a return on investment can lead to safe choices aimed at the largest possible audiences.


Script consultants are a dime a dozen, why should I hire Travis-Johntz?
 
Mark: Because we are film consultants, not just script consultants. There's a big difference. Most script consultants read your script, tell you where it works, where it doesn't, and how to fix it.  This is based on their assumption or projection of what story you want to tell and why and how you want to tell it. 

As film consultants our job is to help you make the film that you see in your head.  It doesn't begin with the script; it begins with what is in your head and in your heart.  That's where we are different, that's where we go first.  Our analysis and consultation on your script is based totally on your vision, your passion, and your dream.  It is that vision that we want to get on the page and on the screen.  Also, you have to understand that we are two directors who are also writers.  We look at a script from a different perspective than most script analysts and consultants.  With filmmaking experience we understand the process of translating a script into a movie.  So, when reading a script, we are always asking, "Could this work on the screen?"  The final test of a good script is whether or not it can be translated successfully to the screen.

Frederick: Our script and film consulting service is a very interactive, brainstorming approach where we work with the writer to help him or her tell the story in their head.  Often that story is not on the page yet. It is only through dialogue that we can get to the core of what the writer wants to say in order to help say it in a clear and dramatic manner.

What is a creative consultant?

Mark: A creative consultant is an individual whose job it is to identify, clarify, and support the artistic vision and pursuit of another artist.  As creative consultants, we help our clients achieve their artistic vision.  It is not our job to impose our vision or sensibilities.  It is our job to challenge, enhance, and support our clients so that they can express themselves as fully and honestly as possible.  As third eyes to the process (writing, directing, and acting) we are able to see opportunities and potential that may be elusive or overlooked by our clients.  We guide them to new discoveries and insights.  We encourage them to take risks that could lead to more satisfying and meaningful projects.  We remind them of their goals and the visions they created. We keep them on track while expanding your horizons.

Do you have any pre-requisites for your private script or directorial
consulting?

Travis-Johntz offers a wide range of consulting. It all depends on what your goals are and the status of your project.

• NEW SCRIPT: If you want a private consultation for script writing, all you need is the idea or the story.  We can begin there.
   
• EXISTING SCRIPT:  If you want a private consultation for a completed script then you need to show us the script.
   
• DIRECTING: If you want a private consultation on directing (without a specific project) then all you need is the passion, desire, and willingness to learn.
   
• FILM PREPARATION: If you want directorial consultation in relationship to a specific script that you are going to direct, then, we need to start with that script and your vision.

What are some rigors of film production?

Mark: I've written an entire book, Directing Feature Films, on this subject. For me to answer this question in a few short paragraphs feels like an impossible task.  But at the core, the greatest rigor of production is the technical and time strain on your creative soul.  Within each filmmaker's soul lurks a story wanting to be told.  The filmmaker has to protect that story from the brutal exposure to budgets, schedules, personalities, and technology.  That is, perhaps, the greatest challenge.

Frederick: Time is the biggest rigor of production.  You are always under the gun, never enough time, never enough money.  You have to be able to think clearly under tremendous pressure.  The best antidote to this is preparation.  Production is physically and mentally exhausting, without a clear plan you can easily get lost.

For a consultation, please contact us.