Mark's Pro Tip #9

Pro Tip #9 - Work With People You Actually Like

If you are fortunate enough to have discretion in choosing partners for your projects, then this one is very simple. You are going to work with the people you choose to make a film with for months, sometimes years. You should get to know them personally and make sure you click. There's nothing worse than being stuck on a long project with someone you can't stand. Make sure your personalities click, that you share values and that you see the world of filmmaking (not just the film you're about to make) in a similar way. Ask yourself, "Would I actually hang out with this person?" Because you're going to be spending a lot of time together. If possible, ask someone you already know, like and trust who has worked with the person whether they got a long. Does this person have a good reputation? Or have they ostracized numerous others? Don't underestimate the need to like who you're working with. Yes, creative alignment and resource sharing is important, but if you like your filmmaking partners, it will lower your blood pressure and make the whole darn experience a lot more enjoyable. I mean, after all, isn't that why we got into movie-making in the first place? Because we enjoy it? Let's keep it that way.