Kolton Lee
Writer/Director
Prophet Films
Kolton’s track record as a Writer/Directors spans over 12 years. Kolton has recently completed the hard hitting short film BLOOD, picked up for distribution by MTV north America, and his second feature film, FREESTYLE, set for release in the cinemas in the UK in February. FREESTYLE is a teen movie, an urban romance set in the world of street basketball.
Kolton Lee will be appearing at the ideas and ipods seminar on 26th February 2010 Click here for more details.
1. What does a Film Director do?
A Film Director is responsible for all creative decisions in the making of the film. That includes the creative decisions in terms of the talent of the crew hired to make the film, the actors hired to be in the film, the look of the film, colour tones, the way the camera moves, the costumes worn, the music and the locations used.
2. What are the key attributes of a Director?
An ability to communicate with all different types of people; a keen aesthetic sense; patience; tenacity.
3. At what stage should a Scriptwriter and producer consider hiring a Director?
Once the script is as good as the scriptwriter can make, a director, the right director, should be hired as soon as possible. Most decent actors won’t commit to a film unless the director is attached and since a Director will want to hire their own crew, it makes sense to bring the Director on before any other creative decisions are taken.
4. What are the rates for hiring a Director?
That depends on the Director. The more experienced you are, the better you are, the more a Director can charge. This is a free market.
5. What are your key tips for hiring a Director?
First, always look at their previous work and so have a sense of what they have done. Then interview them carefully to know what kind of work they would like to do in the future. If there’s a point of contact here – on a work level, but also on a personal level – think of hiring them. Also, talk to people who have worked with them in the past, see what they say.
Remember, to make a feature film means you will be working together for about a year. If you make the wrong choice you are stuck with it for at least that length of time so think carefully. Finally, always treat them with respect; it’s a difficult job.
6. Top three tips to be a Director
- Read alot – scripts, novels, plays;
- Watch all the movies you can;
- Visit art galleries.
Previous Q&As included
Lola Dauda – Script Supervisor
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