Wednesday, March 08, 2000 - Oh, Susie Q

I think the most important lesson to be learned in making a film is that perseverence can be a reward in itself. There are many pressures in our society today which influence lack of persistence. If you see another job that pays more, quit and go to the new company. Hey, they're offering stock options. Company folds, pick up and move on. House too small? Pick up and move on. Better jobs out West? Pick up and move on. Caught your husband with the Nanny? Pick up and move on.

Clearly, there have been many times I've wanted to pick up and move on when it comes to this film. But, as Francis Coppola elequently put it, "How do you fire yourself?" Depression, despair, money problems. you just have to live with them. Then something happens that nudges you and makes you appreciate the experience of making your film.

And the most recent thing that has given me immense joy was watching the film again. I haven't seen it in ages, was sick to death of looking at it during post. A lot of directors say (I hear these things on the DVD tracks sometimes) that once they make their film they never have much desire to see it again. The release of the movie as a turning point in moving on. And I can appreciate this. But to me it's like watching a child grow. You see so much of yourself in it, but it really has its own life now, and it's beautiful, flaws and all.

I'm finally feeling energetic again.

-George