Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Entering Documentary Challenge

Well, it's been a while since I blogged (what is the number of blog entries that start this way?  Too many I suspect.)

I was finishing a book, editing a show, and working for two clients - but now I am waiting for editing notes, and getting organized for....drum roll please....I've entered the Documentary Challenge.  Next week I will be creating a team with some of my favorite colleagues to create a 5 to 7 minute documentary in 5 days.   I'm usually loathe to enter contests of any sort, but in the past when i've either written plays, or made short narrative films in short time spans I have LOVED the experience. 

The think I found most difficult about taking the plunge here (aside from my freakish hatred of contests) was making the shift from editor to that other thing - producer/director.  I mean I produce and direct for clients all the time - but that's always with a very clear objective.  I'm used to making art as an editor, working with someone else's material.  There is something I LOVE about being the scavenger, the hunter sifting through material to really make something work.   

The thought of having to be the entity also responsible for providing and creating that material feels extreeeemely uncomfortable. I think part of what makes me a good editor is loving seeing what people have been working on for years - their ideas, all the stuff they've collected.  I like entering the process at that point.  SO - now, thanks to Documentary Challenge (and my friend Hannah who sent me the link in the first place) I will be assuming the mantle of full creator from the beginning of a film project. 

I will keep you posted as best I can, and welcome any suggestions ; - )

Talk more soon, 

Stephanie Hubbard.