ON FILM (A RANT)

A medium, which could be described as the convergence of multiple forms of media into one highly saturated power outlet. To effectively understand the awesome power of film one must understand each individual characteristic and gain a mastery of each of these individual sectors, in brief: Music, Art, Written Word, Theatre, Technology, Motion, Life. Yet an individual understanding of these are not enough, it is the understanding of each individual component and the manner in which they compliment and contrast each other that truly makes for great appreciation of Film. A great filmmaker, is one who has a comprehensive understanding of each individual medium and is able to bring them together in perfect harmony.

“Film is but the battle ground of every media, each in constant motion, always competing with each other, and in collection the creation of true beauty and Art.” James Honiball

On the subject matter of film:

I honestly believe that the subject matter should not be forced, I personally believe it must have come from a pure moment of creativity. Whether it be a reflection of the ‘real’ world or a fictional world, so be it. One thing that I wish to highlight is that film has the innate ability of creating a ‘what if’ world. It enables us as a society to see multiple outcomes of a specific ideology or action, without having to go through it in real life. All projected on a screen for the world to see and judge.

I do not agree with the dumbing down of audiences, I believe in the upliftment of the human-mind, by challenging its norms, constructs and beliefs. I want you to think, that is all.

On crappy attitudes within the industry:

I’m tired of people thinking so much of themselves, because they are filmmakers. Your just a person like any other. An ego may be healthy, but arrogance is just sickening! Films are not made by individuals, but are made in a collective understanding of specialized individuals. “ You are a special snowflake, just like everyone else” Fight Club

I urge everyone within the film industry of South Africa, to put your vices and egoistical-problems aside and for once work toward the greater good of film in South Africa. I urge you to invite young filmmakers, students and people who are just interested in the process of film making, and treat them with respect, as your example will be followed. Action must be taken, you are loosing the next generation of filmmakers. I have had the great opportunity to have had worked with some of these talented minds.

Film Education and Watchdog Societies:

Some truly think that a director sits on a high-chair screaming at people, just this general conception proves the lack of understanding of filmmaking. ENOUGH SAID.

I’m tired of seeing professionals breaking the most fundamental conventions of filmmaking. I’m tired of having to watch badly written,shot,directed,acted: soap operas, shows, movies and advertisements, when will we as a the film industry come together and decide on what is acceptable and what is not, when will we put our feet down and say no to shit ?!? You might not think that this is of extreme importance, but your reputation hangs in the balance. And as we all well know, perceptions can me more destructive than reality itself is.

This being said, there but a few that take the time and help others on their way to film enlightenment, for this I applaud you! (Visual Impact, to name but one entity)


You will be hearing from me again. :)

By James Honiball