How to make an indie movie

[Editor’s note: An indie film is an “indie” film because it is supposed to be out of the box, independent (where the term “indie” comes from), free of any rules and patterns that are evident in mainstream movies.

But communication arts student Miel Abong, an indie film fan, has noticed that certain elements seem to be present in most — if not all — indie films she has watched. 

She wrote this piece for Rappler to share her observations with us. You are free to agree, disagree or to add other elements you’ve noticed in indie films you’ve watched, too.

Please share your thoughts with us by posting your comments below.]

MANILA, Philippines – Do you know what it takes to make an indie film?

I’m not a professional filmmaker but I’m a fan of indie movies, and I’ve noticed quite a number of similarities among indie films I’ve watched.

When you watch a mainstream RomCom (romantic comedy) there’s the inevitable awkwardness or introverted nature of a girl who gets the attention of a man who is filthy rich, really famous, a jerk or all of the above. He is then so taken aback by her awkwardness or her guts to talk back at him that he falls in love with her.

Face it, the scenario has happened more than once or twice.

There are many certainties in mainstream film since it has proven that these elements sell. After all, it is show business.

Most people tell me that indie films are born to break free from the tyranny of large production companies; but could there be elements in indie films that have become as inevitable as the elements in mainstream film?

Here are some commonalities I’ve observed among indie films I’ve watched:

1) Unscoring

In most mainstream films, every second is filled in by either a score or the most efficient sound effects.

In an independent film, directors usually look for the more organic material that has undergone a minimal amount of post-processing.

I’ve also noticed there’s a lot of rustling and scrunching. It seems to be cool. I agree.

2) The Wait

The actor is on the opposite side of the street and the camera is still. Cars may or may not pass, but every other second the actor is magically on a different side of the street doing something else.

The message? He/she’s been waiting there a while.

3) The Big Picture

Let’s just say I’ve seen a number of indie films with the view of a landscape, only to realize later that the speck on the screen was actually the lead character sitting on a rock… pondering.

4) The Commute

A number of Philippine indie films have this. The audio is the noise of a daily commute and you will see the lead character still sleepy on the jeep, non-aircon bus, or tricycle, moving along with the violent movement of the rickety vehicle. 

5) The Rule of Non-Thirds

A lot of Indie filmmakers seem to like this. The point of focus is either found off-center or completely off.

Those who are unaccustomed to this style of shooting might think that the cinematographer placed the camera somewhere just hoping the actor might cross the screen. 

6) Guerrilla

Shooting without a tripod or anything to support the camera. It’s merciless on the eyes sometimes; but if done right, it could be quite appealing.

Basically, the differences between independent and mainstream films depend on the objectives of the producers and the directors.

Most times, directors and producers turn to the independent route in order to make sure they have full creative control of their projects.

But because so many go down the indie path, one can’t help but wonder if independent film is, in its own way, starting to become mainstream. – Rappler.com