With hundreds of careers and opportunities, the filmmaking industry can be a unique experience for a filmmaker. Options include pitching an idea, or a commission through screenwriting, casting, shooting, editing, and screening your project. Filmtools decided to take a deeper look into the world of a Filmmaker. This week, we had the opportunity to speak to Filmmaker Andy McEntire about his work. This is what he said:
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got to where you are in your career?
Andy McEntire: I grew up in West Palm Beach, graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University and began filming luxury vacations around the world. After documenting the lifestyles of the wealthy and famous, my company Indie Atlantic Films decided to focus on commercial projects. From there, I directed a national tv show and other commercials. Today, we work with companies both locally and globally.
Why did you choose this field?
Andy McEntire: Storytelling has always been a passion of mine. My father is a pastor and I grew up around some incredible people doing incredible things around the world. Hearing him share stories always stuck with me. My middle school media production teacher, when I was 12, pushed us to document what was around us and challenged us to produce content. That’s when I first found a passion. My high school TV production teacher helped mold my passion into real filmmaking. He forced me to learn Final Cut Pro when it first came out. I chose this field because I wanted to create beautiful films, help tell the stories of those who couldn’t and to change the world for the better.
What inspires you?
Andy McEntire: A story that can move people to action inspires me most. My family and our entire Indie Atlantic Films team inspires me to be the best I can be, to never compromise quality. I’ve learned that filmmaking isn’t about me. It’s about who you surround yourself with and their loyalty.
What kinds of projects have you been involved with before?
Andy McEntire: There have been countless cool projects we’ve worked on at Indie Atlantic Films. One of my favorites was for a show called Game time and it was one of my first times Directing a national show. We worked with Doc Rivers (NBA coach) and his son Austin Rivers. On the flip side, I spent time in South Korea with my wife documenting an orphanage for disabled children. That was life changing and opened my eyes to a global perspective.
Have any of these projects made an impact on you?
Andy McEntire: Fly Like a Girl (flylikeagirl.film) is a documentary that we are working on right now. So far, we have self funded and are now seeking the help of the community to take it a step further. This is a feature documentary that promotes women in aviation and STEM. Fly Like a Girl will inspire girls and women who no longer want to be passengers.
Do you have a piece of essential gear that you don’t leave without?
Andy McEntire: This one is easy. Our film production cart from Filmtools has allowed us to grow our productions, look professional and more mobile. It’s a base station for us as we are on location all over the world.
You walk onto set, what’s the first thing that you do?
Andy McEntire: The first thing I do is introduce myself to the talent and crew. Having a good relationship and being a confidence booster goes a long way. They’ll work harder and interact better.
How do you balance your work with life?
Andy McEntire: There is no way to truly balance your life, it’s almost impossible. For me, scheduling “blank” times on my calendar is the only way I don’t over commit. You have to trust yourself with your time and your commitments. I own several companies, including a coffee company called Concord Coffee. It’s a passion of mine and it’s very important to balance my time out…as much as I can. You have to be realistic with your time and often times it just takes me learning what my threshold is, especially being a husband and dad and being committed to them first.
How important is networking in this industry? How do you go out and find these people?
Andy McEntire: Networking is the biggest and best way to connect to the industry and gain experience. It’s a great way to collaborate and get jobs. The easiest way to connect is through social media and in person on jobs. Put yourself in the positions to meet these people.
What advice would you give to people interested in this industry?
Andy McEntire: Don’t make it about yourself and don’t be entitled. Surround yourself with people who will support your dreams and don’t be afraid to try something new. Don’t be afraid to have the hard conversations and don’t be passive aggressive in this industry.
Where can people follow you on social?
Instagram: @iafilms
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