SABRINA DOYLE

After Lorelei was released, I heard from a number of emerging filmmakers seeking advice. The questions I received were mostly practical and career-focused. People wondering who or what would land them their break.

Coming from a working-class background with no prior industry connections, I understand how impenetrable the film world can seem.

My nutshell answer to many of these filmmakers’ questions was to engage in gentle, reciprocal networking.

Still, I felt a huge step was being missed.

I understand the hunger and urgency — I’ve been there! But before getting caught in the whirlwind of production, there’s value in pausing to focus on the creative impulse that drew you to filmmaking in the first place. It all starts with the work. Your dreams and wild visions. And the painstaking craft required to realize these.

So I’ve decided to offer personalized consulting over Zoom to a small number of filmmakers preparing to shoot their short or indie feature.

Directing is won or lost in prep.  It takes so much work to physically mount a film that I invite you —  before starting — to take time to clarify your artistic and directorial vision. So much of your success as a filmmaker will be dictated by the thinking you do now, before budgets, schedules and locations take over.

During our deep dive intensive, we’ll cover the following ground in two online sessions:

Script

Where it all begins. I’ll read your screenplay before our session and work with you to refine characters, themes, tone and structure. We’ll make sure you’ve planted ideas that pay off later — and explore opportunities for breadcrumbs and subtext.

Performances

Actors put their life and breath into your story. I’ll help you craft a successful casting strategy and review your casting choices. We’ll also discuss how to extend emotional invitations to your actors so they can find truth in your imaginary circumstances.

The look

Film is a uniquely visual medium. I’ll work with you to develop a visual language that works in tandem with your story and equip you to communicate effectively with your cinematographer. We’ll discuss what you see versus what you withhold, the power of imperfection and how to create visual contrast.

Resilience and running a happy set

What happens when it all goes wrong? We’ll review your production plan and come up with a plan b, c and d so that your creative vision prevails no matter what. We’ll also talk about setting the tone on set so that everyone feels happy and looked after.

Post-production and beyond

I’ll watch your cut and give you notes on the edit. Together, we’ll figure out how to position your film in the world. What’s the story behind the story? How do you, as a filmmaker, talk about your work?

Interested? Reach out via my contact page to inquire about rates and availability. If you’re the first in your family to attend university, I offer a 50% discount. I look forward to working with you to bring your picture to life!