We 41 out of 111 storyboards sketched and 7 out of 54 sets/locations designed.

Why do some people in this type of endeavor insist on regurgitating the completely obvious to everyone around them as if they own the secret to some special recipe?

It’s far too common when I meet people interested in Film Making that a laundry list of everything they think a project like, “The X and Y,” film should be doing gets whipped out and given as free advice.  Often the list appears before the person has a comprehensive understanding of the project or the people involved.

I realize the person delivering the sermon of obvious issues to address and tasks to complete is attempting to create credibility for themselves.  However, it always leaves me thinking, “Does this person think I and everyone else contributing to this project are so stupid as to not know these things or have at least considered them?”

Of course since I know I’m not stupid, the attempt by these Masters of the Obvious to instill instant credibility fails everytime.

Here is my tip for the professional in training.  Have the confidence to shut up and wait until your advice is clearly needed and/or someone asks.  Don’t presume that because you know something… no one else around does and they are just waiting for you to tell them.  If you really know your stuff, it will be self evident and the people around you will seek advice.  Don’t be a shy little clam either… knowing the right time to speak demonstrates the experience that instills credibility.

Passing Vehicle Concept by Jonathan Murphy