Giving/Receiving Criticism

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Thank you to Jack for posting this information last fest. It is very useful and I feel everyone can benefit from reading through it.

The JDS Disclaimer:


EDIT: Originally posted for LOVE FEST 02/08.

First off, this is more Jack the 9 fest vet talking to you rather than Jack the Mod.
So unlike some stickies, these are not rules so much as suggestions.

Suggestions vs. rules because we're all for freedom of expression. BUT, we also want people to have a good time and to encourage filmmakers.

So while you're still free to say "Your movie sucks" © Jeremy Hyler :grin:

... we can probably do a bit better. Remember this is a filmmaking community. :beer:

This guide has not come about due to a widespread problem with giving and receiving criticism,
but more to enhance the experience for filmmakers and fest participants of varying experience levels
(read: so you can learn from my mistakes) :)

[ConspiracyPenguin]

GIVING CRITICISM (COURTESY: JACK DANIEL STANLEY)

Your criticism is important. Saying what you don’t like about a movie or pointing out what could have been better is essential in the growth of the filmmaker.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GIVING CRITICISM AND DOING SOMETHING ELSE:
There’s no such thing as overly critical. But there is such a thing as rude.

If your criticism is peppered with “worst film ever” “the dumbest” “the most retarded” “absolutely atrocious” “completely horrible” “what the hell were you thinking dumbass?” Then you are probably coming from a less than constructive place, and not showing the proper respect for a real filmmaker, i.e. anyone that gets up of their Dunder and Miffilin and actually goes out and makes a film – we all know what an achievement that is and it warrants respect, lots of it.

Lots of hyperbole and negative adjectives, particularly absolutes like worst, and dumbest ever, are probably neither accurate nor necessary.

BE SPECIFIC
So you thought it sucked. Why? Saying you thought it sucked in no way helps the filmmaker or promotes an interesting discussion. If you just say it sucked how will they know what to fix next time? Try and offer information as to where, what and why: what specific elements at what moments, and why did they not work.

GOOD WITH THE BAD
There was nothing good about this movie. Really? Nothing? AT ALL? You can’t find one single thing the filmmaker did well or competently? Nothing. Wow you’re a very tough date.

If you have some hard knocks for the filmmaker why not mention at least ONE thing that was good. Not asking you to lie. But surely there is something if not subjectively (to your taste) then objectively that was good. Like great sound. Technical excellence. A nice dolly shot. That one incredible actor. The way one scene was blocked. … this isn’t about bullshi*. It’s about the fact that almost every film does something right and the filmmaker needs to hear that also.

JUST PRAISE
So you loved it. Great. If you all you have time for is “I loved it” then say that. Ideally it’s good to be specific with your praise just like your criticism. Telling them why you loved it will help them be a better filmmaker. BUT … don’t you dare not post because you don’t have time to write a bunch of stuff. While we encourage specificity and detail which will help the filmmaker make a better next film, still stop by and say you loved it if you did. That will help them to actually attempt the next film at all.

But again ideally try to be specific with your praise: what worked and why.

CONVINCING & DEBATING
Please. Do not get into convincing someone that they are wrong and you are right. If you have left your criticism and they are not responsive to it, move on. It's their thread and they don't have to agree with you. If you adhere to only one of these suggestions please make it this one. Don't go over and over things if it seems unwelcomed or if the filmmaker is unresponsive. State your criticism and move on. Be attentive to how receptive or not the filmmaker is to in depth discussion. If they are into it and it's a good discussion, great, if not, move on.

FINALLY
Try to be specific and helpful. Give a positive note when you can. Pretend you are in a room full of people with the filmmaker sitting on a stage. If you wouldn’t say it in that context don’t say it here.

[ConspiracyPenguin]

RECEIVING CRITICISM: (COURTESY: JACK DANIEL STANLEY)

Easy right? You just sit back and agree with the people who think you are a genius and tell the other folks they’re too dumb to understand your vision. Not quite. Take it from me ...

I’ve had fests that were the best experiences of my life and some much less so. The biggest factor was how I handled criticism and interacted with the posters.

You will have a better time, learn more, and look like a really cool balanced dude (or chick) even if you’re not, if you can follow some of this battle earned advice.


YOU DON’T HAVE TO RESPOND TO EVERY POST
As a much wiser Mod once told me (*cough* *cough* Isaac Brody) you don’t have to respond to every post. Some more combative posts may be better left ignored. For the posts which require a response and the ones you just feel a need to respond to … read on …

DEFENDING YOUR BABY/ GETTING INTO A FIGHT
In the book “The Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide” (http://rover.ebay.com/ar/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?mpt=1724586501&adtype=1&size=1x1&type=3&campid=5336062087&toolid=10001 http://rover.ebay.com/ar/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?mpt=808054343&adtype=1&size=1x1&type=3&campid=5336062087&toolid=10001 http://rover.ebay.com/ar/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?mpt=1442932502&adtype=1&size=1x1&type=3&campid=5336062087&toolid=10001 http://rover.ebay.com/ar/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?mpt=1881730243&adtype=1&size=1x1&type=3&campid=5336062087&toolid=10001 link (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FUltimate-Film-Festival-Survival-Guide%2Fdp%2F1580650570&tag=5336062087-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)) the advice given to filmmakers at a festival talk back is to basically be funny and answer questions. DO NOT … do not get into defending your movie. If you defend your movie, you will only look … well … defensive … makes sense right? This doesn’t mean you hold your movie out at the end of your arm like a stinky diaper. You can stand by the choices you made. You can love your movie. You can think it’s perfect without ever defending it.

If you get a commenter that makes a general criticism about how stupid your ideas are, thank them for their feedback and move on. In fact the harsher and more inappropriate the criticism the more polite you should be.

AUDIENCE: “I’ve seen all of your movies and they all suck. You couldn’t write your way out of a paper bag. I wish I had the 1 minute of my life back I spent watching your movie. I had to stop it then before I barfed on my computer. Pathetic.”

FILMMAKER: “Wow. Thanks for taking the time to at least try to watch my film, lol, and for sharing your passionate comments. Sorry it wasn’t your cup of tea.”

ATTEMPTING TO INVALIDATE THEIR EXPERIENCE vs. HAVING A DISCUSSION.
So I said DO NOT defend. What I mean by this is don’t try to convince the poster that they are wrong. Even if their criticism is based on something you felt was out of your control or was the best you could do under the circumstances.

When the audience watches the film they don’t know and don’t care that the only take where the actor really cried was the one where an extra tripped and fell down in the background, so you had to decide if it was too distracting to see the mailman fall in the background or see the real emotion of the woman reading the letter he just delivered. They also don’t know that you only had one hour to shoot the scene and your monitor with enough resolution to see if she was crying or not broke that morning.

Sharing these behind the scenes limitations and compromises can be fine. But be careful. They can merge over into trying to convince someone that their experience isn’t valid because they don’t know what your choices were or what you had to go through to get the shot you had to use.

If this kind of discussion will be helpful then share it. But acknowledge the criticism as valid first especially if you agree with it. “I can see how you could say that. Unfortunately the only takes we had …” (don’t necessarily agree) or “D’oh. Yeah I hate that too. Unfortunately the only choices we had were …” (agree and it’s been bugging you too).

If you get the sense that the criticism is coming from someone that’s just trying to take the wind out of your sails, then ignore them or thank them and move on.

CONVINCING & DEBATING
If someone won't let up about something to the point it's annoying, i.e., posting over and over and or giving you unasked for lessons, try to ignore it. If you can't do that contact a Mod. Try not to take the bait.

FINALLY
Remember their experience is valid. You don’t have to respond to every post. Avoid an argument over why they are wrong or don’t understand. Explain or make excuses only if it seems like the discussion will be of benefit. The nastier or more personal they are, the more polite and grateful for their feedback you are.

[ConspiracyPenguin]

On a personal note: I plan on being very blunt and honest this fest. Reading through my comments from TimeFest I realize I candy coated the truth quite a bit (which I am sure was apparent to many of you) in an attempt at maintaining the kind, witty, flightless bird reputation I have developed. But I have decided that it is actually disrespectful to NOT be honest. So, instead of posting fluff and keeping my pro/con ratio in check I plan on giving the honest truth with constructive criticism where I can. I will try not to be rude about it, but I won't be overly nice either. I think that by following this guide, I will be able to provide a win-win for everyone.

We will see how I feel come comment time. :)

[gabrielflorit]

Excellent. DVXUser fests are very unique: most of our audience is us, which means we should get useful critiques like "your audio sucked", "lighting was totally off, did you white balance?" "what the heck were you thinking with that cut, bad editing there". I want my film to be totally ripped apart. I hope no one says things like "nice! loved it." You know my short could have been better. Tell me why. I want to learn.

[Simon Höfer]

If anybody says something bad about my film, I will kill you all!!! Everyone of you!! No exceptions!!

[Zim]

Simon your film is awesome. Film of the year. 4 stars and thumbs up!! I haven't even seen it and I already like it. Are we good?

[Richard J. Johnson]

Saying "sucks" kind of defeats the purpose of not being rude IMO. There a 100 other ways to say suck. That word needs to go the way of "Awesome". I want my film to ripped apart as well. And I know it will be.

[Simon Höfer]

Simon your film is awesome. Film of the year. 4 stars and thumbs up!! I haven't even seen it and I already like it. Are we good?
:Drogar-Mark-07(DBG)


If anybody says something bad about my film, I will kill you all!!! Everyone of you!! No exceptions!!

:D

All jokes aside. This is some great advice and jack truly does speak from experience!

[Zim]

Your honest truth? Maybe it will be just your opinion. I've seen films I don't really like that others love. You can give good comments here without be rude. Already you plan on doing that,,,,bad way to start out.
What is the name of your film? I'm sure people will want to comment on it after you are "blunt" with theirs. LOL




On a personal note: I plan on being very blunt and honest this fest. Reading through my comments from TimeFest I realize I candy coated the truth quite a bit (which I am sure was apparent to many of you) in an attempt at maintaining the kind, witty, flightless bird reputation I have developed. But I have decided that it is actually disrespectful to NOT be honest. So, instead of posting fluff and keeping my pro/con ratio in check I plan on giving the honest truth with constructive criticism where I can. I will try not to be rude about it, but I won't be overly nice either. I think that by following this guide, I will be able to provide a win-win for everyone.

We will see how I feel come comment time. :)

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Your honest truth? Maybe it will be just your opinion. I've seen films I don't really like that others love. You can give good comments here without be rude. Already you plan on doing that,,,,bad way to start out.
What is the name of your film? I'm sure people will want to comment on it after you are "blunt" with theirs. LOL

:grin: That's the thing. I am here for friends, not enemies, but I think people would benefit from my TRUE thoughts rather than some fluffy, well-packaged ones, you know? I don't plan on saying "Wow, that was the worst fucking piece I've seen so far. Sell your camera you worthless shit face!" :D More like, "Here is what I thought could have been better and why and I am not going to confuse you by prefacing my criticism with a contradictory compliment." :)

And I didn't make a film this time, so neener, neener, neener! :2vrolijk_08:

NOTE: After re-reading my original comment, I realize that could have been easily misunderstood. I will be relying heavily on this guide. I am NOT going to be rude, I am going to be NICE. But I will try to also be helpful. Films are subjective in that, like you said, some people will like them and some people will not. So, instead of saying what I feel like it is a fact, I will be clear that it is just MY OPINION. I think that's all any of us can really do.

[Susanne G.]

On a personal note: I plan on being very blunt and honest this fest. Reading through my comments from TimeFest I realize I candy coated the truth quite a bit (which I am sure was apparent to many of you) in an attempt at maintaining the kind, witty, flightless bird reputation I have developed. But I have decided that it is actually disrespectful to NOT be honest. So, instead of posting fluff and keeping my pro/con ratio in check I plan on giving the honest truth with constructive criticism where I can. I will try not to be rude about it, but I won't be overly nice either. I think that by following this guide, I will be able to provide a win-win for everyone.

We will see how I feel come comment time. :)

Still more honest???? You prefered the green rain boots instead of the red shoes in our film last fest. :D

[dougspice]

This is all excellent advice, and relates directly to another thread I posted here earlier...

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=142655

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Still more honest???? You prefered the green rain boots instead of the red shoes in our film last fest. :D

:grin: Hehehehe...

Doug, I do remember that thread. Good stuff in there.

[Tom Marshall]

Saying "sucks" kind of defeats the purpose of not being rude IMO. There a 100 other ways to say suck.

For example...

Your film blows.
Your film licks donkey ****.
Your film is crap.
Your film is a waste.
Your film is garbage.
Your film is a piece of shi*.
Your film isn't worth the tape it was recorded on to.

You get the point. http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/images/icons/icon12.gif

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Your film isn't worth the tape it was recorded on to.

:huh: Uhh...Tom? What the poo poo's tape?


:grin:

[Tom Marshall]

Oh, another one I almost forgot:

Your films isn't worth a Penguin's turd.

:D

[ConspiracyPenguin]

How about "Your actor reminded me of Tom Marshall because he JUST WOULDN'T ACT!" ?

[Tom Marshall]

Yeah, I don't like that one... :cheesy:

[ZazaCast]

This thread is beginning to suck. :)

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Can you please follow the guide, ZaZa:



THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GIVING CRITICISM AND DOING SOMETHING ELSE:
There’s no such thing as overly critical. But there is such a thing as rude.

If your criticism is peppered with “worst film ever” “the dumbest” “the most retarded” “absolutely atrocious” “completely horrible” “what the hell were you thinking dumbass?” Then you are probably coming from a less than constructive place, and not showing the proper respect for a real filmmaker, i.e. anyone that gets up of their Dunder and Miffilin and actually goes out and makes a film – we all know what an achievement that is and it warrants respect, lots of it.

Lots of hyperbole and negative adjectives, particularly absolutes like worst, and dumbest ever, are probably neither accurate nor necessary.


:grin:

[ZazaCast]

Can you please follow the guide, ZaZa:



:grin:

Oh yes...you're correct...my bad....I'll be sure to follow your guide;

"Then you are probably coming from a less than constructive place, and not showing the proper respect for a real filmmaker, i.e. anyone that gets up off their Dunder and Miffilin and actually goes out and makes a film – we all know what an achievement that is and it warrants respect, lots of it."

...now, where can I find the thread for YOUR film? :grin:



:):):):)
...and I'm still waiting for that TransAm footage!

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Very funny. I will submit a film eventually.

Fired her up an hour or so ago and made sure she has enough tranny fluid. There is a hose that has come loose so once I mend that up we'll be on the road. I'll see about taking a camera with me. :)

[ZazaCast]

Very funny. I will submit a film eventually.

Fired her up an hour or so ago and made sure she has enough tranny fluid. There is a hose that has come loose so once I mend that up we'll be on the road. I'll see about taking a camera with me. :)

...you know I just kid...:)

Tell you what, I see there's going to be an 'Ad Fest'... why don't you PM me and lets talk about shooting something for that...for you! :beer:

[Dustin R. Rogan]

This thread is beginning to suck. :)

No, now this thread officially sucks...because my name is in it for all eternity...or someone accidently flips the switch at DVXuser HQ and it wipes out the entire board and all thats left is a pic of Tom Marshall and Nick Lane eating deep fried twinkies and playing checkers...

*wow that was random...i'm a bit sleep deprived today...you'll have to excuse me and my nonsense...and my "...'s", because apparently I type what goes through my brain and ends up going through my fingers onto the keyboard...or something...sleep in 6 hours...yeah for 14 hour work days in the television biz...stupid high school football...


Rogan

[Robbie Comeau]

Why wouldn't you just post the link? Honestly, just wondering.

Robbie

[alex whitmer]

Tom Marshall and Nick Lane eating deep fried twinkies and playing checkers


I think we have our first Ad Fest Entry! Dr. Rogan's self-help video for actors.

Fry a Twinkie, get into character, then work out any left-over angst with a friendly game of checkers.




a

[Gord.T]

I've never been good at that. Depends on my mood and how people have responded so far. If I see too much of an opinion bending either way, I'll blow a gasket and challenge everyone. Most always here at dvx, that's never been a problem. In fact, can't think of one case I've really had to do that.

Which is a testament to everyones knowledge and honesty around here.

[ConspiracyPenguin]

Maybe I will do something for the mini ad fest. I am considering the doc fest, though, too.

Robbie, nice new avatar.

Rogan, how did you hear about that Twinkie/checkers incident? :huh: Tom! I thought we agreed not to tell anyone!

[Rodney V. Smith]

What I'd really like to see is a thread to book a Kholi review...

[Simon Höfer]

What I'd really like to see is a thread to book a Kholi review...
Yeah, that would be cool =)

[Richard J. Johnson]

My film can not be criticized and Here is why:

1. Every line was individually color corrected by a japanese color correction mainframe
2. framing was geometrically measured and calculated by Stephen Hawkins
3. Focus was measured to pinpoint accuracy by focal length androids from germany
4. All of my actors are direct descendants of George Clooney
5. Lighting was done James Cameron's first cousin on his father's side
6. Camera movements were done by Mitsubishi Auto building robots.
7. I used a RED scarlepic200A170 to shoot

[BigChrisfilm]

Awesome, I hope you all like the film, but tear it apart...respectfully of course.

[Jason Miller]

My film can not be criticized and Here is why:

1. Every line was individually color corrected by a japanese color correction mainframe
2. framing was geometrically measured and calculated by Stephen Hawkins
3. Focus was measured to pinpoint accuracy by focal length androids from germany
4. All of my actors are direct descendants of George Clooney
5. Lighting was done James Cameron's first cousin on his father's side
6. Camera movements were done by Mitsubishi Auto building robots.
7. I used a RED scarlepic200A170 to shoot

George Clooney? well theres a reason to criticize right there, I thought there was a law forbidding bad actors to bread?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

George Clooney? well theres a reason to criticize right there, I thought there was a law forbidding bad actors to bread?
You're right, they are not allowed bread. Even the good actors. I don't allow it on set, too many yeast allergies.

Or maybe you meant breed. :huh:

:evil:

Just teasing, btw.

:)

[Jason Miller]

crazy English Language if it wasn't my first, I'd be confused

[Richard J. Johnson]

crazy English Language if it wasn't my first, I'd be confused

:)

[Shawn Philip Nelson]

The level of criticism received vs blatant ass-kissing will be directly proportional to DVXUser popularity. :-).

[AJ Brooks]

The level of criticism received vs blatant ass-kissing will be directly proportional to DVXUser popularity. :-).

Yes, I remember that formula from calculus. Theta and Pi figure in there somewhere.

[USLatin]

What kind of stupid thread is this? I mean seriously?!?! this is just dumb... I mean D-U-M-B... I bet your movies SUCK!

Give it up, man... just give up.

:violent5:







(just kiddin')
:thumbsup:

[Shawn Philip Nelson]

Yes, I remember that formula from calculus. Theta and Pi figure in there somewhere.

If you tip the wrong end of that, people will mostly notice the flies and eyelashes in your flick!


hehehe, eh...

[AJ Brooks]

lol, yes. I hope you had only actors with standard eyelashes in your film this time.

It's amazing to see what stands out to people/audiences.

[Shawn Philip Nelson]

lol, yes. I hope you had only actors with standard eyelashes in your film this time.

It's amazing to see what stands out to people/audiences.

Eh, this is anything but a real 'audience', we're all filmmakers. :-)

[AJ Brooks]

Eh, this is anything but a real 'audience', we're all filmmakers. :-)


Ah yes, very true.

That being said, I highly value the opinions I get from dvxusers for that very reason.

Can we watch these films already? :)

[Richard J. Johnson]

I have so much to learn. Foresight being only my second narrative.

[darkrequiem1134]

.............wow...............

[mark_Cray]

I would encourage everyone to stop by "Possible Charlie" and leave constructive criticism. you would be helping a newer film maker out immensily with your input (it's his first fest submission). I realize I'm a just a member of talent for the film but as someone who's seen a number of sets in the indy realm I can honestly say that his was one of the most organized, personable, and talented directors I've worked with and would wish for him to benefit from the wealth of knowledge that seems apparant as I've looked over the boards in the last few weeks. Thanks everyone.

[alex whitmer]

Got half way through Possible Charlie and it locked up. I'll try it again.


Is it just me or is there an over-abundance of one to five word reviews this time around?

'Hey, dig the ending.'

Kick me for bringing this up if you want, but that's not a review. The idea here is to give feedback the filmmaker and all those involved in the project can apply as they grow - be it the acting, the lighting, the story and writing, the sound, the framing, the continuity, the scoring, theme, etc.

Sorry, but 'Cool' and 'Hmmmmm' doesn't cut it. Not singling anyone out here, just culled from reading many comments over many threads of some great, great films. Some comments are well thought out, while others brief but to the point and valuable. Others? Well ...

Being in the film business, either as a profession or a pursuit, one should also strive to develop a critical eye. Analysis of other people's films, and all the subordinate tasks and talents that go into a finished 'product' can only help one see their own work more critically, and the attention to detail will increase accordingly.


Just my two centavos. Take the time to comment as it is for your own benefit as well. You'll be glad you did!

aw

[pauly_the_hitman]

Well I say talk bad about my movie and I will send Tom Marshall over to help you out if you know what I mean...
Pauly

J/K please let me know what you liked and didn't like...

[alex whitmer]

Tom Marshal can't even bowl!

I'll stop by and comment your entry asap. Still trying to get my hamster-driven computer to download all the films.

a

[Tom Marshall]

lol :D

[sean90291]

Many people do NOT want to hear negative criticism. You can be labeled "mean" if you criticize. Or people seek various forms of online "revenge." I'm not sure it's worth it. I try to be honest about what I like and what I don't like. I'm a tough critic, of my own work and the work of others. But immensely supportive of individual artists' talent and efforts. Ultimately, only a handful of people really have "it" though and I'm not sure what the point is in coddling artists when paying audiences are going to be the harshest critics of all. I do believe that it's anyone's guess who has "it" and who doesn't--there's no blood test, that's for sure. It's up to each of us to prove the doubters wrong. In the meantime...

Giving some filmmaker I've never met some criticism of their film online is probably not worth it, because you can't predict who can stomach it and who will be devastated. I'm always terrified about whether people like my work. Always. And it feels awful when it doesn't connect with someone. But it's just one person's opinion, and growing and succeeding as an artist does ultimately mean we have to suffer the slings and arrows of critics. But I think from here on out, I will only comment on the few films I like. And there are few.

[hoz]

Many people do NOT want to hear negative criticism. You can be labeled "mean" if you criticize. Or people seek various forms of online "revenge." I'm not sure it's worth it. I try to be honest about what I like and what I don't like. I'm a tough critic, of my own work and the work of others. But immensely supportive of individual artists' talent and efforts. Ultimately, only a handful of people really have "it." And I guess it's anyone's guess who those people all--there's no blood test, that's for sure. But giving some filmmaker I've never met some criticism of their film online is probably not worth it, when folks can't stomach it. I'm always terrified about whether people like my work. Always. And it feels awful when it doesn't connect with someone. But it's just one person's opinion, and growing and succeeding as an artist does ultimately mean we have to suffer the slings and arrows of critics. But maybe from here on out, I will only comment on the few films I like.


it does take effort to speak and it does require some amount of bravery, and for this i thank everyone and anyone who will comment on my films. i cannot learn from nothing, from silence. to me this is worst form of criticism. it is as if the work is so beneath the audience that it does not even merit a word, or even the acknowledgment that it ever existed. there is no art if there is no audience.

anyway, i am sorry for any past backlash anyone has given you, i, for one, will gratefully accept whatever you might say of my films, good, bad, ugly, as long as it is your truth. and i will most kindly thank you for your time, your effort, and your bravery. without you and your opinions of what i put forth, there is no chance to grow, no chance to learn, and one less reason to participate here, no? this forum is only as strong as its shared opinions.

[alex whitmer]

Agree with some of what you say, Sean, but my philosophy is this ...

Each filmmaker in TwilightFest made and posted a film knowing full well it would be in a public forum with varying degrees of expertise in several areas of film watching it.

Some comments focus on the technical, while others on overall artistry, and then everything in between. Comments on what worked, and why, and what didn't work, and why are what makes each of us grow, from behind the camera tasks, to in front of the camera performances. There is no other way to grow. period.

Two things.

If the recieving filmmaker doesn't like the comments and dismisses them as the rantings of a lunatic, they rob themselves of heartfelt feedback.

And ...

If a viewer only comments on films they like and dismisses the rest as unworthy, they rob the filmmakers of a particular point of view that may be just the comment they needed to put it all together, the one that shed light on what they were struggling with, and - the viewer robs themselves of a chance to participate fully.

There are 69 (?) films in the fest. Subtract a few for those who did double entries and lets round it off to 63, give or take. In my humble and correct opinion, that means every film should have at least - at least - 63 comments.

To reviece fully, one must give fully.

There are a few filmmakers here in DVX I really don't care for much (names withheld). Chemistry thing I guess. But I have every intention of reviewing their entry objectively. If that garners a 'revenge' review, so be it. If there were 63 reviews, it just might stand out as oddly unique - for better of for worse.

I wont use the term 'get a thicker skin' because I think it is one of the most insulting things one can say, and roughly translates to - I'm a piece of shi* and will say whatever I want and if you don't like it's your own damn fault. Puke.

What I will say, however, is that putting your work up for public scrutiny - and knowing full well it's likely to take some hits - requires a certain maturity. Having been a member on numerous boards over the years, I'd say DVX is way above average when it come to maturity amongst its ranks.

As comments flow in (hopefully) a filmmaker has every right to explain what was not understood, or even defend certain choices. But if it comes to revenge reviews (I had a great one in ScriptFest) then maybe the filmmaker should be doing something more inocuous, like sorting cheese in a deli.

This is art. Prepare for the best and the worst, and leave the boxing gloves at home.

Most important, comment. We all win.

a

[ConspiracyPenguin]

My original plan was to watch the films and do a semi-extensive review for each one. I started this but I am so busy I don't know if I will be able to finish. I will watch them, and I will try to comment, but at this juncture I can make no guarantees about the latter.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

My original plan was to watch the films and do a semi-extensive review for each one. I started this but I am so busy I don't know if I will be able to finish. I will watch them, and I will try to comment, but at this juncture I can make no guarantees about the latter.You still have 8 days or so before the next round.

Just stop posting here and go watch them!
Remember, I can see you. :evil:

[RobinFrank]

"That's right the women are smarter". Thanks Alex Whitmer for summing up the humm of commentary. Our reactions to each other and ourselves is the most important process in filmmaking and our own lives. (Muhhaha - I made a deep and theoretical comment in that comment.)

Blah! We can find the heart of what everyone is saying by asking them more questions while we listen to their response.

It is a lot more than just a festival and one short film, it all carries onto how everyone will move forward.

[ConspiracyPenguin]

You still have 8 days or so before the next round.

Just stop posting here and go watch them!
Remember, I can see you. :evil:

*cough* You live in Russia? What? *cough*

:D I am so busy, I haven't even been posting as much. I am also not doing all the work I should be. :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

*cough* You live in Russia? What? *cough*

:D I am so busy, I haven't even been posting as much. I am also not doing all the work I should be. :)?

Just get off AIM with Robbie and watch some movies. :D

[ConspiracyPenguin]

That's MSN to you. I am not busy with that, I am busy with election crap, school work and other people. :) I will watch them, don't worry. Maybe I should offer 10 penguin reviews to the first people to ask for one. :)

[Mile Bozicevic]

Giving some filmmaker I've never met some criticism of their film online is probably not worth it, because you can't predict who can stomach it and who will be devastated.

Ok, I disagree for you not commenting some films you want just because (in short) of that quote.

All you said is true, and for one I would like that someone says-''Hey those two shots cannot go one after the other. Hey that lighting is crappy, why you didn't use XXXX. Hey, the story is ok but I think it would be better to...'' - etc.

If someone doesn't want to take critics, then it's his/her problem. I am NOT happy with my work, I know I can do a lot better, but I can't see a lot of things someone other will. And by pointing to that things, I will learn what to avoid in future, what to do better and so on...

One editor (he's teaching montage in Film Academy in Croatia for about 40 years now) said that he still doesn't know what is montage, and he takes every critic very seriouosly, even if it's coming from some student, cause that's just what it is-a point of view.

[Dick Campbell]

One good reason to enter this fest is that you will get criticism and good comments and bad comments. And you will get them from a wide variety of people who know something about this business. You intentionally open yourself up and need to be prepared to take the shots. If you aren't, and you are devastated, that's life.

That's one big reason I entered. Otherwise, I learn nothing.

[Jane Doe]

Since I'm new to this group, please excuse me if my comment has been addressed elsewhere on this forum. I've been reading many of the posts, but alas, haven't had the chance to read them all.

My question/comment has to do with the talent in the film. I realize it is a contest for filmmakers, but aren't the actors and their performances a large part of the projects? I only ask because I haven't seen much criticism of the players, constructive or otherwise.

Maybe I just need to keep reading..

[Tom Marshall]

Jane, absolutely! Critiquing the performances is always more than welcome. Since this is mainly a technical forum, the acting sometimes tends to be overlooked at times.

[Dick Campbell]

My question/comment has to do with the talent in the film. I realize it is a contest for filmmakers, but aren't the actors and their performances a large part of the projects? I only ask because I haven't seen much criticism of the players, constructive or otherwise.

Maybe I just need to keep reading..hah! you haven't read some of my reviews then:)

[Jane Doe]

hah! you haven't read some of my reviews then:)

I'll watch out for your reviews. I'm in one of the films, but I'm not telling which one... Since I'm also relatively new to acting, I'm surprised that nobody has torn my performance to shreds yet :happy:.

I do like the way most everyone seems to give genuinely constructive criticism.