And I was looking at some other actor friends, and wondering how some dude who I met in a coffee house in Leicester Square in 2003 now has 33 friends in common with me. Having been in a bunch of my films, and in getting to know each others friends, it's amazing how it all comes together.
It's like anything else, I realize, we can all trace these steps in our own lives. But regardless, this makes me feel quite proud. Whether people think my films are good, or crap-- people have come together, friendships made, relationships formed. It validates what I do far more than awards do. But then, maybe that's because I never win any awards.
It's a similar thing with this blog. I got the most wonderful email from a follower the other day, saying how this is his favorite film blog, how it puts a smile on his face. It's funny how we have a tendency to thinking we've 'made it' when a big exec signs a cheque, or when the academy nominates us--- but there's something to be said for having a young reader saying I've inspired them, or making some fat drunk guy laugh at a screening of my film, even if no-one else laughs.
I think it's always worth looking around and recognizing your achievements and milestones. Often, in the midst of people saying negative things about my work, I forget all the people who've praised it.
This has been a bit of a rambly post. I meant to write a blog about the genius of Clint Eastwood, but am way too tired so it'll have to wait a day or two.
I quite enjoyed this post. As someone that was exposed to your blog by way of one of your fiction posts, I find myself enjoying it in unexpected ways...
ReplyDeleteThanks, that's nice of you to say. I'd love to know what it is you like about it. Especially as, of course, this is a blog post about my ego!
ReplyDeleteI think that relationships are the cornerstone for living a happy life. You could win 5 Oscars but if you don't have people to share it with then your life could still turn out to be an unrewarding one.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy this blog and it's great to hear how touched you were by a reader's e-mail, it's always a terrific thing to read.
I love reading your blog so much, even though our creative outlets are different your words are so inspiring to me, and give me more confidence in what I do. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteIn the film biz, isn't it always about relationships. It's good to keep in touch (facebook) and connect with people you've worked with over the years.
ReplyDeleteYour blog has become a necessity to me, a craving. Like a kid who wants his candies, now. Your words are resonating in the emptiness of loneliness sometimes, or jumping with me on the rollercoaster of my emotions. Either way they are always brave enough to keep me company, to pat me on one shoulder, to make me smile or laugh (and therefore spit some coffee on the freshly washed table cloth in the morning), to gather my tears in a tiny box and give it back to me with a label reading: remind yourself this is the essence of your soul. Thank you for taking care of me and all the other readers.
ReplyDeleteI know little to nothing about filmmaking, directing, etc...But I've always loved your blog. Though I like it all, I've a soft spot for your fictional posts.
ReplyDeleteHaving someone compliment me on my writing leaves me feeling good for quite a while. And I'm not even making it my livelihood, like you. Enjoy the praise, it's deserved.
Looking forward to your Eastwood post.
Wow, thank you, all of you. I had no idea this post would resonate with people, and you are all saying lovely things about me. What triggered it, I'm not sure, but thank you all!!
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