You're retiring from the film production industry. How will you stay engaged?

Retiring from the film production industry offers the opportunity to stay engaged by mentoring the next generation of filmmakers. Leveraging your wealth of experience and knowledge, you can provide guidance, feedback, and valuable insights to aspiring individuals keen on honing their skills and navigating the industry. Whether mentoring online through platforms like Mentorly or Stage 32, or in person through local film schools or organizations, your mentorship can contribute to the growth and success of emerging talents, fostering a sense of fulfillment and connection to the industry.

Upon retiring from the film production industry, joining a film club can be a rewarding avenue for staying engaged. This offers the opportunity to connect with fellow film enthusiasts, share perspectives, and delve into discussions about various films and genres. Participating in a film club, whether online through platforms like Letterboxd or Film Club, or in person at local libraries, community centers, or cinemas, allows you to continually explore and deepen your understanding of different facets of film production, fostering a continued passion for cinema.

The new generation of filmmakers craves content in a way that prior generations never did. It comes from being born in the wake of the internet, in the age of the 24/7 news cycle, and in a media landscape where no interest or subculture is too obscure. Purely by starting a column/blog, a podcast, or a vlog series, you can create content for and connect with an audience of artists who are frothing at the mouth for new ways to learn about the things they care about. Find a medium that suites your skill set and passion, and go for it.

Launching a blog or podcast is a dynamic method to maintain engagement with the film production industry post-retirement. Through this platform, you can articulate your insights, critiques, and reflections on films, filmmakers, and industry trends. Additionally, it serves as an avenue to showcase your own contributions, be it short films, scripts, or photographs, and provides an opportunity to connect with other film professionals through interviews and event reviews. This initiative not only allows you to share your wealth of experience but also fosters a community of like-minded individuals who share your enduring passion for the world of film.

Volunteering for a film festival or organization is a fantastic way to contribute to the film community and remain connected to the industry during retirement. Your skills and experience can be valuable assets in various roles, including film screening, event coordination, program promotion, and fundraising. Volunteering offers opportunities to network with fellow professionals, stay informed about industry trends, and participate in workshops and film screenings. Platforms like FilmFreeway and Festival Volunteer, as well as local film festivals and organizations, provide avenues to discover and engage in volunteer opportunities.

Learning a new skill or exploring a different film genre is an excellent way to keep your passion for film alive and continuously challenge yourself. Platforms like Skillshare or MasterClass offer online courses, while local courses, workshops, or mentors provide hands-on learning experiences. Whether delving into animation, documentary filmmaking, virtual reality, or any other aspect of the industry, this exploration can bring a fresh perspective and enhance your overall understanding of film production. Applying your newfound skills to personal projects or collaborations can further enrich your retirement journey in the film world.

Collaborating with fellow filmmakers is a fantastic way to remain active and connected within the film production community during retirement. Joining a film collective or participating in challenges, contests, and festivals allows you to work on exciting projects, share creative ideas, and learn from others. Online platforms like FilmUp or Shooting People provide opportunities to find collaborators, while local events, meetups, or referrals offer in-person networking possibilities. This collaborative spirit can bring joy, fulfillment, and a continued sense of camaraderie to your involvement in the film production industry.

When we don’t teach what we learn or have learned, it defeats a WHOLE LOT of being humane/humane. So, teach what you have learned. Share your experiences to empower and encourage others. Volunteer and mentor to give back.