10 directing tips from Sam Raimi, the director of the most expensive film in cinema history*

Sam Raimi, the director of The Evil Dead and Spider-Man, recently talked to the CBC host of The Hour, George Stroumboulopoulos about his new blockbuster, Spider-Man 3.

For a man who just completed what will be reportedly * the most expensive film ever made (when advertising is factored in), Raimi is also one of the most down to earth, and honest individuals in Hollywood. Clearly, he's dealing with a lot of stress (wouldn't you be?) but, he had several very useful and basic principles of directing that every filmmaker, amateur or professional should consider.

10 things you can learn from Sam Raimi:

1. Know your characters: Know what the character is. Know who they are. Know what they want.

2. Obligatory moments: You have an obligation to your audience to resolve the tensions, set-up and questions you create when telling your story. Failing to do so will alienate them.

3. Be true to your material: You have a responsibility when adapting your material (either comic book or novel) to preserve what is unique about the material, and not change it just because of ego, or for the sake of change itself.

4. Children need role models: When your character is a hero, or role model to children, you have a responsibility to make a responsible individual on screen and make sure that character is worthy of admiration.

5. The essence of a moment is truth: Understanding your actor and your character will help you find the essence of a moment, moments of truth which you should always strive to get.

6. Find something real and you'll find your audience: If you can find those moments of truth your audience will connect with you - not even consciously, but they will be with the character and your film. You will fail more than you succeed at this, but you should keep trying to find those moments of truth because they make everything work. Getting to those moments will be more awkward and hard to get, if you don't have a close bond with your actor.

7. Know your subject matter: The most frightening thing as a director is working with new characters and finding out what they are. Until you completely understand your characters you will be out of your comfort zone. When you you understand them, you will know how to direct them.

8. Keep it simple: Thinking about studio expectations (or your own) will only terrify you, just focus on the characters.

9. Directing is stressful; get used to it: The problems you have on a small set, are just the same as a big one: you will lay awake at night rethinking every moment until complete neurosis. You will never become less insecure (Sam Raimi has made 15 pictures, and he still worries) But, you will become more confident if you know your subject matter and are comfortable with your actors.

10. Look the part: Finally, always wear a suit when you direct. Alfred Hitchcock wore a suit and expected his people to do likewise. Making a film involves being able to command authority. Sam Raimi, being a gentleman (and a fan of Hitchcock) has always viewed wearing a suit and tie on set, as a sign of respect. You should to.


Strombo interview with Sam Raimi (Mac users may have to download a QuickTime codec - instructions on the CBC site)