Why Perfectionism is a Creative Pitfall: Embracing Changes in Film Production

Making Films is Easier than Ever—But Only Physically

In today’s world, creating videos is more accessible than ever. Even without specialized filmmaking gear, someone with just a smartphone can produce a visually acceptable film.

But this accessibility is only physical. It doesn’t mean films can be quickly whipped up without effort. Many people jump straight to filming, but in reality, shooting is a later stage in production. In commercial films, years may be spent in preparation, followed by a few intense weeks of shooting, and then editing.

This necessity for preparation often translates into painstaking planning, but aiming for absolute readiness can hinder the process instead of helping it.

The Dangers of Perfectionism

The desire to create something “great” can unintentionally stop you from creating anything at all. Setting unreachable standards far beyond your current ability often results in a deadlock.

It’s natural to fear failure or feel hesitant about committing to a less-than-perfect result. Especially when shooting, idealism fuels questions like:

• Is this really the right time to shoot?
• Could better conditions arise later?

Take weather, for example. It’s common for shooting days to lack ideal weather. You might prefer clear skies, or continuity might demand overcast ones. But postponing shoots in pursuit of perfection might mean even worse conditions during your backup days. Waiting endlessly, like Kurosawa reportedly did for perfect skies, isn’t practical—or worth emulating.

How Digital Tools Encourage Decision-Making

Fortunately, we live in a digital era where decisions are easier to make. Think of digital editing: its ability to replicate footage without degradation is invaluable. With source material and editing data saved, creating alternative versions is straightforward.

If a scene isn’t quite right, you can always revisit and reshoot only the necessary parts later. Realizing that changes and replacements are always an option makes decision-making less daunting and more efficient.

For instance:

• When unable to find the perfect landscape, film something adequate and replace it with better footage later.
• Using a green screen setup allows for post-production replacements of backgrounds, offering enormous flexibility.

Flexibility in Casting and Versions

Casting, like locations, often involves compromise. The “perfect” actor for a role might not be available. In such cases, directors sometimes step in themselves, knowing scenes can be reshot later if a more fitting actor becomes available.

Previous cuts or versions of a film aren’t wasted either—they add value as alternate versions, enriching the project creatively.

Just like in theater, where the same script is often performed by different actors, films too could benefit from experimenting with alternate casts.

Films Don’t Always Have to Be “Art”

Critics may argue that creating alternate versions dilutes cinema as an art form. However, I believe not every film needs to be “art.” Films as playful tools of enjoyment bring diversity and accessibility to the medium.

For DIY and indie filmmakers, adopting a mindset of “corrections and alternate versions are the norm” can open creative avenues and ease the pressure of perfection. Each decision becomes easier, and ironically, with this habit, fewer corrections may eventually be needed as experience grows.