The Prince George's Renaissance Should Be Televised

The internet has become a primary tool for filmmakers, as there are several websites set up to promote us and our projects. With these advantages, what would happen if all Prince George's County filmmakers decided to document this area? Would that draw more attention to the county and bring in more work for us?

A renaissance has begun here, and as filmmakers, it is our job to document this era. My fellow independent filmmakers often complain about the lack of representation on mainstream television. That's a void we can easily fill ourselves, especially when the Web makes it easier to create your own stream of media. In the end, your name will be a part of history.

My peers say that mainstream media only focuses on the negative. While I understand their concerns, this is not necessarily true. They document what's real -- no matter how it's shot, edited or manipulated. As a filmmaker, however, no one can control your creativity but you. I don't know what inspires other filmmakers, but I am inspired through people, and intimate surroundings. This county is rich with culture and creativity, but it's up to you to seize the early stages of the “renaissance” and film something great.

Sure, the nation's capital is an attraction for visiting filmmakers, but county natives need to take advantage of home territory. There are organizations put here to specifically help us make films. The DC Film Alliance is one of the main organizations catering to filmmakers and film organizations. So why don’t I see a film being made on every block?

I was once told to move to Los Angeles if I wanted to make it as a filmmaker. Washington, D.C. and its surrounding areas are beautiful and great to document. It’s always great to see the city's main attractions -- the Monument and the Capitol -- in mainstream films. I would like to see more of Prince George's County in mainstream and independent films. There are stories on every street, concepts on every block  and filmmakers scattered throughout the area. Filmmakers, take advantage of documenting this area.