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FILMQUILL
MAGAZINE
The FilmQuill Online Magazine is a collection of short essays, reviews and editorials submitted by filmmakers, festival organizers and film enthusiasts associated with the Blackbird Film Festival.
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Be brave. Fall forward.
After the loss of her brother, a filmmaker learns how to turn pain and vulnerability into courage with help from a colorful stranger.

Caroline Macfarlane
5 min read
154 views


FILMS THAT SHAPE US: Best In Show
Through the characters of Gerry and Cookie Fleck, actor and writer Allie Leonard finds inspiration from the 2000 mockumentary, BEST IN SHOW.

Allie Leonard
4 min read
574 views


The Oscars: Disabled
While the 93rd Academy Awards includes some victories, opportunities in film for people with disabilities remain few and far between...

Carl Hansen
4 min read
210 views


MULTIPLE HATS: Embracing Multi-Hyphenate Hollywood
In an industry where so many creatives are becoming multi-hyphenates, it can be intimidating to those who defined themselves with one label.

Brooke Trantor
3 min read
147 views


CALL (CRY) for FILMS (HELP)
In 2020, an unusual amount of film about suicide were submitted to Blackbird... What does say about the effects of COVID19 on filmmakers?

Blackbird Film Festival
4 min read
108 views


Working With Kid Actors: A Field Guide for the Uninitiated
Working with kids may come with challenges but that's no reason to avoid including them and their unique perspectives on the world.

Nicola Rose
4 min read
413 views


Give Spike His Flowers
Before the mainstream embraced his work, Spike Lee was fearlessly making films that gave many a voice in the darkness.

Christopher Ortega
2 min read
125 views


Don't Let a Bad Idea Get in the Way of a Good Time
Unlike other art forms, filmmaking requires a group of people. It’s not a solitary pursuit... Or is it?

Lars Fuchs
11 min read
196 views


ADAPTATION (2002) - Greatest Script?
Adaptation is one of those films that MUST be watched many times to truly appreciate the brilliance of Kaufman's writing.

Sam Avery
5 min read
896 views


5 Things I Wish I Knew When Making My First Short Film
About to make your first short film? Here are some things I learned the hard way and some advice to take with you as you begin this journey!

Chelsea Gonzalez
5 min read
2,174 views
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