‘Film Riot’ does the impossible

Written by | Austin Ulen |

For those who ever have wondered how to make a crowbar out of foam or maybe how to set a car on fire without going to jail or who simply ever have seen something in a film and said, “I wish I could make something like that,” Ryan Connolly’s YouTube channel, “Film Riot,” makes it absolutely possible. Not only will the “Film Riot” crew show how it can be done, but they’ll show how to do it on a budget. Started in May 2009 as part of the “Revision3” multi-channel network, which it now no longer is a part of, “Film Riot” gives those who might not have a Hollywood budget the tools to create a film that still should be on the big screen.

 

Provided Photo | Visit youtube.com/user/filmriot to view sketches and filming/production highlights.
Provided Photo |
Visit youtube.com/user/filmriot to view sketches and filming/production highlights.

The show is hosted by Connolly himself, and the channel has several different themes for its episodes. Most episodes begin with a sketch that incorporates and highlights a certain aspect of pre-production, filming or postproduction. The sketches usually are comedy-driven and cleverly written. Connolly then gives advice and walks viewers through the process of creating the effects seen in the sketch.Other episodes feature the crew reviewing a piece of equipment used in the process of filmmaking. Reviews have included cameras, lighting, rigging, sound equipment, software, online resources and more.

Connolly also takes questions via Twitter, Facebook and email and answers them on episodes called “Film Riot Mondays.” They are episodes that tackle tough questions ranging from copyright issues to practical effects vs. CGI effects to how to shoot in extreme weather, all things that might not be covered in a standard episode. “Film Riot” could be called a family affair. Connolly, along with brothers Josh and Tim and sister Emily, all contribute to the channel’s success. The siblings banded together not only to create the “Film Riot” YouTube channel but also Triune Films, an independent film production company. The company has released several short films that also can be seen on the “Film Riot” channel under the Triune Films brand. First based in Florida after Connolly graduated from Full Sail University in Orlando, Triune Films and “Film Riot” since has made its home in Austin.

With almost 700 videos in its library, “Film Riot” shows that low budget does not mean low quality. The sketches alone are worth the watch for their pure entertainment value. “Film Riot” has come a long way since 2009 and only continues to grow. It appeals not only to aspiring filmmakers but even to those who just enjoy a good laugh. It provides hours of useful information and entertainment.
No one can argue with Connolly’s passion as a filmmaker. He once said:

“What I always tell people is … Unless you are so passionate about film-making that you would rather live out of your car than not do it, find something else to do as a career and do filmmaking as a hobby. This industry is one of the hardest to break into and be successful. It takes a lot of passion and dedication for it to get anywhere.” The Connolly crew, Triune Films and “Film Riot” definitely are going somewhere.

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