Looking at the smaller picture, local film is a scene within the Spokane community.
Rebecca Cook, assistant accountant on the t.v. show, Z Nation, is involved in the film community in town is familiar with the scene.
When she’s not working in the office on set or spending her off-season hours recording an audiobook, she spends her time on film projects.
She considers herself a hub for this knowledge,
Meeting various types of people throughout her career, she uses her connections to help others in need in the field.
When contacted with an interesting project, she could take it on herself or let a fresh face take care of it to let them gain some exposure and experience.
“That’s cool, but let me connect you with another person,” said Cook.
Everyone these days are interested in making short films and getting into film production.
“College students reach out to me,” said Cook. “I give them pointers, sit down and have coffee, or give them a push in the right direction.”
To help get the community involved with local film events, one event – The 50 Hour Slam – was created to expose upcoming filmmakers in the Spokane area. Organized by Juan Mas and four other colleagues eight years ago, the Slam is a film competition and festival where teams come together to
create a six-minute short film within fifty hours.
Not only do they get to learn about how to create a short film within a limited amount of time, but they learn about the business side of production like handling permits, filling consent forms, and filming people.
“It’s a fun little crash course they get in fifty hours,” said Mas.
Spokane filmmakers are paving their way in the city.
“There’s such small town mentality, a kindness and a sense of community here,” said Cook.
Although the local scene hidden to everyday people, those in touch with the community know of one another and help one another out.
“I don’t think the Spokane community ever ends in surprising me in the warm heart that they have and the very sort of quiet talent that they have”, Mas.
For the upcoming generation of content creators, networking and ability to work with others is key.
“You’re somewhat of a gypsy – you go where the work is,” said Mas.