February 24th is quickly approaching.

Many, though not all film/television professionals  and those who wish to be, will be tuning in to see what and who takes the honors and what the filmmakers have to say about the work.

As much as anything else there is a particular value for the non-professional to know what the big boys/girls at the top their game look like.

You may be a fan of  their or someone else’s work.

If you are a fan of a film or a film maker, know why!

Now, take your knowledge of who you like and why, add to that the knowledge of what they look like and you are set for success.

Think about it,  you can recognize them when they enter the elevator or pass you at the market.

They don’t know you, but that’s okay.

Just ask them if they are who you think they are.

If they say no, no harem no foul.

If they say yes, introduce yourself, and tell them you are a fan .

Thank them for their contribution to  your life.

Let them know what their work meant to you.

Then leave.  Odds are good, if you’ve been honest, they will want to talk with you at least a moment more.

They also like that film, that’s why they made it.

And who doesn’t like to be thanked?

I can’t think of anyone.

But thanks must be genuine.

BS is very recognizable.   If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything. Let them enjoy their privacy.

But if you really do like their work and you know why, and you bump into them in a public place, thank them and Tell Them Why.

We all wish to know if we’ve impacted someone’s life positively.  And it’s great when we find out we have.

So do your homework.  Find out who makes the films you love.  Identify your passion for it/them.   Thank  the film maker  for their contribution.

Don’t think of this as manipulating someone.

You can’t control outcomes of a conversation.

But you can take positive non threatening action to get in front of the filmmakers who’s work you admire.