Marshall and the Movies

“The Origins Project” continues today with some insights from the Mad Hatter, the author of the award-winning “The Dark of the Matinee.” He finished second for Best Blog at the LAMMYs and won for Best Podcast, Best Awards Coverage, and Best something else. He’s one of the smartest writers out there, something that shows in his answers below.

What movie began your love affair with cinema?

THE TERMINATOR was the first movie I can remember watching over and over. It scared me and thrilled me all at the same time. Of course, our copy was taped off TV so I didn’t know just HOW violent it was until way later…ditto the sex scene.

When did you start blogging?

August 2007.

Why did you start blogging?

I’d already been writing a personal blog for three years by that point, but wanted to see if I could reach a bigger audience. My passion for film seemed like a natural platform. Plus when it came to talking about the movies I saw, I got tired of repeating my opinions over and over.

What has kept you going?

In short, stubbornness. Seeing the site grow into something I’m very proud of, meeting so many great people through it, and getting the opportunity this year to cover a pair of festivals as actual media.

Has there been a particular person (or people) that has helped you along the way?

Three above all others. Shannon the Movie Moxie who introduced me to a lot of other movie bloggers locally. Fletch who has been very encouraging where all things LAMB are concerned. And of course, my wife, for supporting this crazy project.

What’s the best part of being a blogger? The worst?

The two best things are being able to meet other great people, and to spread the word of great lesser-known film. The worst is the delicate balancing act of deciding whether you’re watching to blog, or blogging because you watch.

Has blogging increased or diminished your passion for movies?

Increased it immensely. My tastes have broadened and now there are always dozens of titles on the must-list at any given moment.

What’s your proudest moment as a blogger?

Talking to directors at Hot Docs and having them be so encouraging of what I am doing.

What advice would you give to someone looking to follow their passion? To someone starting a blog of their own?

Following your passion can define you. You can be working the most mundane desk job in the world, but that will never define who you are if you focus your energies on your passions. Your job will always be what you *do* – your passion is who you *are*.

To start a blog of your own, make sure you write about something you’re passionate about. For starters, you’re more likely to talk about it anyway, and further, it will give you the opportunity to meet other like-passion’d people.

The hitch is not getting discouraged when you spend days, weeks, or months getting four readers a day. Building an audience takes time – stick with it, join communities, and be pro-active.

Join “The Origins Project” tomorrow when Branden of “Foolish Blatherings” talks about his humble beginnings in blogging.