Earlier this year I became organizer of a Meetup.com group. Renaming it South Bay Filmmakers (SBF) and re-launching in June, it has seen consistent membership growth and meeting attendance.
If you live in LA's South Bay region (Manhattan, Redondo, Hermosa Beach and surrounding areas) you know how much of a hassle it is attending film industry events. Most are held in Santa Monica, Hollywood, or the San Fernando Valley – not a fun (or short) commute.
Also consider that Manhattan Beach is home to Raleigh-Manhattan Studios, Marvel Studios, and soon an Arcight Cinema. A number of current television shows have been shot here including CSI Miami, The OC, Weeds, and Medium. A variety of films including Point Break, Men At Work, Pirates of the Caribbean, American Beauty, and Superbad.
Clearly, there is a strong film industry presence but it's under-represented by independent filmmakers and the cast and crew staffing larger shows.
Not any longer. SBF is the only group of its kind serving filmmakers in the South Bay.
Visit us at http://www.southbayfilmmakers.org/ and RSVP for our upcoming events. Guest speakers are booked through the end of 2010 with more on the way for 2011 covering a variety of topics. Our list of sponsors is growing and includes product/service discounts and give-aways.
Membership is free and open to anyone with a passion for filmmaking and interested in meeting like-minded people to learn, network, and collaborate.