The Truth About Finding Work In The Film Industry - Andy Rydzewski

Overview

Andy Rydzewski (cinematographer) argues that working in film is inherently unstable and not a reliable foundation for long-term security. He describes it as similar to “temp work,” where careers depend on the next project rather than lasting guarantees.

Why Film Feels Uncertain

He points out that even major stars can feel anxious between jobs (using Kevin Bacon as an example). He also warns that competitive outcomes—such as projects bombing, name recognition fading, and shifting audience tastes—make future work difficult to predict.

Impact on Personal Life

Rydzewski connects industry instability to personal stress. Demanding schedules (including examples like 80-hour weeks) can strain both romantic and non-romantic relationships. While he emphasizes he loves the craft, he frames the industry as stressful “by nature,” encouraging people to “realize the reality” rather than rely on romantic expectations.

Structural Changes Shaping the Future

He says the industry’s future is especially unclear due to changes in distribution:

• Movie theaters reopening is uncertain, even with partial reopening.
• Streaming has grown rapidly, creating more shows than ever, but the shift has reduced or eliminated residual payments.
  • Residuals previously helped writers, directors, and actors sustain careers.
• As a result, while work still exists, the money and long-term support model is weaker and less predictable.

Coping Strategy: What He Can Control

To stay grounded, he emphasizes a personal approach:

• Focus on what he can control—especially performance and professionalism on set.
• Let go of what he can’t influence, such as whether a project finds a home.
• Keep chasing creative excitement—reading scripts and imagining how he’d shoot future work.

He admits discouragement about not being able to “put down roots,” but says he stays motivated through the art itself.

Managing Anxiety (Including During the Pandemic)

Rydzewski also describes practical routines for mental health and stability during uncertain stretches:

• Walking
• Spending time in nature/camping when possible
• Exercising consistently as “medicine”
• Using gratitude to counter spiraling thoughts

He reflects on gratitude for health and small comforts that helped during isolation—such as having a high-quality TV since he couldn’t go to theaters—and ties it back to finding reasons to keep living the life he chose.

Question for Viewers

Whether your view of the film industry is realistic or romantic.

Presenters / Contributors

• Andy Rydzewski (Cinematographer)
• Film Courage (interviewer/host)