frequently asked questions
1. "What the hell is a Stupid Optical Studio(s)/Film(s)/thing/what have you?"
Stupid Optical Studios is, in the most basic explanation, Tom's little film studio.

2. "Where can I watch X or Y or why is X/Y/Z not available here?"
A lot of Tom's films thus far have been student films created on an incredibly strict deadline. Therefore, they're quite unpolished -- some even being screened as their animatics -- and require a little bit of touching up before they're made available for your viewing here on the web. Some projects may also not be available just because we haven't gotten them up on here yet, or because they aren't legally owned by us (i.e. things S.O. has contributed to but not created.) Sorry!
3. "Were you under the influence when coming up with such a name?"
We stumbled across a slate for an incredibly old project back in the beginning of 2023, and upon it was written:

STUPID DAMN FILM!!! TAKE ONE
OCTOBER '22
We weren't too keen on that name, and we were sure that the Division of Revenue wouldn't be either, so damn became optical. They are stupid little things you can see (hence "optical") and... they are films. So, uh... there's your origin story. You must be quivering with excitement.


4. "How do I contact Tom/the studio?"
THE BIG CONTACT BUTTON ON THE SIDEBAR!!! Seriously, though, check it out!

4b. "I like the way them pictures look/move. Can you make some silly/serious thing for me if I give you some money?"
Make sure to e-mail Tom directly. Tom replies to emails a lot and can work something out.

5. "Is Stupid Optical Studios hiring?"
Not at the moment. Sorry! This operation is mostly Tom at the helm with some of his friends occasionally helping out.

6. "I love S.O. I want to support you or send you something to show my love. Give me all of your home addresses!!!!!! Please."
Easy there, tiger! We're flattered. If you want to support us, see the support us page on the sidebar! If you want to mail us something (that will not incinerate us), go see the contact page for our mailing address.

7. "What do you create this stuff with?"
from Tom: honestly, i can't give a straight definitive answer to this because there is none. throughout the years i've used a variety of programs and mediums to make films (adobe flash, photoshop, pro tools, pen and paper, dslr, 16mm) so... i suppose the best answer would be...everything! okay that's not a very good answer. sorry.

8. "Is S.O. a legitimate business or just a coalition of dumb idiot people?"

Not sure why it can't be both! Yes, though, Stupid Optical Studios is a limited liability company in the State of New Jersey.