Although some of the prestige of gold and platinum cards has disappeared over the last ten years or so, many people still feel that they have not ?arrived? until they get one of these cards. If you are looking into getting a gold or platinum card, then you should know about the benefits and drawbacks before you sign up for anything. Here are some tips to help you decide whether or not to get a gold or platinum card.
Why get gold or platinum?
Gold and platinum cards used to be something of a major status symbol, and those without one were often seen as less successful. Although this isn't so much the case anymore, gold and platinum cards do tend to carry higher credit limits and more features. If you require a high credit limit, and want to take advantage of features such as extra airport hospitality, then a gold or platinum card is for you.
How much do I need to earn?
Although gold and platinum cards are no longer reserved for the very rich, you usually need to be earning at least 20,000 a year to be considered for one. Generally, an income level higher than this is required to get a good deal and all the possible features. If you are on a good wage and have a sound credit history, then you can apply for one of these cards.
What are the costs?
Obviously, these gold or platinum cards have more features, and so you should expect to pay more for the services. They all generally charge an annual fee, as well as having higher interest rates. Before getting such a card you should weigh up the benefits of the extra features against these higher costs.
Beware of the scams
If you are going to get a gold or platinum card, you should be aware of the scams and cons that circulate regarding such cards. There are a number of cards advertised as gold or platinum that are not what they appear to be. Often you will have to pay a number of fees to get hold of the card, or call an expensive telephone number. Also, when you get the card you might find out you can only buy products from certain catalogues set by the lender. Many people get caught by these scams because of the promise that they can get better cards in the future. If you are in doubt, then don't sign anything and look elsewhere.
Are they worth it?
If you have a high income and can afford or need a high credit limit, or if you travel a lot, then a gold or platinum card might be a good choice for you. However, most average people with good credit histories will notice little difference between one of these cards and their regular cards. If you don't require the extra benefits, then go for a normal card with a lower credit limit and lower fees.
The Academy has for long snubbed low-budget films because it felt that they did not have the lavish production design of let’s say a Titanic or an English Patient. Of course there have been instances of surprise nominations and wins (i.e. Billy Bob Thornton won the Oscar for Best Screenplay for Sling Blade) but generally it has completely overlooked digital filmmaking.
Many industry professionals believe that we have finally come to a point where world cinema will change that. More and more filmmakers have now access to digital filmmaking equipment, thanks mainly to the 24P feature on most cameras that create a film look from the previous 30frames per second.
Super Size Me that was a major hit on the American Film Market was shot on digital and it came as no surprise when it was nominated for an Oscar for best documentary. Another film that was completely shot on digital for the low-budget of 500k, was Open Water.
Chris Kentis, the writer-director of the film had previously made Grind with Amanda Peet decided to pull his resources together and film this film in the middle of the ocean. The grainy look of the Panasonic DVX-100 added an interesting realistic quality to the film because it does give off the feeling of it being a documentary.
When the two main characters are stranded in the middle of the ocean, the viewer slowly drifts into thinking it is really happening and the camera that was once used to film the two on vacation has been turned against them to film the horrific experience.
These films are more easily picked up by distributors because they have a documentary feel to them, but would a conventional narrative have the same easy access to theatres if it were shot on a digital camera?
There are new technologies that are coming out such as the new High Definition cameras like the f-900 that allow filmmakers to work without all the restrictions implemented by film. George Lucas was the first to shoot digitally all three of his Star Wars prequels including the latest Revenge of the Sith. After him, Michael Mann shot Collateral with Tom Cruise using digital intermediate to add the depth of field that is so great in film.
Machiavelli Hangman, thought to be the major independent hit of 2006, was also shot on a High Definition Camera with some digital intermediate. Despite Machiavelli Hangman’s low-budget and digital format, many believe that it may be the first ever film shot on a digital camera to be nominated for the best picture awards.
There will be a great change in cinema when digital filmmaking becomes more acceptable in Hollywood standards. This will mean less focus on politics and power and more focus on diversified talent and material.
Both Peter K & Jim Stormer are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Peter K has sinced written about articles on various topics from Credit Cards, Debts Loans and Liability Insurance. Peter Kenny has been writing financial articles for the last 10 years, please visit Money Saving Advice and. Peter K's top article generates over 135000 views. Bookmark Peter K to your Favourites.
Jim Stormer has sinced written about articles on various topics from Finances. Jim Storm is a lawyer and entertainment columnist, in New York, NY. His insight into digital filmmaking and the history of the Oscars, brings an interesting insight into the future of the soon-to-be-released, Machiavelli Hangman:. Jim Stormer's top article generates over 135000 views. Bookmark Jim Stormer to your Favourites.