The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

Film Festivals vs. Film Markets – Where Should You Sell Your Movie?

Are film festivals like Sundance, Toronto, and Cannes the best place to sell your movie, or should you focus on film markets like AFM, EFM, and the Marché du Film? In this episode, we break down the key differences between festivals and markets, revealing where real deals happen and how filmmakers can maximize their chances of securing distribution.
🎬 Why only a few festivals lead to real sales💰 How film markets operate like the "Wall Street" of the movie industry📍 The best markets to attend for long-term success
If you're serious about indie filmmaking, this is a must-listen!
🔔 Follow for more film industry insights!📩 Connect with us for expert distribution strategies!
#FilmPodcast #IndieFilmmaking #FilmMarkets #AFM #Cannes #FilmDistribution

How to Break Into the Film Industry

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest questions aspiring filmmakers ask: How do I break into the film industry? Whether you’re dreaming of walking red carpets, attending festivals, or becoming a full-time filmmaker, it all starts with one key step—making a feature film.
We’ll cover why shorts are helpful but not enough, how to get your film sold and released, and why attending film markets and festivals is a game-changer for your career. Tune in for practical advice and actionable tips to kickstart your journey into the movie business.
🎙️ Don’t just dream it—make it happen!
#FilmmakingTips #IndieFilm #BreakingIntoFilm #FilmIndustry #HowToMakeMovies

The 7 Key Stages of Filmmaking

In this episode, we dive into the 7 essential stages of filmmaking, from the spark of an idea in development to a film’s long-term revenue as a library title. Learn how each stage—development, pre-production, production, post-production, sales, release, and beyond—shapes a movie's journey and maximizes its success. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or an industry pro, this guide is packed with insights to help you navigate the world of film production. 🎬
#FilmmakingPodcast #FilmProduction #IndieFilmTips #MovieMaking

Mistakes to Avoid at EFM: Top Lessons from Film Producer Tom Malloy

🎙️ 5 Mistakes to Avoid at Film Markets | Filmmaking Podcast
In this episode, we uncover 5 common mistakes filmmakers make at major film markets like the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin—and how to avoid them. Whether you're pitching your film, networking, or learning from panels, these tips will set you up for success.
What You'll Learn:✅ Why having a clear pitch or plan is essential.✅ The importance of researching buyers and sales agents beforehand.✅ How professional branding and materials make you stand out.✅ Why overpromising and under-delivering can ruin your chances.✅ The critical role of follow-ups in building relationships.
🎧 Tune in for actionable advice to help you navigate film markets, connect with industry professionals, and elevate your filmmaking career.
#FilmmakingPodcast #FilmMarkets #NetworkingTips #EuropeanFilmMarket #PitchYourFilm

European Film Market 2025: 7 Must-Know Trends for Indie Filmmakers

Top 7 Trends Shaping the European Film Market (EFM) & Independent Filmmaking in 2025
In this episode, we dive deep into the hottest trends transforming the European Film Market (EFM) and the indie film space. Discover how filmmakers are adapting to new industry standards with topics including:
Micro-Budget Film Success – Creating marketable films for $50K or less.
Niche Genre Demand – Why thrillers, action, and faith-based films are thriving.
Global VOD Opportunities – Leveraging YouTube and AVOD platforms.
The Rise of Free Content – How ad-supported viewing is changing revenue models.
Co-Production Strategies – Unlocking funding and tax incentives with international partners.
Tax Rebates Up to 50% – Filming in locations that maximize your budget.
AI in Filmmaking – The role of creative AI in reducing costs and shaping the future of production.
If you’re a filmmaker or industry insider, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the evolving film landscape. Tune in and stay ahead of the trends!
🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes on film markets, production strategies, and industry tips.
 
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The Ultimate EFM Survival Guide: Tips for Navigating the European Film Market

In this episode, we dive into everything you need to know about the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin. From navigating key locations like the Gropius Bau and Marriott to setting up meetings with industry players, this guide is packed with tips for first-timers and seasoned attendees. Discover how to prepare for Berlin’s chilly weather, use Cinando for research, network effectively, and get into exclusive events and parties.
🎧 Tune in and get ready to make the most of your EFM experience!
#EFM2025 #EuropeanFilmMarket #FilmmakingPodcast #FilmIndustryTips #BerlinFilmMarket

🎙️ Top 5 Strategies to Crush It at the European Film Market (EFM)

In this episode, we dive into the must-know tips for filmmakers attending the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin. Learn how to perfect your 2-minute pitch, build a powerful network, create a standout business plan, set up key meetings in advance, and master the art of follow-up. Whether you're pitching your film or forging connections, these strategies will help you navigate one of the industry's most focused markets.
Tune in and get ready to make an impact at EFM!
#EFM2025 #FilmmakingPodcast #FilmIndustryTips #Berlinale #FilmNetworking

Master the Art of Film Release Strategy: TVOD, SVOD, and AVOD 🎬

🎧 Master the Art of Film Release Strategy: TVOD, SVOD, and AVOD 🎬
In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, Tom Malloy dives into the modern film distribution model. Learn how to use TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand), SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand), and AVOD (Ad-Supported Video on Demand) to maximize your film's revenue. Discover the importance of windowing and how platforms like YouTube can be a goldmine for filmmakers.
💡 Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you make your movie now and distribute it successfully.
#Filmmaking #Podcast #FilmDistribution #TVOD #SVOD #AVOD

The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Film Internationally

Podcast Description: The Ultimate Guide to International Film Sales
In this episode, we break down the ultimate guide to international film sales! 🎥 Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips to get your movie noticed by sales agents and distributors around the world.
We cover:✅ The top three global film markets: AFM, EFM, and Cannes✅ How to research and pitch to sales agents effectively✅ The importance of timing your film’s completion for the right market✅ What makes a project viable: stars, marketable genres, and high-quality production✅ Insider advice on building partnerships with distributors
Plus, learn why being professional, enthusiastic, and easy to work with can make or break your success in the global film business. Tune in now to take your film to the international stage!
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe for more filmmaking and distribution insights.
#Podcast #FilmSales #IndependentFilm #FilmDistribution #AFM #CannesFilmFestival #EFM #Filmmaking

How to Build an Indie Film Budget: A Step-by-Step Guide

In this episode, we break down the essential steps to creating a professional film budget. From analyzing the scope of a script to assessing locations, cast, crew, practical effects, and visual effects, this guide is packed with actionable insights for filmmakers. Learn how to determine realistic budget numbers and avoid common pitfalls, with advice from a producer who has worked on nearly 30 films.
Whether you're working on a low-budget indie or a larger production, this episode will help you understand what it takes to craft a detailed and effective film budget. Tune in for expert tips and strategies to bring your cinematic vision to life!
Keywords: film budgeting, filmmaking tips, creating a film budget, film production, indie film, movie budget planning, filmmaking podcast, practical effects, visual effects, line producer tips.

Top 5 Mistakes Indie Filmmakers Make When Pitching to Distributors

🎙️ In this episode, filmmaker and distribution expert Tom Malloy breaks down the top 5 mistakes filmmakers make when pitching to distributors and sales agents at markets like AFM, Cannes, and EFM. If you're ready to secure a distribution deal for your film, you need to avoid these common pitfalls:
1️⃣ Not Being Concise: Learn how to deliver a tight, impactful pitch in under 2 minutes.2️⃣ Bad Artwork: Understand why professional, eye-catching artwork is a non-negotiable.3️⃣ Bad Trailer: Discover why a professionally edited trailer is your most powerful tool.4️⃣ No Research: Find out why knowing your distributor’s niche is critical to your success.5️⃣ Forgetting to Follow Up: Master the art of timely follow-ups to close the deal.
Whether you're pitching your indie film or a big-budget project, these tips will help you stand out and get noticed. Tune in now and turn your mistakes into strengths! 🎬
Keywords: Film distribution, filmmaker mistakes, pitching tips, sales agents, AFM, Cannes, EFM, film markets, Tom Malloy podcast.
#FilmDistribution #FilmmakingPodcast #FilmMarketing

Warning: Don't Get Rid of Your Business Cards!

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, host Tom Malloy shares a crucial lesson learned from his recent experiences at the American Film Market (AFM) and other industry events. Discover why sticking to traditional business cards is more effective than relying on QR codes for networking. Tom dives into the challenges of saving and organizing contact information via digital methods and highlights the benefits of physical cards, including personal touch, prioritization, and even adding your photo to make a lasting impression.  
Whether you're a filmmaker, producer, or industry professional, this episode will help you optimize your networking strategy and ensure you’re memorable at film markets and festivals. Subscribe for more actionable tips and take your filmmaking career to the next level!

Avoid These 3 Common Filmmaking Mistakes: What You Need to Know

In this Filmmaking Stuff Podcast episode, host Tom Malloy shares three common mistakes filmmakers make when shooting their movies or attending film markets like AFM, Cannes, or EFM.
Learn how to balance excitement, avoid over-promising or under-delivering, and maintain discipline to prevent burnout. Whether you’re raising money on set or pitching at a film market, these practical tips will help you navigate the process smoothly. Tune in for actionable insights to help you create your best film!
Subscribe for more filmmaking tips and success strategies.

3 Negotiation Tactics That Can Double Your Film’s Budget

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, host Tom Malloy dives into three key situations where increasing your movie budget can significantly enhance the final product. Learn why raising your budget for cast, scope, and production value can drive better sales and improve your film’s on-screen quality. Malloy shares real-world examples and cautions filmmakers to carefully manage budget increases, ensuring they benefit the film in the long run. Subscribe for actionable tips to elevate your filmmaking and create successful movies!

How to Secure the Best Distribution Deal for Your Indie Film

Learn how to secure the best distribution deal for your film with these expert tips!
In this podcast, we discuss the importance of meeting sales agents and distributors face-to-face at major film markets like the EFM in Berlin, Cannes Marché in France, and the American Film Market.
Can't attend a market? Use Cinando.com to find the right acquisitions contacts at top companies.
We also cover how to research distributors by looking at their track record and targeting those that specialize in your film's genre.
Get your movie noticed and land the best distribution deal with these insider strategies!
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Warning These 3 Mistakes Could Derail Your Film’s Funding

Are you struggling to secure financing for your film? In this podcast, we break down three common mistakes that could derail your pitch and leave potential investors uninterested.
From over-pitching your project to coming off as desperate, these errors are easy to make but crucial to avoid if you want to succeed. Learn how to keep investors engaged and excited about your film by focusing on what truly matters: the opportunity you're offering them.
Key points covered:
1. Over-pitching your film.
2. Avoiding desperation when discussing your project.
3. Staying focused on the film, not pitching unrelated extras.
Follow these tips to improve your pitch and secure the financing you need to bring your film to life! #FilmFinancing #MoviePitch #FilmmakingTips #HowToPitch #FilmInvestors #AvoidTheseMistakes #Filmmaking #FilmProduction #IndependentFilm #MovieInvestors #FilmFunding
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HELP: When is the Right Time to Pitch Your Film?

Mastering the Art of Pitch Timing: When to Pitch Your Film Project | Filmmaking Stuff Podcast
In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, host Tom Malloy shares crucial insights on the often-overlooked art of pitch timing. Whether you're networking at a bar with a producer or in a casual meeting setting, knowing the right moment to pitch your movie can make all the difference between success and a missed opportunity.
Tom explains how to read the room, gauge the energy, and avoid common pitfalls that many filmmakers encounter when pitching their projects. He also offers a simple yet powerful technique to ensure your pitch lands at the perfect time: just ask. Learn when to go for it and when to delay, setting the stage for a more formal business meeting later.
If you’ve ever found yourself anxious to pitch your film but unsure of the right moment, this episode will provide you with actionable tips to help you navigate these tricky situations with confidence.
Subscribe to the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories to help you turn your film ideas into reality. Take action and make your movie now!

Should you go to AFM? (The American Film Market)

AFM 2024: Why You Should Attend the American Film Market in Vegas | Filmmaking Stuff Podcast
In this insightful episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, host Tom Malloy dives into the significance of the American Film Market (AFM) 2024, which is moving to Las Vegas. Whether you've attended AFM when it was in downtown LA, Santa Monica, or even online during the pandemic, the core essence of this crucial film industry event remains unchanged.
Tom discusses when the right time is to attend AFM and why it’s a must for filmmakers, whether you have a completed film, a screenplay, or just an idea. He highlights the invaluable networking opportunities, the educational panels with industry experts, and how simply being present can set the foundation for future projects.
Discover why AFM is the easiest of the major film markets to access and how it can help you sell your film, make key industry connections, and plant the seeds for your future success. Whether you're an indie filmmaker, producer, or screenwriter, this episode will give you the insights you need to make the most of AFM 2024.
Subscribe to the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast for more actionable tips, tactics, and inspiring stories to help you bring your film projects to life. Take action and make your movie now!

Navigating Film Distribution: Avoid Common Mistakes

Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy. In this episode, Tom dives into the crucial moments leading up to securing a film distribution deal, an exhilarating yet daunting phase for any filmmaker.
Tom shares valuable insights and personal experiences to help you avoid common pitfalls. Learn why relying solely on the distributor can be a costly mistake and how active involvement in promoting your film can significantly boost its success. Discover the importance of thoroughly vetting distributors and the drawbacks of settling for the first offer.
Additionally, Tom emphasizes the risks of waiting too long for the perfect deal, explaining how the age of your film can impact its marketability and value. Tune in for practical tips and tactics to ensure your film gets the distribution it deserves.
Subscribe to the Filmmaking Stuff podcast for more expert advice, and remember, take action and make your movie now!

Mistakes to Avoid in Film Funding

Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast! I'm Tom Malloy, and today we're diving into common mistakes in film funding that you should avoid at all costs.
First, we discuss the dangers of appearing too desperate when pitching to potential investors. Desperation can emit negative energy and turn off investors, so it's crucial to project confidence and nonchalance.
Next, we talk about the mistake of rushing an investor. Deadlines may loom, but pushing for a quick turnaround can create doubts and red flags, making it harder to secure funding.
Lastly, we explore the risks of starting production with insufficient funds. Shooting a film with only a fraction of the budget can lead to desperation and rushed decisions, ultimately jeopardizing the project.
Join us for these valuable insights and more, and remember to subscribe for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories. Take action and make your movie now!