The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

What’s a real micro-budget? And can you actually make a great movie for under $50K?

In this episode, we break down the myths around “micro-budget filmmaking” and how to shoot a real, marketable feature that looks like a million bucks—without spending it. We talk production value, tech tools, and why most people are doing it wrong.
Perfect for indie filmmakers, first-timers, and anyone serious about building a career in film.

How to Work With a Sales Agent Without Getting Burned

In this episode, I break down how filmmakers can avoid bad deals with distributors or sales agents—by doing smarter research, knowing what red flags to look for, and understanding what “getting burned” actually means in today’s film market.

How to Build a Film Business Plan That Actually Works

In this episode, we dig into the must-have elements of a professional film business plan. You’ll learn why sitting between the flashy pitch deck and legal overload is key, and exactly what to include—from a polished cover to a hypothetical investor return. Whether you're prepping for your first investor meeting or need to clean up your current plan, this breakdown will help you pitch with confidence.
Focus keyword: film business plan

How to Build a Film Career Without Living in LA or NYC

Can you break into the movie business if you don’t live in a major city? Absolutely. In this episode, we cover real strategies to stay connected to the industry through film markets, festivals, meetings, and smart networking — no matter where you live.
Listen and find out how showing up (in person or online) can open doors from anywhere.

How to Find and Attract the Right Film Investor

Not all money is good money. In this episode, learn how to envision the ideal investor for your film and craft your outreach accordingly. Whether it’s a horror fan with money to burn or a philanthropist passionate about your doc topic, this strategy gets results.

5 Things to Know before you Make Your First Feature

First-time feature filmmaker? In this episode, I break down 5 things I wish I knew before shooting my first professional movie. From finding the right team to staying sane through chaos, these tips are gold for anyone stepping into the director’s chair.
🎬 Keywords: indie filmmaking, first feature film, production tips, filmmaking advice, how to make a movie

How to Find and Attract the Right Film Investor

Not all money is good money. In this episode, learn how to envision the ideal investor for your film and craft your outreach accordingly. Whether it’s a horror fan with money to burn or a philanthropist passionate about your doc topic, this strategy gets results.

How to Make a Film Pitch Deck That Gets Investors & Distributors Interested

What makes a pitch deck work? In this episode, I talk about why your visual presentation can make or break your film pitch—and how to make yours stand out, even if you’re not a designer. We'll cover the difference between pitch decks and business plans, the value of professional design, and how to leave a strong first impression.
Keywords: movie pitch deck, film business plan, filmmaking tips, indie film investors, professional design for filmmakers

What does a sales agent actually do at film markets like AFM, EFM, or Cannes?

In this episode, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how we set up meetings, pitch films, and close deals. From wrangling 18 buyer meetings a day to figuring out which trailer makes a film sell—this is a real-world guide to the hustle of film sales.
🎬 Keywords: film markets, AFM, EFM, Cannes, sales agents, indie film distribution, film sales strategy, pitching films

Is Your IMDb Page Helping or Hurting Your Shot at Distribution?

Distributors and sales agents often check your IMDb to gauge your experience. In this episode, I break down how to make sure your page works in your favor, what to include, what not to fake, and why professionalism (even in your email address) really matters.

Making a Movie With Friends: Boundaries, Roles & Avoiding Drama

Should you hire your friend for your movie?In this episode, we unpack the risks and real-world consequences of letting friendship override talent on a film set. Learn why written agreements matter, how to avoid creative hijacking, and how to spot the difference between a loyal friend and a liability.🎧 Listen now to make smarter crew decisions and avoid costly regrets.
Keywords: filmmaking, hiring crew, indie film tips, working with friends, production mistakes, how to choose your team

How to Use Your Short Film to Launch a Feature Career

In this episode, we’re talking strategy—not theory. If you’ve made a short (or are about to), this is the roadmap to make it count. We break down how to pick the right genre, why your feature script should be ready to go, and how to use festivals to build momentum toward directing your first feature.
🎯 Perfect for indie filmmakers ready to move beyond shorts.

AI is Disrupting VFX—Are You Ready for It?

AI is rapidly changing the game for visual effects—and if you're a filmmaker, you can’t afford to ignore it. In this episode, we break down how VFX margins are shrinking, why AI-generated effects are closing the quality gap, and how emerging tech like AI dubbing is opening doors to global distribution. Plus, a real-world example of a film budget gone wrong.
🎙️ Whether you're producing on a shoestring or planning your next big feature, this episode delivers real talk on what’s working (and what’s not) in today’s filmmaking landscape.

Movie Theaters Vs. Streamers - Are They at War?

In this episode, we break down the surprising shift in the film industry—streamers and theaters are no longer at odds. With theatrical windows shrinking and major studios like Amazon going theatrical-first, we explore how this new partnership is boosting VOD performance and changing the game for indie filmmakers. Whether you're planning your film’s release or just staying ahead of trends, this is a must-listen.

Why Kneecap Is One of the Best Movies of 2024

In this episode, we’re diving into Kneecap, Ireland’s submission for Best International Feature at the 2024 Academy Awards. This high-energy film follows the Irish rap group Kneecap as they bring hip-hop to life in old Irish Gaelic, pushing back against cultural repression. It’s got that same adrenaline rush as Whiplash and Slumdog Millionaire, but with a completely unique voice.
We’ll break down why Kneecap stands out, how diverse storytelling can break through, and why filmmakers should focus on creating authentic, fresh perspectives—without forcing it. If you love films that introduce you to new worlds, this episode is for you.
🎧 Tune in now and let’s talk about what makes Kneecap one of the best films of the year!
🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts! What’s a movie that totally transported you into a world you’d never seen before? Drop a comment and let us know.

The Truth About Film Set Jobs: Why PA Work Isn’t About the Money

🎬 Thinking about working on a film set? If you’re looking for film set jobs just to make money, you might be in for a surprise. In this episode, I break down the reality of getting hired as a Production Assistant (PA) and why entry-level film jobs aren’t a financial goldmine—but they can be the best way to gain experience, make connections, and build a career in the industry.
🔹 Why PA jobs pay little to nothing (especially in indie films)🔹 The difference between indie and studio production gigs🔹 How learning a skill like DP or AC work can help you earn more🔹 Why filmmaking is a long game, and PA work is just the first step
If you want to work in film for the long haul, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to break into the industry the right way!
💬 Have experience working on set? Drop a comment and let’s talk!
📌 Follow for more insider filmmaking tips and industry advice.
#FilmSetJobs #ProductionAssistant #FilmmakingCareer

The Truth About Indie Film Success: Lessons from Anora

Is your indie film the next Anora? While it had a $6M budget, the real game-changer was an $18M marketing spend. In this episode, we break down the economics of indie films vs. studio-backed projects, why marketing is crucial, and how to improve your chances of success. Don’t fall for misleading comparisons—learn the real strategies that work!
🎧 Subscribe for more indie filmmaking insights!#IndieFilm #Filmmaking #FilmMarketing #IndependentFilm #Anora

How Film Reviews Boost Visibility and Sales

How Reviews Can Make or Break Your Film’s Success 🎬⭐
In this episode, we dive into the power of reviews and how they impact a film’s visibility on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, and Tubi. Learn how positive reviews can boost your movie in search algorithms, why verified purchaser reviews matter, and how a web series we distributed skyrocketed after winning an Emmy.
Plus, tips on getting your cast, crew, and fans to support your film with strategic reviews!
🎧 Listen & Subscribe for more film industry insights!
#FilmmakingPodcast #IndieFilm #FilmMarketing #MovieDistribution #AmazonPrime #FilmPromotion

The Future of Film Distribution: VOD, Streaming & Industry Trends 🎬📡

Film distribution is changing faster than ever! In this episode, we break down the evolution from traditional theatrical and DVD sales to the rise of VOD (Video on Demand)—including TVOD, SVOD, and AVOD. Discover how platforms like Netflix, Tubi, and YouTube are shaping the industry, why AVOD is booming, and what indie filmmakers must do to stay ahead. Don’t get left behind—learn how to maximize your film’s revenue in the modern digital landscape!
🎧 Tune in for:✅ TVOD, SVOD & AVOD explained✅ How streaming platforms impact distribution✅ The decline of DVD & physical media✅ Theatrical vs. digital-first release strategies
🔔 Subscribe for more filmmaking & distribution insights!#FilmDistribution #FilmmakingPodcast #VOD #StreamingTrends #IndieFilm #MovieMarketing

Should You Use an NDA for Your Screenplay? The Truth About Screenplay Protection

Should you require an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) before sending your screenplay to producers or agents? In this episode, we break down why NDAs are NOT standard in the film industry—except for high-profile IPs like Marvel or Lucasfilm. Learn why using an NDA can make you look like an amateur, why screenplay theft is rare, and how digital timestamps easily prove ownership.
🎙 What You’ll Learn:✔️ Are NDAs necessary for screenwriters?✔️ Why industry pros won’t sign NDAs✔️ The reality of screenplay theft & legal protection✔️ Best practices for safely sharing your script
🎧 Tune in now for expert screenwriting insights!
🔔 Don’t forget to follow & leave a review for more filmmaking tips!
#Screenwriting #NDA #ScreenplayProtection #FilmIndustry #Filmmaking #HollywoodTips