The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

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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VISIT FILMMAKING STUFF https://filmmakingstuff.com
ACCESS EXCLUSIVE COMMUNITY Https://www.filmmakingstuffHQ.com
GET THE BACKYARD BLOCKBUSTER BLUEPRINT https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/backyard-blockbuster-blueprint-info/
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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!

The Great Debate: Distribution Company vs. Self-Distribution for Your Film

Hello, filmmakers! Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, hosted by Tom Malloy. In this episode, we dive deep into the pros and cons of using a distribution company versus self-distributing your movie.
Tom, owning a sales agency and a distribution company, shares his insights on why going the traditional route with a sales agent or distributor might be beneficial. However, he also highlights the control and potential for higher profits with self-distribution.
We explore the role of aggregators, essential for getting your film onto major platforms like Apple TV and Tubi, and discuss the vital relationships and international reach that sales agents and distributors bring to the table.
Tom also addresses common concerns, such as marketing fees and unscrupulous practices, while emphasizing the importance of filmmakers actively participating in promoting their films, regardless of the distribution method chosen.
Join us for this comprehensive guide to making the best distribution choice for your film. Don't forget to subscribe for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories. Until next time, take action and make your movie now!

Mastering Your Film's Rollout Strategy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy! In this episode, we delve into the critical elements of a successful film rollout strategy.Discover the importance of timing, sequencing, and coordinated marketing efforts to ensure your film reaches its maximum potential. Learn the intricacies of transitioning from transactional video on demand (TVOD) to subscription-based (SVOD) and ad-based video on demand (AVOD), and why breaking these windows can be detrimental.Tom shares valuable insights on how to effectively market your film at each stage, leveraging social media, influencers, and partnerships with sales agents or distributors. Tune in to understand how a well-planned rollout can sustain your film's momentum and success over time.Don't miss out on these essential tips and tactics for filmmakers. Subscribe now for more inspiring stories and practical advice. Take action and make your movie now!

Mastering Indie Film Budgeting: Tips from Tom Malloy

Are you struggling to budget your indie film? Many filmmakers find it hard to create and stick to a budget. A common mistake is underestimating costs and running out of money mid-production.
In this episode, we dive deep into the essentials of film budgeting. Learn how to categorize your line items into flexible and fixed costs, negotiate better rates, and use contingency funds wisely. Discover strategies to handle unexpected expenses and the importance of clear communication with investors. Tom Malloy shares practical advice from his experience, including insights from his course, Backyard Blockbuster Blueprint. https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/backyard-blockbuster-blueprint-info/
Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or just starting, this episode offers valuable tips to help you make the best movie possible within your budget.
Don't forget to subscribe for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories. Until next time, take action and make your movie now.

Mastering the Art of the Two-Minute Film Pitch

Struggling to get investors interested in your film? Many filmmakers find it hard to pitch their own projects. Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy. In this episode, we dive deep into the essentials of pitching your movie effectively.
Tom shares his insights from years of experience in the industry, teaching pitching classes, and listening to hundreds of pitches. Learn why a concise, two-minute pitch is crucial and how to focus on the hooks that make your project stand out.
Discover the importance of highlighting the key elements of your film, from the story's unique aspects to technical details and value points. Understand how to practice and refine your pitch continuously, ensuring it captures the attention of potential investors.
Don't miss these invaluable tips and tactics to help you take action and make your movie now. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and expert advice from Tom Malloy and the Filmmaking Stuff podcast.

How Film Distributors and Sales Agents Make Money

Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, hosted by Tom Malloy. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of how film distributors and sales agents generate revenue through sales fees, licensing deals, and revenue sharing. Understanding these mechanisms can empower filmmakers to negotiate better deals and appreciate the value these professionals bring to the table.
Tom explains the hybrid nature of modern sales agents and distributors, using his own company, Glasshouse Distribution, as an example. He discusses the differences between international buyout deals and U.S. distribution, highlighting the typical revenue splits and the importance of scrutinizing expenses. Tom emphasizes the need for transparency in costs and warns against hidden fees that can eat into a film's revenue.
He underscores the importance of making a film stand out in a challenging market and explores the limitations of self-distribution compared to professional distribution networks.
Ready to demystify film distribution economics? Click the link for more info.
https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/international-film-distribution-action-plan-info/
And follow me if you want to produce movies!
#FilmDistributors, #FilmEconomics, #Filmmaking, #IndieFilm, #MovieDeals

How to Get Your Film Noticed by Top Distributors

Hey, filmmakers, want to catch the eye of top distributors? Let's make it happen. Hello, I'm Tom Malloy. Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, where we share tips and tactics so you can take action and make your movie now.
In this episode, I discuss strategies to get your film noticed by top distributors. It's not just about finding distributors; it's about creating a strong online presence and leveraging film festivals to generate interest. Learn why having an early buzz, press releases, and a fan base can make a significant difference.
Discover how genre film festivals like Fantasia and Sitges, or major festivals like Sundance, can give your film the seal of approval it needs. Understand the importance of marketing your film before approaching distributors, and why a compelling online presence is irresistible to them.
Ready to make your film irresistible to distributors? Click the link for more info. And follow me if you want to produce movies!  http://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com
#FilmDistributors, #Filmmaking, #FilmMarketing, #IndieFilm, #MoviePitch

Building Your Dream Indie Film Crew: Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Welcome to another action-packed episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, hosted by Tom Malloy. In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial task of building a strong crew for your indie film.
Many filmmakers struggle with assembling the right team, often making snap decisions that can lead to costly mistakes. Tom shares insightful tips on how to be discerning when choosing key crew members, such as the director of photography, line producer, and sound recordist. He emphasizes the importance of defining roles and responsibilities clearly to avoid potential pitfalls.
Learn from real-life experiences and discover how one wrong hire can impact your entire film production. Tom also discusses the value of having a trusted list of reliable crew members and the significance of local connections in the filmmaking industry.
Don't miss this episode if you want to ensure your film is produced to the highest standard possible. Subscribe now for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories. Take action and make your movie now!Click the link for more info and follow me if you want to produce movies: http://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com
#FilmTeam, #IndieFilm, #FilmmakingTips, #TeamBuilding, #TomMalloy

Inside Cannes 2024: Film Market Insights and Opportunities

Welcome to the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy! In this action-packed episode, we dive into the highlights and insights from the 2024 Cannes Film Festival and the concurrent Marché du Film, the world's largest film market.
Tom shares his firsthand experiences and key takeaways, including the significance of Cannes as the second most covered event globally, the challenges faced with security and organization, and the evolving preferences of film buyers. Discover why action, thriller, and family films are in demand, and learn about the growing opportunities in co-production markets, especially with new UK tax credits.
Tom emphasizes the importance of attending film markets like Cannes, EFM, and AFM for networking, gaining industry knowledge, and advancing your filmmaking career. Tune in for invaluable advice on how to make the most of these events, even if your film is still in the planning stages.
Don't miss this episode filled with practical tips and inspiring stories to help you take action and make your movie now. Subscribe for more insights from the Filmmaking Stuff podcast!

The Secret to Getting Your Film Funded

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with your host Tom Malloy. This episode reveals a valuable secret to secure your film's funding before you hit the production phase. This episode addresses a significant issue that frustrates many filmmakers - how to find initial funding for their projects. Find out why you should never rush into raising the full production budget without first securing your development fund.Discover what development financing means and how it can change your movie-making journey. With real-life examples, learn how a development budget, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in realizing successful films – even with big-budget ones. The episode breaks down the components of the development budget, including producer fees, legal paperwork, LLC setup, and more, explaining why each is a vital part of your pre-production process.Get expert insights on how hiring a casting director can take your project to the next level. Plus, find out how the extensive casting lists provided by professional casting directors can narrow down the most suitable and available actors for your indie or studio film.This episode also covers the importance of using development funding to attend film markets and how these events can enable you to pick up a sales agent or distributor. Learn how to engage initial interest in your project, showing potential partners who you are aiming to attach to your project as a significant step in securing film finance.Understand the intricacies of development financing, and how the calculated risk entailed makes it a much safer form of investment. Explore why the journey to making a $3 million film starts with a much less daunting $50,000 in development funds. Whether your first investor opts for a simple payback once the film's fully financed or desires an along-for-the-ride experience with an executive producer credit, development financing covers all bases.Tune into the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy for more exceptional tips, tactics, and inspiring stories. Let your film creation journey begin today.

The 3 Types of VOD Platforms Every Filmmaker Must Know

Welcome to the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy, an action-packed podcast where we share filmmaking tips and strategies! In a fast-paced digital age where traditional release windows are now complex due to the rise of VOD (Video on Demand) platforms, filmmakers need a robust strategy to maximize their movie's revenue. Dive in as we decode various VOD platforms and the significant role they play in a movie's distribution strategy.In this episode, we explore the concept of 'windowing', a release schedule one must follow. Violating this pattern can negatively affect the potential for monetizing your movie. We delve into the intricacies of these windows and why it's crucial not to "break" them. For instance, if you release on Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD) such as Fandango or Apple TV first and then aim to release it in theaters, it's not going to work. Once a window is opened, you cannot retreat.We demystify the three types of VOD - TVOD, SVOD (Subscription-based VOD - e.g., Netflix), and AVOD (Ad-based VOD - e.g., Youtube). Each type serves a different function and can impact your movie's distribution and profits differently.We also share insights on the possible mistakes filmmakers make when releasing films on these platforms, emphasizing the need for sequential release (windowing) rather than simultaneous release across all platforms (shotgunning). By following a targeted windowed release pattern, filmmakers have the potential to maximize revenue on every platform.Whether you're working with a sales agent, distributor, or self-distributing, understanding these release patterns is paramount to your film's profitability. So set on a journey with us as we navigate the complex world of VOD distribution in the Filmmaking Stuff podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for interesting stories, tips, and tactics that will help push your filmmaking boundaries!

3 Pitch Mistakes that will Tank your Movie (and how to avoid them)

Welcome to another episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, with your host, Tom Malloy. In this action-packed episode, Tom shares the three most common movie pitch mistakes that could ruin your chances of securing funds for your project. He emphasizes the critical importance of pitching to investors and provides actionable tactics to avoid potential pitfalls.Tom shares his experiences from hundreds of pitch meetings, highlighting the importance of knowing your investor, preparing your project, and maintaining high energy throughout the pitch. Providing practical examples, Tom discusses the challenge filmmakers face when they're unaware of their investors' interests and preferences, or when they pitch an unprepared project.Tom lays bare the often-overlooked importance of energy levels during the movie pitch process. He explains why a low-energy pitch can kill the deal, even with a solid project. He discusses the crucial importance of maintaining enthusiasm and passion during your pitch so that the investor feels your excitement and shares in your vision.Tom encourages you to master the art of pitching, as this can secure the funding your film deserves. Remember to check out the Filmmaking Stuff podcast for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories in your filmmaking journey.

Rejection to Producer: How I Broke Free and Made My Own Film

In this empowering episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, seasoned filmmaker Tom Malloy shares his experience over two decades ago when his script was held hostage by an unscrupulous producer. He details the deception, the broken promises, and the eventual tough decision that saw him take control of his script and destiny.
Tom opens up about his early days as a young actor and budding filmmaker, falling prey to a manipulative producer who was all promises but short on action. This producer quickly became the executor of his script's fate, wreathing himself around it like it was his own. He had control over casting, execution, and even production. But the saga ended in deceit, leaving Tom with precious lessons on contracts and undermining his creative vision.
The heart of the story is Tom's shift in mindset. In the face of disappointment, he found resilience, picking himself up and reorienting his focus towards achieving his dream. He shares the liberating moment when he reclaimed his intellectual property, released his grip on lost opportunities and walked away from false alliances.
Tom, now an emblem of DIY filmmaking in Hollywood, tells how he channeled his painful experiences into a horror film script titled "The Attic", which later featured big-name stars. His journey underscores the importance of staying true to oneself and understanding that all one needs to kickstart an ambitious project is a determined mindset and one's existing resources.The episode is an encouraging cheer to filmmakers dealing with setbacks and a testament to how setbacks can reposition one's trajectory upward.
This episode is a must-listen for filmmakers at any stage, especially those who've given control of their film to a producer. Also for those looking to get started, this episode provides a reservoir of motivation to overcome fears and self-doubt. It compellingly shows that no budget or famous cast is required to kickstart one's filmmaking journey.
So why not pull up a chair, listen in and get ignited for your next filmmaking adventure? Happy listening!

From First Draft to Film-Ready: Perfecting Your Screenplay

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, host Tom Malloy explains the often misunderstood process of screenwriting. Dispelling the myth that a screenplay is ready after the first draft, Malloy tells new screenwriters that industry executives demand polished scripts reflecting professional standards. The first completion of your screenplay is just the rough 'garbage' draft. Now comes the hard work of rewriting and polishing it.
Malloy compares screenwriting to sculpturing. The first draft is just a big rock. Your task then is to shape this into a recognizable form in the rewrite, and then go back a third time to add defining details in the polishing phase. These make up the real first draft. An understanding of this process is paramount for all screenwriters, even the most celebrated and successful ones. They do not simply type 'The End' and then send off their work. They rewrite and polish.
Beware of the danger of sharing your 'garbage' draft with others. You only get one chance to impress; people are generally unwilling to dedicate extra time to reread your script. Your polished screenplay is what opens doors in Hollywood. So, make sure your first read counts.
For more tips on transforming your initial draft into a market-ready script, follow the Filmmaking Stuff podcast. And remember, the journey to creating a great screenplay requires grit, patience, and continuous honing of your craft. Give every read your best shot!
And for more information on Screenwriting, go to: https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/write-your-screenplay-info/

Unlocking the Power of Trade Publications in the Filmmaking Industry

Join host Tom Malloy in this episode of the "Filmmaking Stuff" podcast for essential tips on how to get your film featured in top industry trade publications like Variety, Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline. Discover the power of press releases, the importance of timing, and how knowing the right people can make all the difference.
Whether you're an independent filmmaker or an industry veteran, learn how to boost your career by making sure the right people see your work.
Don't miss out on practical advice for getting your film the attention it deserves in the competitive world of cinema. Subscribe for more insights and take the steps to make your movie now!