The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

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All Episodes

Indie Film Distribution: What Filmmakers Get Wrong

Why do most indie films fail to make money? In this episode, we break down the real reason—filmmakers focus on production, not distribution—and how to build a clear path to sales, investors, and ROI from the start. 

How to Avoid Making an Invisible Film

Why do some indie films completely disappear after release? In this episode, we break down the concept of the “invisible film” — movies that get uploaded to platforms but generate little to no revenue. Learn why platform saturation, over-reliance on distributors, and lack of film ...  Show more

The Collapse of the Mid-Budget Indie Film

The mid-budget independent film model is collapsing — and most filmmakers don’t see it coming. In this episode, I break down why $750K–$5M films are struggling, how the loss of DVD revenue and platform saturation changed the market, why B-list cast no longer guarantees sales, and ...  Show more

Inside Film Markets: The Job of a Sales Agent

What do sales agents really do at film markets like Cannes, AFM, and EFM? In this episode, I explain how sales agents meet buyers, pitch films, and secure distribution deals. You'll also learn why most deals don't happen during the market itself, but in the weeks after buyers rev ...  Show more

Most Producers Only Pay $1 for a Script (Here’s Why)

What is an option agreement and how do indie producers legally control a screenplay without buying it upfront? In this episode, Tom breaks down film option agreements, $1 options, term lengths, writer payments, and how rights revert if a movie doesn’t get made. A practical, no-no ...  Show more