Join us as we chat with independent film producer, author, and creative entrepreneur Daren Smith to uncover the often-overlooked role producers play in bringing a story into existence. Daren discusses his collaborations with director Garrett Batty on indie films "Faith of Angels" and "The Carpenter" and how he navigates the complex world of theatrical releases.

Daren shares his journey from sound to screen, explaining how passion for theatrical distribution fuels a desire to create immersive experiences for audiences. The conversation touches on the essence of balancing artistry with commerce, as well as the significance of mentorship. Daren shares unique strategies independent producers employ to thrive in a competitive market while staying true to their creative visions.

With a keen eye on the financial success of indie films, Daren discusses innovative investment models, release strategies, and step-by-step career growth.

Learn more about Daren's Films and Check out his blog/podcast at: https://www.craftsmanfilms.co/

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

In this episode as we uncover the powerful impact of time constraints on getting things done. We illustrate how setting tight time limits can drastically reduce procrastination and boost your focus. These principles apply whether you are managing household chores or attempting to finish a film with our 1 year timeline in the Feature Filmmaker Academy. Discover how working within set time frames can lead to more efficient and concentrated work sessions.

Successful runners often prioritize the time spent running over distance or pace, emphasizing the importance of consistency. We'll discuss how incorporating short, intense bursts of activity—akin to "speed work" in running—into your daily life can yield significant results. Tune in as we explore balancing endurance and speed work, and learn how limiting yourself can actually help you get the results you want faster.

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

Director of the post-apocalyptic film, Permafrost, Lenni Uitto takes us behind the scenes and shares his experiences making and ultimately self-distributing his first film with Film Hub.

Join us as we unravel Lenni's journey from coding to creating post-apocalyptic films. From making camping videos on YouTube to experimenting with After Effects and even taking acting classes, Lenny's story is a testament to how following your passion can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths. We explore how his love for storytelling led him to create short films that have garnered impressive online viewership, followed by his first feature film.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Lenni shares the highs and lows of quitting a stable job to chase the dreams of acting and filmmaking. The importance of financial stability became evident as he navigated the challenges of an industry hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a touch of serendipity, a friend's intriguing story idea sparked the creation of his post-apocalyptic film, showcasing creativity and resilience to produce meaningful art amidst adversity.

Expect an in-depth look at the nitty-gritty of indie filmmaking, from budgeting and resourcefulness to the crucial role of collaboration. We discuss practical tips on managing costs, securing essential equipment, and feeding a cast and crew on a budget. We also dive into film distribution, marketing strategies, the process of audience targeting, and specifically Lenni's experience and results so far partnering with an aggregator, Film Hub, to release his movie.

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

In this episode we explore why thinking like a hobbyist filmmaker may be the fastest way to eventually transition into a professional career. Learn how starting with passion projects and investing in your hobby can lead to professional growth and financial sustainability. We delve into the concept of building filmmaking assets, illustrating how every project, no matter its immediate success, contributes to a lucrative portfolio over time.

It's not just about the career milestones. We also explore the intrinsic joy of creative pursuits, drawing a parallel with our son's newfound passion for baseball. His love for the game, regardless of professional equipment or formal training, serves as a poignant reminder of why we started filmmaking in the first place. Drawing inspiration from industry legends, we invite you to embrace a fearless, joyful approach to filmmaking. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned filmmaker or a passionate hobbyist, we hope this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to fuel your creative journey.

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

Join the conversation as filmmaker Matthew Taggart pulls back the curtain on the life of an indie filmmaker, from his first leap into directing with "The Counterfeit Kid" to managing the delicate balance of family and film. Matthew's journey offers a relatable peek into the highs and lows of bringing a vision to the big screen, navigating through the world of independent cinema with a blend of passion and pragmatism. His unique perspective as a father and husband infuses our chat with anecdotes that resonate, whether you're a film buff or a curious listener enchanted by the art of storytelling.

Ever wondered how indie films come to life against the odds of tight budgets and logistical hurdles? Our episode peels back layers of the production process, from scriptwriting collaborations to a barter system that keeps the wheels turning. Matthew shares tales of community generosity and the creative solutions that define indie projects, painting a vivid portrait of the camaraderie and resourcefulness that fuels the film industry's underdogs. The discussion also ventures into the nuanced arena of directing young talent, especially when the actors are from your own family tree, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the intersection of personal and professional worlds on set.

As we wrap up, Matthew ushers us through the maze of indie film distribution, highlighting his positive experiences with Porter Craig and the importance of aligning with partners who champion the film's essence. This episode is a testament to the shared dedication that courses through the veins of filmmakers and the impact of a supportive community. By the end, you'll not only have a deeper appreciation for the art of cinema but also be inspired by the determination and inventiveness that bring indie films from script to screen.

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

Where do I distribute the funds that I have procured for my film?
How much will each facet of making a movie cost me so that I know how to lay out the budget?

Once you have finished your film, you can receive laurels from festivals; even the small film festivals. These laurels help promote trailers and posters that are used to market your film to the masses.

Join us today as we dive into the subject of four walling and what it takes to do it.

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call

Free "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist

Schedule my Greenlight Call