Show Don't Tell: Micro-budget Filmmaking

Returning to the show this week is Alex Ferrari of the Indie Film Hustle podcast. Alex has been educating filmmakers for years through a multitude of platforms, and has just written a new book that truly takes things to the next level: Rise of the Filmtrepreneur.The film industry has gone through a massive change over the past few years and most filmmakers are not prepared to make a living with their work in this new ecosystem. Alex's new book brilliantly outlines an approach and system that can serve as an antidote to this issue, arming filmmakers with the tactics needed to build a profitable career. We discuss all this and much more in today's episode.Links from the show -https://www.filmbizbook.comFor more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com

This week, my guest is Brad Raider - a fellow LA based filmmaker who made his debut feature Kensho at the Bedfellow on a budget of $250,000.Over the course of our chat, Brad speaks at length about his fundraising process which uniquely leveraged his meditation community to bring his vision to life. We also talk about his challenging production process that spanned 30 locations and 29 shooting days. Other topics covered include: The importance of creating space for your creativity, distribution options for micro-budget features and much more.Links from the show:kenshofilm.comreddogsquadron.commdt8.combradraider.comFor more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com

This week, I’m joined by Alrik Bursell - co-host of the very popular Making Movies Is Hard Podcast. Alrik is currently in the midst of fundraising for his upcoming feature film - The Alternate - an ambitious sci-fi film he’s been developing for 5 years.Over the course of our interview, Alrik and I talk about the fundraising process at length. Topics covered include: Securing initial seed money, approaching investors, attending film markets, crowdfunding and much more. This is a must listen for anyone looking to raise money for their movie.Links from the show -Seed & Spark CampaignThe Alternate On FacebookThe Alternate On InstagramThe Alternate On TwitterMaking Movies Is Hard PodcastFor more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com

Most indie filmmakers are guilty of overlooking the importance of sound, but my guest this week - Woody Woodhall - is here to change that. Woody is an acclaimed post-audio engineer, owner of LAPPG and Allied Post, and has played an instrumental role in hundreds of television and film projects.Over the course of our discussion, Woody outlines the most pressing sound-related issues known to plague independent filmmakers, and shares insight on how to avoid them entirely. We also touch on a whole host of other topics including: career advice, tips for on set audio production, workflow considerations, and much more.Links from the show:Allied PostLAPPGWoody's book on Amazon  For more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com

This week my guest is Zach Lipovsky, the co-director of the theatrically released feature film Freaks, which stars Emile Hirsch and Bruce Dern. Zach and his partner Adam were able to successfully raise financing for their script, attach A-list actors, land a premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, and sell their movie for $2,000,000.Over the course of this episode, we walk through the A to Z of this process - from the beginning stages of raising private equity to production, film festivals, and theatrical distribution. Zach shares an incredible amount of tactical advice on the business side of things, which can surely serve as a blueprint for other filmmakers with big screen aspirations. Links from the show -https://twitter.com/zachlipovskyhttps://instagram.com/zach.lipovskyhttps://www.freaks.movieGet a free copy of the shotlister app by emailing showdonttell@shotlister.comFor more content like this visit https://noamkroll.com

One of the most prolific indie filmmakers in recent years is undoubtedly Joe Swanberg. He’s best known for his feature film Drinking Buddies, but has made dozens of other features - including a string of 7 that he produced and directed in just one year.Back in 2016 Joe delivered an amazing Keynote at SXSW that focuses on the business of making and selling truly independent feature films. In this week’s episode, I distilled my 8 biggest takeaways from his keynote and shared some of my own thoughts on each point. Topics covered include: Why working with no money can be better than some money, when to invest in your own films, how shooting 25 pages can yield great results, why you should spend as little as possible on production, and much more.You can watch Joe’s full SXSW keynote here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=hNDMo0ax17EFor more content like this visit https://www.noamkroll.com

More feature films are being made than ever before, and as a result the market is completely saturated with content. This has made it harder than ever for indie filmmakers to make a living with their work, or to turn any sort of profit... But with the right approach to the process - specifically during pre-production - you can lay the groundwork for a more sellable and marketable film, which will ultimately translate to financial success.In this episode, I address this challenge at length, sharing 5 of the most crucial pre-production considerations that all filmmakers should take into account. These lessons are extracted from my Feature Filmmaking Masterclass and are a must-listen for any filmmaker looking to create a viable final product that can help launch their career.Learn more about the Feature Filmmaking Masterclass here: https://noamkroll.com/the-ultimate-micro-budget-feature-filmmaking-masterclass-is-coming-exclusive-pre-order-available-for-a-limited-time/And visit https://www.noamkroll.com for more

This week, writer/director Joshua Caldwell returns with a follow up to his interview back on Episode 71. In 2014 Josh achieved breakout success with his $6000 micro-budget film Layover, which paved the way for a directing gig for Hulu, and several feature films - including his most recent film (Southland) with Bella Thorne.Over the course of our discussion, Josh picks up where we left off on part 1, outlining his career path after achieving success with his debut feature. We talk about his experience directing a fully budgeted series for Hulu, and how that project helped him form a new approach too filmmaking as a whole. We also discuss the importance of prioritizing extra shooting days over a bigger crew, how agency reps can make or break your career, whether or not you need to live in LA as a filmmaker, and so much more.Links from the show -Layover On iTunes - http://https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/layover/id1102592500Layover On Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Layover-Natalie-Fay/dp/B01GKOUYKK/Joshua’s We

Today I address one of the most common questions asked by filmmakers - How do you make a living in the film business in 2019?While it may not be easy, building a long-term sustainable career as a filmmaker is absolutely possible. Over the course of this episode, I outline some of the most crucial variables that play into the success of any filmmaker, and can serve as a foundation for any aspiring artist.Topics covered include: diversifying your efforts, the importance of specialization, creating multiple revenue streams, and developing your artistry. For more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com

There’s no denying that building an audience is an essential part of success for working filmmakers today. Gaining a following through a blog, YouTube channel or social platform is arguably the most effective step filmmakers can take to make a living through their artwork.Speaking on the subject of audience building this week is none other than David Cogen. While he isn't a filmmaker in the traditional sense, David has been creating content for years under the company name The Unlockr. With a focus on mobile devices and other consumer tech, David has amassed well over 500,000 subscribers on YouTube while simultaneously gaining countless followers on his blog and social platforms. Over the course of this episode, he outlines his methodology for building a large audience of fans who are likely to become paying subscribers down the road. This should be especially relevant for any filmmaker looking to sell their own content, courses, or feature films via DIY distribution.Links from the show:http://www.theunlockr.

After a brief hiatus, Show Don’t Tell returns this week with our amazing guest Lawrence Jordan. If you’re a fan of movies, chances are you’ve seen some of Lawrence’s work. His career began as an assistant on iconic feature films like Back To The Future and Terms of Endearment, before editing countless features like Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigalo, Riding In Cards With Boys and 50 Shades of Black, just to name a few.Throughout this interview Lawrence shares key lessons he’s learned over the past few decades, working as an editor on Hollywood-level feature films and world renowned television series. A must listen for any filmmaker looking for a blueprint for breaking into the business and staying there.Sponsors:Shotlister.com -Email showdonttell@shotlister.com to download the app for free!Music Bed - Enter promo code SHOWDONTTELL at checkout for your first month of subscription free, or 20% off your first purchase.Links from the show:Larry On IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0266377Master The Workflow - https://ma

This week, I’m joined by Adriaan Kirchner - an incredibly accomplished LA-based cinematographer with a truly stunning body of work. Adriaan has shot projects for celebrities like Kanye West and Jamie Foxx, amazing narrative films like “The Lima” (which premiered at Tribeca film festival), and has worked with countless high profile brands on commercial and branded content.During our discussion, Adriaan shares his wealth of knowledge on the craft and business of working as a full time DP. We trace his entire career trajectory and explore key lessons learned along the way, including the importance of surrounding yourself with the right collaborators. Other topics covered include: Investing in gear, shooting spec material, lighting based on camera choice, and loads more.This episode is brought to you by http://www.cinecolor.ioLinks from the show -http://www.adriaankirchner.comhttp://www.instagram.com/agetimehttp://www.glaaascollective.comFor more content like this visit - http://www.noamkroll.com

There is perhaps no greater asset for any filmmaker to possess than a mastery of the craft of screenwriting. And joining me today to discuss all things screenwriting, is none other than Bryan Hill - An incredibly accomplished & superbly talented writer who has worked not only in Film & Television, but in the world of comic books as well.Some highlights of Bryan's TV & Film career include: ASH vs. THE EVIL DEAD and TITANS, as well as comics like BATMAN AND THE OUTSIDERS, MICHAEL CRAY and AMERICAN CARNAGE. Currently, Bryan is developing a micro-budget feature of his own, which naturally made him a perfect guest for the show. Over the course of our discussion, Bryan details his early days in the business, how he honed his skills as a writer, what his process looks like now, why he chose to make the leap into independent content creation, and so much more. This is a must listen for any filmmaker out there looking to sharpen their writing abilities and tell better stories.For more content like this vis

No camera manufacturer has been more innovative or disruptive in recent years as Blackmagic Design. Since 2013 they have been challenging the status quo, putting out cameras like their original 2.5K Cinema Camera, the Pocket Camera, and most recently their URSA Mini Pro G2 - Each of which have given low-budget filmmakers the ability to achieve high production value like never before.Here with me this week to discuss all things Blackmagic is Dan May, President of Blackmagic Design. While I’ve had the pleasure of chatting with Dan a couple times in the past about specific product releases, this time I wanted to turn the conversation to Blackmagic’s philosophy. Over the course of our conversation, Dan generously shares some Blackmagic history with us, touching on everything from the evolution of their camera lineup to the acquisition of DaVinci Resolve, what drives their innovation and so much more.http://www.blackmagicdesign.comFor more content like this visit: http://www.noamkroll.com

This week, for the first time I am doing a crossover episode! And it’s with none other than the Just Shoot It Podcast… I was really excited to sit down with hosts Oren Kaplan and Matt Enlow, as they’ve not only built an amazing podcast, but are also incredibly talented filmmakers in their own right.Both Matt and Oren work professionally as directors on commercials, branded content, and narrative films right here in Los Angeles. Throughout our discussion, we talk about what it takes to become a “professional” filmmaker, the importance of mastering creative AND technical skills, navigating the industry in 2019, and much more. This was one of the best conversations on film I’ve had in a while - big thanks to Just Shoot It for making this happen.http://justshootitpodcast.comFor more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com

This week on the show, I change up the format to have an in-depth conversation with California based filmmaker Wes Anthony. Rather than simply interviewing Wes about his career history, we decided to chat at length about the business of filmmaking in 2019, letting the audience be a fly on the wall.We tackle the film vs. digital debate, finding a balance between being technical and creative filmmaking, the future of low budget producing, advice for aspiring directors and DPs, and even a little gear talk. This and much much more on today’s nearly 2 hour episode!Links from the show:Silverside Recording - http://silversiderecording.comWes on Twitter - http://twitter.com/firehouse_caWes on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/firehousecreative/Just Fix It In Post Podcast - http://https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-fix-it-in-post/id1312089256 For more content like this visit http://www.noamkroll.com

This week on the show, my guest is none other than Joshua Caldwell. While Josh has been working on some higher profile projects over the past few years - including his upcoming feature Southland (starring Bella Thorne) and his 2017 feature Negative - his success began with a simple $6000 micro-budget indie, titled Layover.Over the course of our discussion, Josh outlines why he chose to take the DIY path, and how he broke with convention to make his micro-budget debut stand out from the crowd. He shares how he leveraged his success with Layover to land a directing job for Hulu, and later went on to direct several more feature films over the course of just a few short years. We touch on his philosophy on filmmaking, his approach to the creative process, advice for up and coming filmmakers, and much more.Links from the show -Layover On iTunes - https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/layover/id1102592500Layover On Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Layover-Natalie-Fay/dp/B01GKOUYKK/Joshua’s Website - www.Joshua-Caldwell.

On this week’s episode, I am joined by Cory Reeder of Renaissance Man Productions. Cory’s path is unlike any other filmmaker I have met - After building a successful career in Orange County working in the music scene, he moved to Los Angeles and started over from scratch. This meant taking work as a PA before he could climb his way back up to the role of director & producer full time.Cory’s tenacity has led him to find amazing success with his work, which has involved creating music video content for some incredible rock bands. Jonathan Davis (Korn), Seether, Of Mice & Men, and Five Finger Death Punch are just a few of the amazing groups he’s worked with in recent years. Over the course of this interview we chat about Cory’s unique career path, his production work, advice for filmmakers, and his involvement with the Easterseals disability challenge - An organization that promotes the involvement of disabled individuals in front of and behind the camera.Links from the show: Cory’s Website - https://www

For this week’s interview, I am joined by Josh Stifter - An incredibly talented, multi-faceted filmmaker who recently appeared on Robert Rodriguez’s Rebel Without A Crew Series. As part of the show, Josh was given $7000 and 14 days to make a feature film with no crew… And he pulled it off.Over the course of our discussion, Josh outlines his experience making his movie under such unusual circumstances, and the many lessons learned along the way. From there, we discuss the importance of embracing the creative process, what it’s like to leave your 40 hour a week job to pursue filmmaking full time, the business side of being a filmmaker, and much more.Links from the show:http://joshstifter.comhttp://www.facebook.com/joshua.j.stifterhttp://instagram.com/flushstudioshttp://twitter.com/joshstifterhttp://patreon.com/flushstudioshttp://youtube.com/flushstudiosFor more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com 

If you work in post-production (or just love great movies), chances are you've come across Vashi Nedomansky's work. He an acclaimed ACE editor who has not only cut 11 feature films, but was also tasked with creating the post workflows for Deadpool and David Fincher's Gone Girl.Throughout our conversation, Vashi and I cover a whole lot of ground - Starting from the very first few jobs he booked after retiring from professional hockey, all the way through to lessons learned after two decades in the business. We touch on the common pitfalls that plague many editors today, the critical importance of sound, philosophical and career advice for filmmakers, and so much more. This one is a must listen for all filmmakers!Links from the show:Vashi's WebsiteVashi on TwitterVashi on FacebookVashi on InstagramVashi on LinkedInVashi on YouTubeVashi on IMDBFor more content like this visit www.noamkroll.com