How to Make An Independent Film: A Guide for Filmmakers

Want to make an independent film but don’t know where to start?

When I was a kid, I dreamed of making my own movies. And when one of my friends got a camcorder, we made everything from comedies to horror films to Star Trek parodies. Or at least we tried. After all, we had no idea what we were doing! Things like scripts and cinematography were as foreign to us as could be.

And though those days are far behind me, I’ve never lost that love for movie-making or the excitement it brings. I’ve been fortunate enough to gain first-hand experience as an on-set writer and actor on mainstream film sets and indie movies – and if I’ve learned anything, it’s that regardless of the budget level, if you want to make a good movie, you have to do it right.

In the past year, I also went through the entire process of making an independent feature film along with my team at Brimstone Pictures, our film production company. I wrote the screenplay, co-directed the film, and even starred in the movie as the Devil (I love playing the bad guy – that’s me in the trailer below!). It was an exhausting experience, but I learned a lot about indie filmmaking, and I couldn’t be prouder of the finished movie!

In fact, you can check out the trailer for our movie below:

I’m a teacher at heart, and I love to help new indie filmmakers create their films. That’s why I wrote this article! Here, I’ll share some of the most important things that I think you need to know to make your indie film a success. My experience making Spin the Wheel taught me so much about independent filmmaking, and I’m so happy to be able to share them with you here!

So, whether you’re making feature films, a documentary, or a short film, we’ll cover everything from finding funding and writing a script to film production management to shooting, editing, and marketing your movie.

So, if you’re ready to make your indie film dreams a reality, keep reading!

How to Make An Independent Film

OK, we’re going to go through each step that you’re going to take when you make your film. Let’s start at the very beginning!

1: Decide On The Story

Every film, whether it’s a blockbuster or a heartwarming indie, starts with a story that someone, somewhere, felt a burning need to tell. So, if you’re gearing up to make your own film, the first thing you’ve got to do is figure out what story has been simmering inside you.

Where to Find Your Story

• Your Own Tales: Sometimes, the stories that hit hardest are the ones we’ve lived ourselves. Think about those moments in your life that made you laugh, cry, or scream. There’s a good chance others will feel the same way.
• Borrowing Brilliance: Ever read a book or watched a play and thought, “This would be epic on the big screen!”? Well, why not make it happen? Just ensure you’ve got the rights, or that it’s up for grabs in the public domain.
• Fresh and New: Got a brand-new idea keeping you up at night? Dive in and start fleshing it out. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of creating something entirely original.

No matter where you start, the key is to find a story that gets your heart racing and will do the same for your audience. And if you’re feeling a bit stuck, grab a coffee with a friend who’s as film-crazy as you are. A fresh perspective can work wonders when brainstorming.

The AI Assist

In today’s world, AI story generators and AI script generators are excellent tools for creative people who need some help to get ideas for a great movie plot. By inputting a few key details, you can get an AI story generator to spit out a wholly original and unique storyline that you can use as the basis for your next project.

In addition to being a great source of inspiration, AI story generators can also help you save time by doing the heavy lifting regarding plot development. The script generators, on the other hand, are specialized to helping with creative screenplays. While I would never suggest just using a script generator to write your entire script for you, they can be super helpful in some aspects.

2: Write The Script

Once you’ve decided to make an indie film, the next step in pre-production is to write the script or hire someone to write it for you.

DIY Screenwriting

If you’re going to write the script yourself, you’ll need to consider the story, characters, and dialogue. Here are some specifics to think about:

• The Heart of the Story: What’s the core message or emotion you want to convey? This is your film’s heartbeat.
• Your Cast of Characters: Who’s driving your story? Think about their desires, fears, and quirks.
• Challenges and Triumphs: Every great story has hurdles. What stands in your characters’ way, and how do they overcome them?
• The Grand Finale: How does it all wrap up? Think about the final emotions and messages you want to leave with your audience.
• Map Out Your Story Outline: Consider creating a story beat outline to ensure you’ve got a clear path from start to finish.

Answering these questions will help you to develop a clear and concise original screenplay. Don’t forget to get the best keyboard and laptop for writers when you start writing your screenplay!

Polishing and Perfecting

Once you’ve got your script down, it’s time for some fine-tuning:

• Additional Essentials: Alongside your script, you’ll want a snappy logline, a detailed synopsis, and maybe even a treatment or outline. These are your script’s best friends and can be invaluable when pitching your film.
• The Right Tools: Make sure you’re using top-notch screenwriting software. Proper formatting isn’t just to make your script look professional – it also makes that script easier for potential investors, producers, and actors to read and work with.
• Feedback Time: Before you shout “Action!”, get some eyes on your script. Consider hiring a script consultant to give you detailed feedback. They’ll help you spot plot holes, character inconsistencies, or dialogue that might need work.

If writing isn’t your thing, that’s ok! Hiring a scriptwriter can be a game-changer. Just make sure you find someone you can connect with, and who understands your director’s vision. Interview a few people, discuss your story, and pick someone who feels right.

Enter Competitions

After writing the script, you could try entering it into some screenplay competitions. You’ll get a feel for how your script stacks up compared to others, and some contests will even give brief notes on the script for free. Others allow you to pay for more detailed feedback.

Participating in competitions and the valuable feedback they offer has proven immensely beneficial in developing my own original screenplays.

3: Secure Film Funding

Ah, the age-old challenge of every filmmaker: getting the funds to bring your vision to life. Let’s be real – while making a film is an art, funding it is a whole other game!

When talking about film financing, we’re referring to the cash or promised cash pooled together to get your film off the ground. This money can come from many places: maybe a studio believes in your idea, perhaps a wealthy friend wants to chip in, or you’ve found a grant that fits your film’s theme or your demographic. It’s all about ensuring you have the money to cover everything from the first script draft to the movie premiere.

Here’s the thing: your film’s budget touches everything. It’s not just about getting that fancy high-quality camera. It’s about paying your crew, ensuring you’ve got enough days to shoot, and making sure you can promote your film once it’s done. Plus, if you’ve got a decent budget, you might just catch the eye of a top-tier actor or director.

Where to Find Film Financing

While big Hollywood flicks have money to burn, indie films like yours have to be a bit craftier. Here are some ways to get that cash flowing:

1. Private Investors: Think of folks or businesses ready to back your film, hoping they’ll see a return.
2. Venture Capital & Film Financing Companies: These guys offer different funding methods, like gap financing.
3. Angel Investors: Kind souls who believe in your project and want to help.
4. Co-Production: Teaming up with another producer to split the costs.
5. Crowdfunding: Sites like IndieGoGo and Kickstarter let you rally support from fans.
6. Product Placement and Sponsorships: Get a brand in your film, and they might just pay for it.
7. Nonprofit Partnerships: Team up with a charity that vibes with your film’s message.
8. Pre-Sales from Distribution Companies: Lock in a distribution deal, and you might get some cash upfront.
9. Grants: Free money! But you’ve got to find the right fit.
10. Self-Funding: Digging into your own pockets. It’s risky, but sometimes it’s the only way to go.

4. Find Your Cast and Crew

The Role of the Producer

A producer is a key member of an indie film crew, typically responsible for everything from organizing people and equipment to securing money and permits. Whether this role is something you want to take on yourself or rely on someone else to provide – that’s up to you.

But if this is your first movie, be aware that producing films is an art form that relies on project management, people skills, and filmmaking experience. So, learn as much as possible about indie film production if you do it yourself!

Now that you’ve written your script and found a producer who believes in your vision, it’s time to assemble your cast and crew.

Hiring Your Cast & Crew

This is often one of the most challenging steps in the pre-production filmmaking process, as you need to find people who are not only talented but also willing to work for little or no money.

• Open Auditions & Meetings: Host a get-together where you can share your vision and see who’s on board. It’s like speed dating for filmmakers!
• Network, Network, Network: Got indie filmmaker friends? Ask around! Personal recommendations can be gold. They’re like treasure troves of talent waiting to be discovered.
• Online Hustle: Dive into the digital world. Social media, job boards, and indie filmmaker forums can be great places to scout for talent.
• Film Festivals & Industry Events: Another way to find potential collaborators is to attend film festivals and film industry events. These provide an opportunity to meet a variety of professional filmmakers, learn about their projects, and find common ground.

Once you’ve connected with some potential collaborators, the next step is to assess their skills and see if they’re a good fit for your project. Make sure that you get along well and that the people you choose are excited about the film’s vision. Remember that even the most talented filmmaker, actor, or crewmember will not be a good fit for every project.

Now that you’ve assembled your team, it’s time to start making your independent film!

5: Pre-Production – What To Do

Few things in life are as rewarding as seeing your creative vision come to life on the big screen! So, while the pre-production technical details may not be the most fun part of making an independent film, they are very important!

Key Elements of Pre-Production:

• Location Scouting: Finding the perfect backdrop for your scenes. Whether it’s a bustling city street or a serene forest, the right location can make or break your scene!
• Shooting Script: This is your script on steroids. It’s detailed, broken down for shooting, and is the director’s bible on set. It will detail each shot that the director wants – such as if it’s a wide shot, narrow shot, over-the-shoulder shot, etc.
• Scheduling: Timing is everything. A well-planned shooting schedule ensures you maximize your days on set.
• Gear Up: From cameras and mics to film lighting and props, you’ll need the right tools to bring your vision to life. And don’t forget about green screens for special effects shots!
• Permits & Paperwork: Filmmaking is fun, but it’s also serious business. Ensure you have all the necessary permits to shoot, especially if you’re filming in public spaces.

While it may seem like a lot of tedious work (and it is!), planning for your shoot correctly will pay off in the end. If you take care of all the logistical details ahead of time safely and legally, you’ll be able to focus on what really matters – making your movie.

6: Production – How to Film

So now you’ve got your script polished, funds in place, and a team raring to go. Now comes the fun part: bringing your vision to life on film. Let’s dive into the heart of the filmmaking process: production.

Setting the Stage for Success

Before the director shouts “Action!”, there’s a lot of groundwork to be laid. Here’s how to set the stage for a seamless shoot:

• Revisit Your Pre-Production Notes: Go over your storyboards, shot lists, and schedules. You’ll need these throughout the production process.
• Locations Check: From a sun-kissed beach to a gritty alleyway, ensure your locations are locked in and ready for the crew. Always keep your establishing shots in mind when picking locations.
• Gear Check: From cameras to microphones, double-check all your equipment. A technical glitch can throw a wrench in the best-laid plans.

Managing the Cast and Crew

Your crew is the backbone of your production. Here’s how to ensure everyone’s in sync:

• Daily Briefings: Start each day with a team huddle. Discuss the day’s goals, address any concerns, and set the tone for a productive shoot.
• Roles and Responsibilities: Ensure everyone knows their tasks for the day. From the lighting crew to the makeup artists, clarity is key.
• Open Communication: Foster an environment where the crew feels comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. Collaboration can lead to unexpected moments of brilliance.

Directing with Passion

As the director, you’ll have many roles during production. Here are a few of the most important ones:

• Engage with Your Actors: Understand their interpretations of the characters and guide them to align with your vision.
• Monitor the Details: Keep an eye on the background, props, and costumes. Consistency across shots is crucial.
• Stay Adaptable: While it’s essential to stick to the plan, be open to improvisation. Some of the moments that add the most production value are unscripted.

The Technical Side

Filmmaking is as much about technology as it is about storytelling:

• Lighting Matters: Understand the nuances of lighting. It can set the mood, highlight crucial elements, and transform a scene.
• Good Sound is Key: Invest in quality sound equipment and monitor it closely. Audiences might forgive a blurry shot, but they won’t overlook poor sound.
• Camera Techniques: Experiment with angles, movements, and lenses. Your camera is your paintbrush, so wield it with creativity.

Once you’ve captured the final shot, take a moment to celebrate with your crew. But remember, the journey isn’t over. Next is post-production, where your raw footage will be molded into a complete film!

7: Post-Production – How to Edit

One of the most critical steps in making a movie is post-production, when you edit your film. Here are some tips on how to effectively edit your film:

Step One: First, you’ll need an effective and reliable editing program (or, these days, an AI video editing program!) to assemble and work on your raw footage. There are several different platforms on which you can edit your film, each with pros and cons, depending on what you’re looking for, so do your due diligence and find the right editing software for you.

Step Two: Watch your raw footage multiple times and take notes on what works and doesn’t. This will help you identify the best takes from each portion of each scene and which scenes need to be cut or shortened.

Step Three: Start putting together a rough cut of your film using the editing software. Don’t worry about making it perfect at this stage – get the basic structure down first.

Step Four: Once you have a rough cut, it’s time to start fine-tuning. Editing is the process of selecting the best takes and the best sections of each take and assembling them into a cohesive whole. Being selective in video editing is essential, as too much footage can make your film feel disjointed and unfocused. You’ll also want to pay attention to the flow of your edits, making sure that each cut makes sense in the context of the scene and in terms of continuity and narrative flow.

Step Five: Get feedback on your post-production rough cut from trusted friends and fellow filmmakers when possible. Fine-tuning takes time, and others may see errors or areas requiring change that you didn’t. Remember, the goal of the editing process is a professional-looking movie.

Step Six: Once you’ve edited your footage, you must add music, Foley, sound effects, and/or visual effects. This can help set the mood and tone of your film and make certain scenes more impactful. You may also need to do some ADR voice-over work if it’s hard to hear the dialogue in any scenes. If you’re not experienced with composing, finding music, sound effects, or creating digital visual effects, plenty of online resources can help you. You can even use an AI music generator, which can take your style input and create unique music for you!

Step Seven: Next, you’ll need to finalize the look of your film. This includes color correction, adding titles and credits, and anything else that will make your film look its best. You may also want to add some stock video footage to your film, as it will allow you to enhance your visual storytelling while staying within your budget constraints. Your editing program should be able to help you with these tasks as well.

Step Eight: Finally, once you’re happy with your film’s appearance, it’s time to export it and share it with the world!

Step Nine: If your video production quality is not quite the level you’d like it to be, you can always use AI video upscaling software to make your indie film footage look 4K and amazing!

Alternatively, if it’s within your budget, you could hire a professional film editor to do all these steps for you!

8: Marketing and Promotion

After dedicating countless hours to writing, shooting, and editing your very own movie, it’s time to consider the most effective ways to connect with your potential audience. Let’s explore some friendly and practical strategies to engage viewers.

The Press Kit

All major marketing campaigns for a movie will include a press kit! Think of a press kit as your film’s resume. You’ll want to include the following:

• Synopsis: A concise, compelling summary of your film’s plot.
• Production Stills: Visuals that capture the essence and mood of your film.
• Cast and Crew Bios: Introduce the talented folks behind and in front of the camera.
• Contact Info: Make it easy for the press, distributors, and fans to reach out to you.

Identify Your Audience

Your film might be a masterpiece, but it needs to find its tribe. Consider the following:

• Know Your Audience: Who would love your film? Is it teens, horror enthusiasts, or documentary buffs? Pinpoint your target demographic.
• Strategic Screenings: Consider international film festivals, special previews, or partnerships with relevant organizations to get your film in front of the right eyes.
• Engage and Interact: Host Q&A sessions, engage in film forums, or even pop into Reddit threads to discuss your film.

Build a Digital Empire

In today’s interconnected world, an online presence well before the release date of the film is non-negotiable for marketing your film.

• Website: Set up a sleek, user-friendly website for your film. This will be the hub for all things related to your project.
• Social Media: Create accounts on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Share behind-the-scenes content and trailers, and engage with fans.
• Podcast: After your film’s release, consider appearing on relevant podcasts. It’s a fantastic way to reach niche audiences and discuss your film’s themes and inspirations.
• Legacy Media: Try to get coverage through your local paper, TV, or radio stations. There are still lots of people who tune into traditional media.

9: Get Your Film Into Film Festivals

You’ve done it! After countless hours, sleepless nights, and a rollercoaster of emotions, your film is ready to see the light of day. But the journey doesn’t end with the final cut. Now, it’s time to introduce your cinematic baby to the world, and what better way than through international film festivals? Let’s dive into the ins and outs of getting your film festival-ready.

Why Film Festivals Matter to Indie Filmmakers

Film festivals are more than just red carpets and glitzy premieres. They’re a great platform for first-time filmmakers to:

• Showcase Their Work: It’s an opportunity to get your film in front of an audience that appreciates indie cinema.
• Network: Rub shoulders with film industry professionals, fellow filmmakers, and potential film distributors.
• Gain Credibility: A selection or win at a reputable festival can significantly boost your film’s profile.

Film Festival Strategy

Getting into a good film festival isn’t just about luck; it’s about strategy:

• Know Your Festivals: Not all festivals are created equal. Research festivals that cater to your film’s genre or theme. Whether it’s a horror-specific festival or one focusing on documentaries, find your niche.
• Budget Wisely: Festival entry fees can add up. Prioritize festivals that align best with your film’s vision and audience.
• Deadlines and Details: Keep a calendar of submission deadlines. Early bird submissions often come with discounted fees. Ensure your submission package is polished, complete, and adheres to the festival’s guidelines.
• Presentation Matters: Consider investing in professional artwork, posters, and a compelling trailer. First impressions count.

Handle Rejections Gracefully

Let’s face it – rejection is part of the game. But remember:

• Stay Positive: Every filmmaker, no matter how renowned, has faced rejection. It’s not a reflection of your talent.
• Gather Feedback: Some festivals offer feedback. Use it constructively to refine your film or approach.
• Keep the Faith: Believe in your film’s message and vision. The right festival is out there, waiting for your submission.

10: Distribution

You’ve dreamt, scripted, shot, edited, and now you’re ready to share your indie masterpiece with the world. But how do you ensure your film doesn’t just gather digital dust on a hard drive? Enter the world of film distribution. Let’s explore the avenues to get your film the audience it deserves.

The Power of Film Festivals

We’ve touched on this above, but it’s worth reiterating:

• Industry Exposure: Festivals are frequented by film industry professionals, critics, and distributors. A successful festival run can open doors to larger audiences and potential distribution deals.
• Networking: Beyond the screenings, festivals offer a chance to connect with fellow filmmakers, share experiences, and maybe even find collaborators for future projects.
• Building Buzz: Winning awards, getting great reviews, or even just positive word-of-mouth can significantly boost your film’s profile.

Digital Platforms

The digital age has democratized film distribution:

• Streaming Giants: Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Tubi are always on the lookout for fresh content. While it’s competitive, they offer a vast audience reach.
• Direct to Audience: Websites like YouTube or Vimeo allow you to upload your film and reach viewers directly. If you’ve built a strong online presence or have a niche audience, this can be a goldmine.
• Pay-Per-View and Rentals: Platforms like Vimeo On Demand let you set a price for viewers to access your film, providing a potential revenue stream.

Self-Distribution

For those who like to take the reins and be their own film distributor:

• Independent Screenings: Rent out local theaters or community centers for screenings. It’s a great way to engage with local audiences and generate buzz.
• Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram to promote your film, engage with fans, and announce screening dates or online releases.
• Merchandising: Selling DVDs, Blu-rays, or even themed merchandise can be a source of revenue and promotion.

Traditional Distribution

While the landscape is evolving, traditional distribution channels still hold weight:

• Distribution Companies: These firms have the networks and resources to get your great film into theaters, on TV, or into retail outlets. A solid festival run or a compelling pitch can get you a foot in the door.
• Sales Agents: These are individuals or firms that specialize in selling films to distributors. They can be invaluable if you’re unfamiliar with the distribution landscape.

What Is an Independent Film?

An independent film is a movie that is produced outside of the traditional Hollywood studio system.

Independent films are usually made with independent financing, meaning they are not beholden to the major studios and can take risks that the studios wouldn’t usually take. They can be made by smaller, independent studios or by individual filmmakers. This results in independent films often having a more unique vision than studio films.

Independent cinema also features movies that are typically smaller in scope than studio films, which makes them more intimate and personal. Because of this, independent films often capture a different perspective than what is typically seen in mainstream cinema.

Whether or not you’re a fan of independent films, there’s no denying that they play an essential role in the film industry. By taking risks and telling stories that are outside the mainstream major studios, independent filmmakers help to broaden the range of stories that we see on screen.

In capturing this indie spirit, they remind us there is more to cinema than blockbuster hits and big-budget special effects!

The History of Independent Film

Although independent filmmaking has been around for decades, it has only recently begun to receive the attention it deserves.

In the past, indie films were often seen as inferior to studio productions, but that is no longer true. Thanks to independent filmmakers’ efforts, audiences can now enjoy a broader range of movies than ever before.

Also, thanks to technological advances, it is now easier than ever for independent filmmakers to get their movies made and distributed. As a result, there has been a surge in the number of well-known examples of indie movies. Some of the most popular indie movies include The Blair Witch Project, Napoleon Dynamite, and Juno. These low-budget films, created by independent film companies, have all been highly successful, both critically and commercially.

Independent filmmakers have the freedom to tell their own unique and personal stories, free from conforming to the Hollywood standard. As a result, indie movies tend to be more innovative and experimental than traditional Hollywood films. Many of these independent films also find favor among mainstream audiences, if they are distributed widely enough or receive critical acclaim (or have a killer social media campaign!).

That’s why independent filmmaking is predicted to keep gaining popularity in the years ahead.

Well-Known Examples of Indie Movies

Many indie movies have become well-known over the years.

One example is The Blair Witch Project. The movie was made on a shoestring budget of $60,000 (est.) and became a huge success, earning over $250 million at the box office.

Another well-known independent movie is Juno. The movie was made for just $7 million and grossed over $140 million worldwide. These are just two examples of how indie movies can be huge successes.

Many other indie movies have also gained popularity, such as Napoleon Dynamite, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Paranormal Activity, and Little Miss Sunshine. These movies prove that indie films can be both popular and profitable!

And remember, a successful indie film doesn’t have to be a feature film. It can also be a short film, and many indie short films have found audiences worldwide, and some have even led to feature film adaptations. Notable examples include Alive in Joburg, THX-1138, and Lights Out.

My own indie short, Boneyard Racers, was made on a shoestring budget of $500. Despite the tiny price tag, it won many awards worldwide, from Best Film to Acting, Cinematography, and Soundtrack honors. It also found distribution on ShortsTV!

You can check out the trailer for Boneyard Racers below!

Wrap Up

So, if you’re passionate about film and are ready to start making your own movies, heed these tips to help make the process as smooth and successful as possible.

With a bit of hard work and perseverance, you’ll be on your way to creating a film that is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and styles – you never know what might work best for your project. Just remember, the sky’s the limit when it comes to film.

Happy filming!

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