Show Don't Tell: Micro-budget Filmmaking

Today I am joined by filmmaking duo Brent Lydic and Tip Scarry, who are here to give us a behind the scenes look into their new feature film Spirit Quest.This micro-budget indie was made on a shoestring budget of just $7000 over the course of 14 shooting days. By taking an unconventional approach to production, Brent and Tip pulled off an impressive debut feature film that ultimately landed distribution with Gravitas, and is now widely available on VOD. Listen to the full episode for the entire breakdown, along with invaluable lessons learned at each step.Links from the show:Spirit Quest - AmazonSpirit Quest - iTunesSpirit Quest - InstagramSpirit Quest - FacebookFor more exclusive content like this, click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Today I am joined by writer/director Pete Ohs, here to give us a behind the scenes look into his latest feature film titled Youngstown.After debuting as a feature director with Everything Is Beautiful Far Away - a traditionally financed indie starring Julia Garner and Joseph Cross, Pete wanted to try a different approach. Despite the success of his first film (including distribution with The Orchard), the process wasn't what Pete was looking for. He wanted to make a movie that was more creatively freeing and fun, and this was only possible by scaling things down to a bare minimum. By financing the movie himself and acting as the entire crew, Pete was not only able to pull off a completed movie, but truly enjoy the process at every step. Throughout the interview Pete shares his journey at length - from his budget breakdown to the gear he used, and loads more.Links from the show:Pete Ohs - InstagramYoungstown - AmazonFor more exclusive content like this, click here to sign up for my newsletter.

In this episode I am joined by director Keon Hedayati, who is here to talk all about his debut feature film Karma Bums, which is now entering distribution.Despite a limited budget (under $100K), Keon was able to successfully craft a final product with the look, feel and polish of a high end studio feature. Throughout the discussion, Keon shares insight into how he achieved these kind of results by building the right team, taking them on cross-country road trip, and capturing lightning in a bottle. He also shares wild stories from set - from breaking bones during a fight scene to being shot at for filming - and how he overcame challenges at each step.Links from the show:Keon Hedayati - InstagramKeon Hedayati - TwitterFor more exclusive content like this, click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Today I am joined by filmmaker and host of the popular Crimson Engine YouTube channel, Rubidium Wu - who is currently in post-production for his latest feature film titled The Devil’s Fortune.Throughout the interview Rubidium shares a behind the scenes look into how he built his incredible YouTube Channel from the ground up, and how it serves as an asset in his feature filmmaking journey. He also touches on his distribution philosophy, editorial process, approach to working outside of LA, and loads more. This is a must listen for any filmmaker looking to use content creation as a means to bring their passion projects to life.Links from the show:Crimson Engine - YouTube ChannelCanon Masterclass - WebsiteFor more exclusive content like this every Sunday, click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Today I am joined by actor, author, filmmaker & entrepreneur Sara Quiriconi, to talk all about the intersection of business and creativity.Sara has found success across multiple mediums - from her renowned book titled Living Cancer Free to her popular blog, social media, and podcast channels. As a huge proponent of entrepreneurship and content creation for filmmakers, I was excited to have Sara on the show to unpack her experience at length.Throughout the episode she shares best practices for leveraging business to unleash your creativity, how to prioritize your creative pursuits, why you shouldn’t chase the perfect work-life balance, and so much more.Links from the show:Sara Quiriconi - InstagramSara Quiriconi - TwitterSara Quiriconi - YouTubeSara Quiriconi - WebsiteNever Settle - PodcastFor more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Joining me today is filmmaker Matthew Temple, who recently directed the documentary Hardball: The Girls of Summer, which was released by Vertical entertainment last year.Matthew also runs a great podcast, has written books on creativity, and holds workshops all over the world to help empower creatives. Naturally, all of this made for a great conversation that covers everything from creative blocks and how to overcome them, to the creative journey as a whole. He also speaks to his own experience balancing creativity with work, why he left a high paying job in Hollywood to go the independent route, and much more.Links from the show:Matthew Temple - WebsiteMatthew Temple - Production companyMatthew Temple - PodcastHardball - Movie WebsiteFor more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Today I am joined by the multi-talented Daniel B. Levin whose latest documentary Kevin Garnett: Anything is Possible just premiered on Showtime. You may also know Daniel from some of his other amazing documentary productions, like I Promise, which was executive produced by LeBron James and premiered at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival.Throughout the interview, Daniel and I take a deep dive into the world of documentary filmmaking, using his latest feature as a case study. Daniel generously shares his entire process from concept through production and distribution, outlining each critical phase at length. He also touches on what it was like serve as both co-director and cinematographer on the production, the gear that he used, his editorial process and workflow, and loads more.This is essential listening for all filmmakers, but especially those looking to break into the documentary space.Links from the show:Daniel B. Levin - Instagram Daniel B. Levin - TwitterDaniel B. Levin - WebsiteBlowback Productions - Insta

Joining me today is acclaimed DGA director Mike Rohl, who has had an amazing directorial career in both television and feature films. Most recently, Mike directed Vanessa Hudgens in The Princess Swap trilogy for Netflix, but is also known for directing countless episodes of Smallville, The Outer Limits, When Calls The Heart, and many other iconic television shows.Mike got his start making DIY movies back in film school, which ultimately led to his first big break directing network TV, and later led to his studio feature film work. Throughout the episode we discuss Mike’s journey at length - from his film school days to directing major motion pictures for Netflix, and everything in between. This episode is educational and inspiring for filmmakers at all levels, and I truly hope you all enjoy!Links from the show:Mike Rohl - WebsiteMike Rohl - InstagramFor more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

In this episode, I share a recent guest session recorded live in my filmmaking community (The Backlot), featuring acclaimed ACE editor Vashi Nedomansky.Vashi is an expert on post production workflows, having worked as a consultant on DEADPOOL, House of Cards, The Good Doctor, Sharknado 2, and countless other projects. He’s been on the podcast before, and his first interview was a fan favorite. This time around, he is here to break down best practices for optimizing your editorial approach and workflow, specifically through the lens of micro-budget filmmaking.For more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Today I’m joined by documentary filmmaker Nick Scown, whose feature documentary Too Soon: Comedy After 9/11 was just released through Vice and is now available nationwide. As Nick shares in the interview, what started as a bootstrapped DIY passion project ultimately evolved into a larger production that attracted a ton of incredible talent. Despite the humble beginnings of this project, Nick was able to attract subjects like Matthew Broderick, David Cross, Janeane Garofalo, Gilbert Gottfried, Marc Maron, Jeff Ross, and dozens of others, which made for an incredible story that is resonating with audiences far and wide. Our discussion covers Nick’s entire process from concept to final delivery, with special emphasis on the sales process to Vice, and their partnership with Nick. We also cover Nick’s tactical approach to the production, his strategy for booking name interviews, experiences with grant funding and much more. Links from the show:Too Soon Documentary - Movie WebsiteNick Scown - TwitterNick Scown - In

This week I am joined by filmmaker and film professor Marc A Hutchins, known for his directorial feature films Crossing Streets and Where Are You, Bobby Browning?After producing and directing numerous independent film titles - including a $300,000 feature - Marc decided to scale down his production approach and embrace the micro-budget realm. This resulted in the creation of a brand new feature film, shot for just $30,000 over the course of 12 days.Throughout the interview we chat about Marc’s philosophy on independent film, the benefits of working on a smaller canvas, what filmmakers can learn by teaching film, and much more.Links from the show:Alexander Films - WebsiteFor more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

In this episode I am joined by the amazingly talented Martin Blasick, who has worked in the film industry for years as a composer, music writer and music supervisor, and is now embracing the world of micro-budget feature filmmaking.Martin has contributed his work to countless film and television projects like Oceans 12, Magic Mike and The Newsroom- while also spearheading his own independent productions. Throughout our discussion, Martin shares his wisdom on all things music for film, giving listeners actionable tips for building the right soundscape for their movie - whether through original composition, library cues, or by licensing existing songs. This is a must listen for any filmmaker who understands the value of a powerful soundtrack.Links from the show:Martin Blasick - WebsiteFor more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

In the episode I am joined by filmmaker and KTLA journalist Chris Gierowski, here to share his unique approach to independent feature film producing.Over the last decade Chris has produced countless narrative films - from micro-budget shorts to underground features that have reached cult status - and has learned a lot along the way. Throughout the interview, Chris provides listeners with key insights into the world of indie film production, along with his personal philosophy and practical approach for bringing new projects to life. He also talks about balancing filmmaking with journalism, developing larger budget projects, dealing with piracy issues, and much more.For more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

In this solo episode, I share my in-depth thoughts on the merits of working in genre as a micro-budget filmmaker, and why horror, sci-fi, and thriller films often thrive on a smaller scale.Genre films offer some unique advantages to the micro-budget filmmaker, that make traditional obstacles (like securing name talent, prestige festival placement, and distribution) far less critical to the overall success of the film. Throughout the episode I discuss all of this and more, through the lens of my upcoming feature film Shell Shock, which has specifically been designed with these principles in mind.Get a free exhibit pass to the 2021 NAB Show by visiting bit.ly/21NABShow and using code BA03 at checkout.For more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter. 

Joining me for this episode are co-directors John C. Lyons and Dorota Swies, here to talk all about their brand new feature film Unearth.Unearth is a "fracking horror film" that was produced over the course of 8 years. What began as a successful crowdfunding campaign for a teaser, ultimately helped secure financing of nearly $1,000,000 for the full feature film. From there, the project attracted some known cast (Adrienne Barbeau and Marc Blucas), and landed distribution after premiering at the Fantasia film festival. It became the first feature film to sell out a theatrical show the Laemmle theaters in LA (post-pandemic), and is now widely available on DVD, VOD and other platforms. Hear about the entire journey from concept to distribution on this week's episode.Links from the show:Amazon direct: Unearth - Amazon AppleTV direct: Unearth - Apple TV For more information: Unearth - WebsiteGet a free exhibit pass to the 2021 NAB Show by visiting bit.ly/21NABShow and using code BA03 at checkout.For more content li

In this episode, I share a recent conversation with filmmaker and Slamdance co-founder Dan Mirvish, which originally took place during a private live session in The Backlot (my private filmmaking community).Throughout our discussion, Dan offers a masterclass in the practical realities of making a film. We discuss strategies for raising funds for your movie, securing known talent, bringing your vision to life, and so much more. Dan also shares his perspective on what film festivals and distributors look for in an indie film, and how filmmakers can increase their odds of success at each step. And finally, we touch on Dan’s new edition of his book (The Cheerful Subversive’s Guide To Independent Filmmaking), and some of the most important lessons embedded throughout.Links from the show:Dan Mirvish - TwitterDan Mirvish - InstagramDan Mirvish - FacebookThe Cheerful Subversive's Guide To Independent Filmmaking - AmazonThe Backlot - Free 7 Day TrialGet a free exhibit pass to the 2021 NAB Show by visiting bit.ly/21NAB

In this episode I’m joined by writer and producer Jonathan Kiefer, whose feature film Around The Sun premiered last month on Kanopy, and is now widely available on digital platforms everywhere.Around The Sun is an amazing example of what’s possible when you use available resources to reverse engineer a film concept. In Jonathan's case, he had access to an incredible French Chateau with a unique historical significance to the scientific community. This location served as the launching pad for an amazing story that ultimately attracted actors Cara Theobold (Downton Abbey), and Gethin Anthony (Game Of Thrones, Kodachrome, First Kill) to the project. Throughout the interview we delve into Jonathan’s process at length - from the development of the story to producing the film overseas, the release/distribution strategy, and much more.Links from the show:Around The Sun - WebsiteJonathan Kiefer - InstagramJonathan Kiefer - TwitterGet a free exhibit pass to the 2021 NAB Show by visiting bit.ly/21NABShow and using code

My guest today is Sam Mestman, CEO of We Make Movies - an incredible resource for indie filmmakers looking to take their work to the next level. Among many of the other initiatives currently in motion at WMM, Sam is running a filmmaking competition that will award several micro-budget filmmakers a $25,000 investment, plus exclusive access to high end professional post-production services like color grading, audio mixing, and deliverables.Throughout this episode we chat all about the competition, how it can benefit you as a filmmaker, and tips for improving your odds of acceptance. Sam has also generously offered members of my filmmaking community (The Backlot) free WMM memberships and fee waivers for their feature films. If you not yet a Backlot member, you can try it free for 7 days at www.noamkroll.comLinks from the show:We Make Movies - CompetitionThe Backlot - Free 7 Day TrialFor more content like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.

Joining me today is Director & DP Emily Skye, who you might also know as "She Wolf Films" on her incredibly popular Instagram account.Emily has been working in the film industry for 14 years, but recently her industry success has reached new heights. After building a massive fanbase for her work online, she created a short film called River. The short was so well received that within just 2 months it landed her financing for the feature length version.Throughout the interview we discuss what it’s like to simultaneously direct and DP your own film, and how doing so can open up some unique creative advantages. Emily speaks to the importance of building an audience for your work, and how her efforts in this area led to relationships with brands like Lumix and RED. We also discuss the challenges of working in the industry as a female filmmaker, and Emily even shares a story about having to walk off a DGA production after experiencing a harassment issue on set.All this and much more on today's episode.Links fr

This week on the show, I’m joined by screenwriter and producer Hudson Phillips to chat all about his new feature film This World Alone.This World Alone is a post-apocalyptic arthouse thriller about three women attempting to survive after a cataclysmic event leaves the Earth without technology or power. The film was shot for just $30,000 over the course of 10 days, with cast & crew living and working together under one roof in the North Georgia mountains. The film went on to have a successful festival run, picking up awards at countless festivals including the Oxford Film Festival and Phoenix Film Festival.Throughout our chat we take a deep dive into the creation and release of this awesome project, tackling everything from production to distribution and loads more. Enjoy!Links from the show:This World Alone - Movie WebsiteHudson Phillips WebsiteFor more like this click here to sign up for my newsletter.