Roadmap to a $700,000 Film

ROADMAP TO A $700,000 FILM

$700,000 is by far my favorite budget range for an indie film! You can achieve so much at this level. This is a more personal post because I’m currently packaging two $700,000 films: one is a horror project, and the other is a Christmas family comedy. Your goal should be to create a film worthy of a limited theatrical release, ideally with a same-day Video-on-Demand (VOD) release to maximize sales.

Development Funds

The first step is securing development funds—your startup capital. I typically budget 5% to 10% of the total budget for development. For a $700,000 film, this means between $35,000 and $75,000, depending on the genre. This money is used to hire an entertainment attorney, create sales projections, retain your lead cast, and attach a producer capable of bridging financing. You can even split investments into two phases: one for development funds and another for the full production budget.

Script Notes

For a $700,000 budget, your script should be no longer than 100 pages. Every page has a cost, and expenses add up fast. Keep the story contained—this budget allows for a tightly coordinated action film, high-end horror with substantial SFX, or a slapstick comedy. Focus on scenes you can feature in the movie trailer—these will be your selling points. If necessary, trim roles to keep costs manageable. Aim for no more than 25 speaking roles. Plan for a shooting schedule of 18–21 days at most. Write for locations you already have access to—spaces that are affordable, pre-dressed, and visually compelling.

Actors

To increase your chances of breaking even, you’ll need at least two well-known actors. SAG-AFTRA’s Schedule F allows you to hire marketable actors for $80,000, whether they’re on set for one day or the entire shoot. This is a big expense for a $700,000 budget, but it’s essential. For films in the $300,000–$700,000 range, SAG’s Moderate Budget Agreement applies. The day rate is $421 for an 8-hour shift, but overtime adds up quickly. On top of wages, you must account for 21% for health and pension contributions, state payroll taxes ranging from 18%–21%, and a $70 daily per diem for meals and expenses. Additionally, SAG actors must be paid through a payroll company—you cannot classify them as independent contractors.

Crew

To make this work, your key crew members must become partners in the project. For me, that includes my Director of Photography, who owns an 8K camera, a 3-ton grip and lighting truck, and all the necessary cinematic tools. My editor also keeps post-production costs reasonable, and for my horror project, I rely on an SFX artist. Other crew members will receive fair day rates, but leveraging partnerships with key collaborators is crucial for keeping costs in check.

Producers

At this budget level, partnering with a financing producer is non-negotiable. While I can handle projects under $300,000, a $700,000 production requires someone who can bring serious energy to funding, casting, and securing better distribution deals. Financing producers come with a fee, but their value is undeniable—they can leapfrog your career.

Funding

Raising $700,000—whether through 50 investor units of $14,000 each or fewer investors—isn’t easy. Ideally, aim for one or two major investors. If your state doesn’t offer film incentives at this budget level, consider shooting in a state that does. Diversify your funding sources by incorporating up to 5% from crowdfunding, 5% from product placement, and 5% from fiscal sponsorship. If you can secure a pre-sale in the foreign market, even better!

Distribution

Your film should be designed for a limited theatrical release, starting with 10–35 theaters. If needed, use four-walling to get your foot in the door. If the film performs well, you can leverage its success to partner with a smaller theater chain. Set aside at least 10% of your budget for marketing, press, and promotions. Don’t underestimate the value of behind-the-scenes content—hire someone to capture BTS footage and still photography during production. Once the film is complete, creating a strong trailer should be your top priority. A compelling trailer can test the market, attract distributors, and even secure additional funding.

Take Action!

Are you ready to work with a professional Line Producer who has managed over $6 million in production funds and specializes in crafting film budgets and business plans for $700,000 films? Let’s bring your screenplay to life! Contact me at info@filmbusinessplan.com to hire me and order a professional pitching package that includes a comprehensive film business plan, detailed budget, and distribution strategy. Take the next big step toward getting your screenplay onto a movie set.

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