Napkin Budget, Tubi Stars, and Proof of Concept
ROADMAP TO A $75K FILM
This is the last of my SAG indie film low-budget series. This budget range will test your will and creativity – definitely not for the meek. It all comes down to personal relationships. You can still work with SAG but use it for one lead actor. At this budget range, you can still use both union and non-union actors. Try to cast actors who’ve played lead roles in successful Tubi films.
This is what I call a “napkin” film budget – you budget in bulk! Plan for a 7–10 day shoot.
SCRIPT NOTES
Write and film in one massive location that has multiple angles and setups, and never feels boring. A contained script. Think of a cabin in the woods, a ranch, or an abandoned hospital. Three lead roles tops.
CREW
You don’t need an army, you need special forces. A small band of experienced key crew. Offer points to crew members who bring massive value and resources: a DP with their own equipment, an editor who can turn around post quickly, an SFX makeup genius, or a producer who can get distribution.
PRODUCER
On this film, the producer has to wear many hats—Line Producer, Production Coordinator, Locations, etc. But more importantly, they need to reach out and talk to distribution sales agents. If the concept and pre-existing audience are strong enough, you might even get a minimum guarantee that covers one-third to one-half of the budget.
FUNDING
Partner with a non-profit to raise quick development funds to cover your entertainment attorney. You still need legal paperwork. Break your budget into 50 investor units at $1,500 each. Every filmmaker should be able to raise $75K if they are serious—no excuses. Use crowdfunding to raise any additional funds after you wrap, and while filming, capture BTS stills, mini-docs, interviews, teaser clips, etc.
DISTRIBUTION
While filming, think of the trailer—that is priority number one. Get an amazing graphic designer for your posters. Budget for items like DCPs, subtitling, and promotional materials. Once you have a trailer, share it with your distribution sales agents and take their notes seriously. They know what sells.
PROOF OF CONCEPT
This is the time to be resourceful and creative. I’ve done proof of concepts for as low as $300 to $1,500. You can create micro-videos to test your film and experiment on TikTok, YouTube, etc. Focus on high-end photo stills and clips you can showcase to sales agents and your audience.
TAKE ACTION
At this budget range, most filmmakers are going to have to figure it out—some will learn the hard way. But if you want a real assessment and a business plan that focuses on distribution, contact me immediately before you start shooting.
Shoot me an email at filmproducertx@gmail.com
