WHY YOUR INDIE FILM SHOULD BE BETWEEN $150k to $300k

WHY YOUR INDIE FILM SHOULD BE BETWEEN $150k to $300k

Most indie films, especially dramas, crime thrillers, horror, faith-based, and some action films, can be produced within a budget range of $150,000 to $300,000.

When writing, we often don’t have the budget in mind. However, if you’re serious and realistic about making a film, you should aim for this budget range. As a first-time or second-time filmmaker, it’s unlikely that anyone will give you a million dollars for your project. If you don’t have extremely wealthy connections, it will be even more challenging. So, keep it simple and achievable!

Film Investors

Here’s a simplified breakdown of film investors:

On average, a single investment unit (points for investors) costs $3,000. With 50 investors contributing $3,000 each, a filmmaker can raise $150,000. For a $300,000 film, the investment per unit doubles to $6,000, but still only requires 50 investors.

This $3,000 to $6,000 investment range is more manageable for most people, making it a more attractive and accessible option for indie film investors. It allows filmmakers to tap into a larger pool of potential investors without imposing significant financial strain on individual contributors.

If the thought of asking someone for $3,000 to $6,000 intimidates you, partner with someone experienced in sales! Perhaps your cousin is a car salesperson or you have an aunt in real estate. These people pitch buyers every day – they are machines. You most likely won’t get an established producer on board, as they are working on their own films. So, do the work yourself!

As always, it’s essential to consult with an entertainment attorney and accountant to navigate the legal and financial aspects of indie film production.

Here are some important things that this budget range will help you accomplish:

1. SAG Cast – Aim for recognizable faces. You can’t afford big names yet, but you can afford a familiar face. Your goal should be to have 1-3 recognizable actors in your film.
2. Distribution – You’ll have enough in the budget for distribution deliverables. These are mandatory files and third-party costs that a sales agency or distribution company will require. Most indie films run out of money during post-production or deliverables, so make sure to account for this in your budget.
3. Development Funds – Focus on development funds first, which are usually 5%-10% of your total projected budget. This amount is sufficient to hire an entertainment attorney to legally structure your business to accept funds, a line producer for an accurate film budget and shooting schedule, attaching an actor, obtaining sales projections, and creating your pitch deck package.

If you’re ready for a pitching package, including a film budget, pitch deck, and spec poster, or consultation, feel free to reach out to me directly via direct message or email at filmproducertx@gmail.com.