Show Don't Tell: Micro-Budget Filmmaking

Latest Episodes:

Directing NBA Legend Kevin Garnett With Documentary Filmmaker Daniel B. Levin Dec 02, 2021

Show notes

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 - Twitter
Daniel B. Levin - Website
Blowback Productions - Instagram
Blowback Productions - Facebook
Blowback Productions - Twitter
Blowback Productions - Website
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Directing Netflix Movies & Major Network Television With DGA Director Mike Rohl Nov 19, 2021

Show notes

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 - Website
Mike Rohl - Instagram
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Vashi Nedomansky, ACE On Designing Micro-Budget Post-Production Workflows Oct 24, 2021

Show notes

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.
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Selling A Bootstrapped Documentary To Vice With Filmmaker Nick Scown Sep 16, 2021

Show notes

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 Website
Nick Scown - Twitter
Nick Scown - Instagram
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Shooting a $30,000 Feature Film In 12 Days With Director Marc A Hutchins Sep 10, 2021

Show notes

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 - Website
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Crafting The Perfect Musical Score With Composer & Filmmaker Martin Blasick Aug 28, 2021

Show notes

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 - Website
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Emmy Award Winner Chris Gierowski On Micro-Budget Feature Film Producing, Broadcast News & More Aug 28, 2021

Show notes

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.
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Genre Filmmaking: Why Horror, Sci-Fi, and Thriller Films Create The Perfect Launch Pad For Micro-Budget Feature Filmmakers Jul 30, 2021

Show notes

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.
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From Crowdfunding a Teaser To Selling Out Theatrical Screenings With Co-Directors John C. Lyons and Dorota Swies Jul 30, 2021

Show notes

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 - Website
Get a free exhibit pass to the 2021 NAB Show by visiting bit.ly/21NABShow and using code BA03 at checkout.
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Filmmaker & Slamdance Co-Founder Dan Mirvish On Landing Fundraising, Securing Actors, Navigating Festivals, And Making An Impact With Your I Jul 23, 2021

Show notes

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 - Twitter
Dan Mirvish - Instagram
Dan Mirvish - Facebook
The Cheerful Subversive's Guide To Independent Filmmaking - Amazon
The Backlot - Free 7 Day Trial
Get a free exhibit pass to the 2021 NAB Show by visiting bit.ly/21NABShow and using code BA03 at checkout.
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