In this eye-opening episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, host Jason Brubaker sits down with film producer Tom Malloy to answer one of the most pressing questions for filmmakers: How do you finance a movie?
With over $25 million raised for multiple feature films, Tom lays down a simple yet profound principle that took him many years to grasp fully: "Improve the Project."
This mantra encapsulates the many elements that go into securing financing for your film.
From attaching well-known actors to acquiring initial development funds, Tom outlines the key steps you need to take to make your project irresistible to investors.

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Welcome to the Filmmaking Stuff podcast with Tom Malloy, an action-packed podcast where we share filmmaking tips and strategies! In a fast-paced digital age where traditional release windows are now complex due to the rise of VOD (Video on Demand) platforms, filmmakers need a robust strategy to maximize their movie's revenue. Dive in as we decode various VOD platforms and the significant role they play in a movie's distribution strategy.In this episode, we explore the concept of 'windowing', a release schedule one must follow. Violating this pattern can negatively affect the potential for monetizing your movie. We delve into the intricacies of these windows and why it's crucial not to "break" them. For instance, if you release on Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD) such as Fandango or Apple TV first and then aim to release it in theaters, it's not going to work. Once a window is opened, you cannot retreat.We demystify the three types of VOD - TVOD, SVOD (Subscription-based VOD - e.g., Netflix), and AVOD (Ad-based VOD - e.g., Youtube). Each type serves a different function and can impact your movie's distribution and profits differently.We also share insights on the possible mistakes filmmakers make when releasing films on these platforms, emphasizing the need for sequential release (windowing) rather than simultaneous release across all platforms (shotgunning). By following a targeted windowed release pattern, filmmakers have the potential to maximize revenue on every platform.Whether you're working with a sales agent, distributor, or self-distributing, understanding these release patterns is paramount to your film's profitability. So set on a journey with us as we navigate the complex world of VOD distribution in the Filmmaking Stuff podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for interesting stories, tips, and tactics that will help push your filmmaking boundaries!

The 3 Types of VOD Platforms Every Filmmaker Must Know

Welcome to another episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, with your host, Tom Malloy. In this action-packed episode, Tom shares the three most common movie pitch mistakes that could ruin your chances of securing funds for your project. He emphasizes the critical importance of pitching to investors and provides actionable tactics to avoid potential pitfalls.Tom shares his experiences from hundreds of pitch meetings, highlighting the importance of knowing your investor, preparing your project, and maintaining high energy throughout the pitch. Providing practical examples, Tom discusses the challenge filmmakers face when they're unaware of their investors' interests and preferences, or when they pitch an unprepared project.Tom lays bare the often-overlooked importance of energy levels during the movie pitch process. He explains why a low-energy pitch can kill the deal, even with a solid project. He discusses the crucial importance of maintaining enthusiasm and passion during your pitch so that the investor feels your excitement and shares in your vision.Tom encourages you to master the art of pitching, as this can secure the funding your film deserves. Remember to check out the Filmmaking Stuff podcast for more tips, tactics, and inspiring stories in your filmmaking journey.

3 Pitch Mistakes that will Tank your Movie (and how to avoid them)

In this empowering episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, seasoned filmmaker Tom Malloy shares his experience over two decades ago when his script was held hostage by an unscrupulous producer. He details the deception, the broken promises, and the eventual tough decision that saw him take control of his script and destiny.
Tom opens up about his early days as a young actor and budding filmmaker, falling prey to a manipulative producer who was all promises but short on action. This producer quickly became the executor of his script's fate, wreathing himself around it like it was his own. He had control over casting, execution, and even production. But the saga ended in deceit, leaving Tom with precious lessons on contracts and undermining his creative vision.
The heart of the story is Tom's shift in mindset. In the face of disappointment, he found resilience, picking himself up and reorienting his focus towards achieving his dream. He shares the liberating moment when he reclaimed his intellectual property, released his grip on lost opportunities and walked away from false alliances.
Tom, now an emblem of DIY filmmaking in Hollywood, tells how he channeled his painful experiences into a horror film script titled "The Attic", which later featured big-name stars. His journey underscores the importance of staying true to oneself and understanding that all one needs to kickstart an ambitious project is a determined mindset and one's existing resources.The episode is an encouraging cheer to filmmakers dealing with setbacks and a testament to how setbacks can reposition one's trajectory upward.
This episode is a must-listen for filmmakers at any stage, especially those who've given control of their film to a producer. Also for those looking to get started, this episode provides a reservoir of motivation to overcome fears and self-doubt. It compellingly shows that no budget or famous cast is required to kickstart one's filmmaking journey.
So why not pull up a chair, listen in and get ignited for your next filmmaking adventure? Happy listening!

Rejection to Producer: How I Broke Free and Made My Own Film

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, host Tom Malloy explains the often misunderstood process of screenwriting. Dispelling the myth that a screenplay is ready after the first draft, Malloy tells new screenwriters that industry executives demand polished scripts reflecting professional standards. The first completion of your screenplay is just the rough 'garbage' draft. Now comes the hard work of rewriting and polishing it.
Malloy compares screenwriting to sculpturing. The first draft is just a big rock. Your task then is to shape this into a recognizable form in the rewrite, and then go back a third time to add defining details in the polishing phase. These make up the real first draft. An understanding of this process is paramount for all screenwriters, even the most celebrated and successful ones. They do not simply type 'The End' and then send off their work. They rewrite and polish.
Beware of the danger of sharing your 'garbage' draft with others. You only get one chance to impress; people are generally unwilling to dedicate extra time to reread your script. Your polished screenplay is what opens doors in Hollywood. So, make sure your first read counts.
For more tips on transforming your initial draft into a market-ready script, follow the Filmmaking Stuff podcast. And remember, the journey to creating a great screenplay requires grit, patience, and continuous honing of your craft. Give every read your best shot!
And for more information on Screenwriting, go to: https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/write-your-screenplay-info/

From First Draft to Film-Ready: Perfecting Your Screenplay

Join host Tom Malloy in this episode of the "Filmmaking Stuff" podcast for essential tips on how to get your film featured in top industry trade publications like Variety, Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline. Discover the power of press releases, the importance of timing, and how knowing the right people can make all the difference.
Whether you're an independent filmmaker or an industry veteran, learn how to boost your career by making sure the right people see your work.
Don't miss out on practical advice for getting your film the attention it deserves in the competitive world of cinema. Subscribe for more insights and take the steps to make your movie now!

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