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I usually talk to filmmakers at the end of their journey, when the film has been shot and released, but this week I thought it would be interesting to chat to two filmmakers at the very beginning of their journey. So I spoke to Andrew Klaus-Vineyard and Daniel Talbott who are about to shoot a feature documentary. Andrew has made a bunch of short films and Daniel has a background in theatre and  screenwriting on big shows like The Connors, The Big C and The Mist. In the chat I was able to ask them all the big questions about audience, where to watch it and how. We also talked about the project and what brought them both together. 

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

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HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#filmmakingpodcast #film #indiefilm #microbudget

Do you want to know what it takes to make your first feature film and get it released? Well I spoke to Mitchell Holliday and he's done just that with his debut film Murder Ballads: How to Make it in Rock 'n' Roll starring Simon Callow.  We talked about how he put the film together, how he convinced award winning actor Simon Callow to appear in the film and how he handled the sales and distribution process. He also told me about the advantages of having someone look after PR.

Watch Murder Ballads: How to Make it in Rock 'n' Roll on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0DV274447/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

A GREAT VIDEO TO WATCH NEXT: https://youtu.be/fzDqlniQwG0?si=RBOSZm71ForakPWl

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

  #filmmakingpodcast  #microbudget  #filmmaking 

This week on the podcast I chat to filmmaker Jake C. Young about his movies, how he funded them through Indiegogo, working with what you have and how he handled sales and distribution. He also told me about how he managed to release his film on Blu-ray through Makeflix.

Find out more about Jake and his movies: https://www.instagram.com/jakecyoung_official/

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#filmmakingpodcast #acting #moviemaking 

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by the incredibly dynamic Kerstin Schultze — fitness guru, trainer, actor, and performer. Kerstin’s journey began in competitive athletics, representing Germany in the Junior Olympics. After moving to the U.S., she transitioned into acting, landing roles that showcase both her physicality and charisma. Most recently, she appeared in a featured role on The Righteous Gemstones alongside Danny McBride and Walton Goggins.

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#filmmakingpodcast #filmmaking #moviemaking #filmmakerscommunity 

This week I’m joined by film Marketing Guru Jim Fredrick whose incredible body of work includes Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and Fantastic Beasts. Jim’s career spans some of the biggest blockbuster franchises, and in our conversation, he shares his insights on everything from cutting an unforgettable trailer to marketing your movie when you don’t have a studio-sized budget. We also dive into practical advice for indie filmmakers looking to break through in a crowded market. It’s an honest, insightful, and seriously useful chat you won’t want to miss.

Check out Jim's book Opening Weekend: An Insider's Look at Marketing Hollywood's Hits and Flops
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Opening-Weekend-Insiders-Marketing-Hollywoods/dp/1496853385#:~:text=In%20a%20world%20where%20movie,the%20realm%20of%20movie%20marketing.

After starting his career in 1983 as a trailer editor and producer at famed advertising boutique Intralink, Jim Fredrick went on to serve as president of marketing at Castle Rock Entertainment; senior vice-president of creative advertising at Warner Bros.; and executive vice-president of marketing at Sony Screen Gems. In 2011, he founded his own company, Jim Fredrick Motion Picture Marketing.

I was also brave enough to pitch The Apocalypse Box to Jim and find out how he would market it. 

Listen to the full episode then come back for Jims thoughts below on The Apocalypse Box trailer: 

Here's The Apocalypse Box Trailer:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7usA6qBjvk

Here's what Jim had to say:

Based on our conversation--and how audiences today react to trailers that are different--I'd suggest something more like the TOGETHER teaser:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb9tln--Ajs

Try getting away from the typical music used in horror trailers. Find a piece of music that is unexpected. It might even be counterpoint (ie. funny!) Limit dialogue. Maybe the only line is "What's in the box?" Then your title. By telling the consumer less, you'll raise curiosity, anticipation and your film will feel bigger in doing so.

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#filmmakingpodcast  #moviemaking #filmmakerscommunity

How do you get your independent film into cinemas without a sales agent? In this episode, filmmaker Marc Marriottreveals how he sold his debut feature Tokyo Cowboy directly to distributors—landing theatrical releases in both the U.S. and Japan.

Marc takes us through his filmmaking journey, from working under iconic Japanese director Yoji Yamada, to creating a bilingual comedy/drama that blends cultures and language. He shares how he raised the funding, directed a film in two languages, and navigated the challenges of working internationally.

Learn how Marc approached direct-to-distributor sales, his insider festival submission tips, and why building strong industry relationships matters more than ever. Plus, he offers game-changing advice for first-time feature filmmakers on how to lead confidently as a director.

If you’re looking to sell your indie film, break into international markets, or just want to learn more about indie film distribution, this episode is packed with real-world strategies and filmmaker wisdom.

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#podcast #nirvana  #creative #writingcommunity 

Have you ever wondered if you could write a book, maybe a biography? Well I spoke to Kelly Catlin who did just that. Inspired by a family tragedy she decided to write a book about Kurt Cobain and wrote "Kurt Cobain - Forever in Bloom". Her book, Kurt Cobain: Forever in Bloom, offers a fresh and sensitive take on one of music’s most iconic and misunderstood figures.

Whether you’re a Nirvana fan, an aspiring biographer, or just curious about the creative process, this episode is full of honest, heartfelt insights.

Check out Kellys book: https://a.co/d/4QeUCO3

Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide and the death of Kurt Cobain. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consider reaching out to a mental health professional or calling a suicide prevention hotline in your area. You're not alone.

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#filmmakingpodcast #moviemaking #filmmakerscommunity 

This Week on the Podcast: Making Feature Films for Under $10K with Sean and Taylor King

On this episode, I sit down with father-son filmmaking duo Sean and Taylor King, who have been consistently creating feature films on micro-budgets of under $10,000. Since starting in 2015, they’ve developed a streamlined production process that allows them to quickly move from one project to the next — and they’re currently working on their 20th feature film.

In addition to films, they've also produced TV shows that are distributed on Tubi via Filmhub and Amazon via Video Direct.

We dive into how they’ve built such a prolific body of work, how they maintain momentum, and what it’s like working together as a father and son team in the indie film world.

If you're interested in making your first feature film, learning more about low-budget filmmaking, or exploring the family dynamics of creative collaboration, this episode is for you.

Find out more about Sean and Taylor: https://newzealandsonfilms.com 

Marketing Matters: Posters, Titles, and Trailers

The Kings explain why your film’s poster and title are just as important as the movie itself. They use platforms like YouTube to test what visuals and names perform best—often before filming even starts. Strong artwork can attract attention, build intrigue, and boost your film’s streaming success.

Where to Release Your Film: Amazon, Tubi & More

Distribution doesn’t have to be a mystery. Sean and Taylor share their real-world experience using Filmhub and Amazon Video Direct to get their work on platforms like Tubi and Prime Video. They break down earnings, pricing strategies, and how to navigate the world of VOD as an indie creator.

Low-Budget Filmmaking Tips from the Trenches

From gear selection to casting choices, and even how they handle creative disagreements on set, this episode is loaded with advice. Whether you're starting your first film or looking to improve your DIY process, these lessons are must-hear. Sean and Taylor prove that with the right mindset, micro-budget films can reach big audiences.

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

 #filmmakingpodcast #moviemaking #movieproduction 

Is it possible to get your debut feature film into cinemas? This week, I spoke with first-time filmmaker Liam Calvert, who has done exactly that. His debut film, A Night Like This, secured distribution and was recently screened at BFI Flare. Made with the support of Southampton’s film charity, City Eye, his journey offers valuable insight into breaking into the industry.  

Find out more about 'A Night Like This' : https://www.liamcalvert.co.uk

Find out more about City Eye: https://www.city-eye.co.uk

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk

Send us Fan Mail

#moviemaking #indiefilm #movieproduction 

How to Get a Distributor to Fund Your Movie – Insights from Filmmaker Joseph Mbah

How do you get a distributor to fund your micro-budget movie? I sat down with filmmaker Joseph Mbah to find out.

Joseph has navigated the ups and downs of independent filmmaking. After a tough experience with sales and distribution on his first feature, he refined his approach. Now, he secures funding from private investors and even gets distributors to finance his films.

In our conversation, Joseph shared his step-by-step process—from where he started to how he built strong relationships with distributors. We also discussed:

• How he gets his films funded by distributors
• The role of visual effects in advancing his career
• The importance of artwork and trailers for streaming platforms
• How one of his films landed on Netflix (and how much they paid)

If you're an indie filmmaker looking to get your movie funded and distributed, this interview is packed with valuable insights. Let’s dive in—starting with Joseph’s journey into filmmaking.

Check out the re-release of Jim's first solo directing feature The Witches Hammer - out now on amazon 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/B0F235F4T8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Support the show

For regular updates and exclusive content - sign up for The Honest Filmmaker newsletter
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/e-newsletter/

Join The Honest Filmmaker community on our Facebook Group or Discord
https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk/index.php/join-the-community/

HONEST, OPEN ADVICE ABOUT YOUR FILMMAKING CAREER

Are you about to leave Uni with a filmmaking degree? Or want to change careers and work in a creative industry? We want to give you the tools you need to enter the real world of production or freelancing. Honest and open career advice from people in the business.

We also talk to those in other creative industries to discuss their careers, the potential cross over with film production and practical tips for a successful and fulfilling career.

Join the community: http://www.thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk