Check Out https://www.helpthemseefoundation.org

Garrett and Daren break down the real differences between a spec script written on speculation, no limits, showcase your voice and a production script written to be made, budget-aware, strategic. They cover when to write each, why treatments can sometimes be a smarter move, and how leverage shifts depending on your role as writer or filmmaker. Plus: updates on fall festivals and Garrett’s third act grind on Where the Dog Heals.

Spec = calling card. Written to showcase voice and originality; leverage lives in story resonance.
Production = blueprint. Written to be made; leverage comes from feasibility, attachments, and momentum.
Treatments are better then specs (often). Easier for producers to read, faster to generate, clearer story signal.
Constraints unlock creativity.  Small cast/locations can make indie projects viable.
Leverage compounds. Small production scripts can open doors Nolan, Gerwig paths.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Festival season & October plans
03:00 Defining spec vs. production scripts
10:00 Budget/scope realities
16:00 Portfolio specs vs. existing IP
22:00 Production scripts as blueprints
31:00 Camera direction dos & don’ts
35:00 Why treatments often win
47:00 Case studies: Nolan & Gerwig
54:00 Garrett’s Where the Dog Heals update
59:00 Audience-building & leverage

“A spec is imagination first; a production script is logistics first.”

Subscribe, comment your questions on writing specs vs. production scripts, and share this episode with a fellow filmmaker.

Navigating The Development Process in Indie Filmmaking with Joel Ackerman

This episode of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, which aids filmmakers in creating impactful feature films. Hosts Daren and Garrett welcome special guest Joel Ackerman, a seasoned development expert known for his work on viral ads like Poopourri and projects with Angel Studios. Discussion topics include the role of development in film, overcoming common pitfalls in scripts, and the importance of receiving and integrating feedback. Joel shares experiences from his illustrious career, including working with Susie Cameron and navigating development 'hell.' The conversation also touches on the journey from script to screen, with insights on maintaining passion and recognizing when to move on from a project. The episode concludes with updates on ongoing projects and the importance of consistent progress in filmmaking.

00:00 S3 EP03 | Audio
26:37 Marker

Demystifying Sizzles: Crafting Effective Proofs of Concept

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith explore the purpose and execution of 'sizzles' or 'proofs of concept' in the independent film world. Sponsored by the Help Them See Foundation, the discussion covers how sizzles can serve to attract investors, cast, and distributors, and even assist in early marketing efforts. Garrett shares his own experiences with budgeted and low-cost sizzles, emphasizing the importance of preparation and intention behind creating them. Daren adds insights on leveraging these tools for effective marketing and the potential impacts of using AI-generated content. The episode wraps up with practical advice on making sizzles part of the development process and using them to build audience interest well before a film’s release.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:27 Welcome to Season Three
00:56 Casual Banter and Film-Related Shirts
02:50 Today's Topic: The Sizzle
03:17 Garrett's Script Writing Update
07:04 Deep Dive into Sizzles
10:35 The Purpose and Value of Sizzles
15:02 Budgeting and Development for Sizzles
21:20 Creating a Sizzle Reel: Key Elements and Execution
22:04 Using Scripts and Story Elements in Sizzle Reels
23:14 Budget Considerations for Sizzle Reels
24:22 Alternative Approaches: AI and Lookbooks
25:41 The Importance of Consistency in Sizzle Reels
29:30 Practical Tips for Shooting Sizzle Reels
31:02 Marketing Your Film from Day One
32:30 Balancing Hype and Realism in Film Promotion
35:48 Final Thoughts on Sizzle Reels

Sponsored by The Help Them See Foundation: https://www.helpthemseefoundation.org

In this episode of Truly Independent, supported by the Help Them See Foundation, Daren and the host discuss the transition into Season 3, focusing on pre-production and scriptwriting. Starting from the writing process and different techniques, they share updates on their individual projects. Daren introduces his new project 'Where the Dog Heals', inspired by a true story about a dog diagnosed with cancer and its journey of faith and healing. He talks about his scriptwriting process, including the use of AI as a creative tool, research trips for authentic storytelling, and managing balancing writing and production constraints. The episode also touches upon exciting upcoming projects and the role of faith and community support in filmmaking.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

01:02 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans

01:31 Focus of Season Three: Pre-Production and Writing

02:02 Transition from Season Two to Season Three

02:38 Documenting the Script Writing Process

03:20 New Project: Where the Dog Heals

08:31 Importance of the Script in Filmmaking

09:54 Story Development Techniques

16:37 Using a Story Matrix for Writing

18:31 Balancing Writing and Production Constraints

20:26 Budget Considerations for Writers

21:53 Research and Location Scouting

26:30 Collaborative Writing Process

30:05 Using AI in Screenwriting

35:49 Upcoming Projects and Season Preview

AI-Generated Content and Storytelling: Navigating the Landscape of Independent Filmmaking

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the implications of AI-generated TV shows for independent filmmakers, focusing on Fable's Showrunner app. They explore the challenges and opportunities that AI content may bring to the indie film industry and how storytellers can stand out amidst the increasing 'noise.' The episode also reflects on the successes and shortcomings of recent summer blockbusters, 'Fantastic Four' and 'Superman,' highlighting the importance of story and emotional connection in filmmaking. Finally, they share updates on their upcoming projects, including Garrett's new feature film, 'Where the Dog Heals,' and Darren's proof of concept project.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:46 Catching Up on Faith of Angels
01:19 Main Topic: AI in Filmmaking
02:33 Understanding Fable and Showrunner
04:14 Impact on Indie Filmmakers
04:49 Focus, Meaning, and Action
16:01 Current Projects and Future Plans
20:28 Exciting New Project and Team Formation
20:43 Fundraising and Production Updates
21:20 Exploring Filming Locations
22:03 Discussing Summer Blockbusters
22:28 Fantastic Four vs. Superman: A Deep Dive
24:47 Director's Influence on Film Success
28:13 The Importance of Story in Movies
32:28 Season Finale Reflections and Future Plans
36:56 Thank You and Farewell

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome independent filmmaker Graham Northrup. Graham shares his fascinating journey from being a theater educator to becoming an independent filmmaker. He discusses his decision to leave his theater career during the COVID-19 pandemic, his process of self-education in filmmaking, and the production of his debut feature film 'An Aspen Christmas Conspiracy.' The conversation covers the challenges of fundraising, production logistics, and distribution. Graham offers insights into the importance of networking, leveraging local resources, and the invaluable support of a dedicated crew. With his first feature nearly ready for distribution, Graham reflects on his goals and future plans in filmmaking.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter

01:10 Introducing the Guest: Graham Northrup

02:22 Graham's Journey from Theater to Film

03:31 Transitioning to Filmmaking During COVID

04:23 Learning the Craft: From Photography to Film School

06:08 Setting Goals in the Film Industry

10:59 First Feature Film: An Aspen Christmas Conspiracy

15:43 The Challenges of Fundraising

16:52 Securing a Fiscal Sponsor

17:28 Raising Money Through Donations and Grants

18:08 Low Budget Production Strategies

19:12 Shooting Schedule and Crew Dynamics

19:51 The Importance of a Dedicated Crew

20:39 Balancing Directorial and Cinematographic Priorities

21:25 Navigating Distribution Deals

24:22 Lessons Learned and Future Projects

28:12 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking. They introduce guest Greg Beckers, a talent manager turned producer and distributor, who shares insights into the business side of filmmaking. Greg talks about the importance of LinkedIn for networking, the challenges in talent management, the intricacies of film sales and distribution, and strategies for indie filmmakers to attach talent and recoup investments. The episode also touches on the changing genre preferences of distributors and the significance of effective marketing and sales strategies.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:34 Meet Our Guest: Greg Beckers

01:21 Greg's Journey into Talent Management

03:17 The Role of a Talent Manager

05:54 Navigating the Indie Film Industry

10:31 From Talent Management to Producing

12:10 The Challenges of Film Distribution

15:51 Mindset Shift: From Talent Manager to Producer

16:17 The Chaos of Producing

16:43 Skills from Talent Management

17:18 The Importance of Problem Solving

17:33 The Value of Business Experience

17:54 Passion for Films and Filmmaking

20:57 Challenges in Distribution

22:11 The Importance of Trailers

28:26 Navigating Distribution Deals

32:02 Connecting with Greg Becker

33:31 Conclusion and Future Plans

Discovering Independent Film with Bryan Louzil of Mometu

 @freemometu  
@mometucollegefilmfest
eventbrite.com/e/1475275411469?aff=oddtcreator

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith are joined by guest Bryan Louzil, co-founder of Mometu, a streaming platform focused on hand-curated independent films. Bryan shares his fascinating upbringing in the film industry, the journey of creating Mometu, and how the platform aims to support independent filmmakers by offering a marketplace free of algorithms. They discuss the intricacies of promoting films, insights for filmmakers on gaining visibility, and the unique Mometu College Film Festival. Emphasizing the importance of personalizing the viewer experience, Brian explains the benefits of setting up creative marketing strategies from the start to benefit both the platform and filmmakers. The episode wraps up with an overview of Mometu social media strategies and the launch of their new podcast, 'The More For Me and You,' dedicated to sharing the journeys of individuals in the entertainment industry.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:25 Meet Brian Louzil
01:19 Brian's Background in Film
03:18 The Birth of Mometu
05:46 Hand-Curated Content on Mometu
09:01 Supporting Independent Filmmakers
22:19 Mometu College Film Festival
24:05 Red Carpet Interviews and Screenings
24:34 Exciting Awards and Prizes
25:52 Supporting Independent Filmmakers
28:52 Challenges and Trends in Filmmaking
30:15 Connecting with Audiences
32:46 Mometu's Social Media Strategy
34:25 The More For Me and You Podcast
37:31 Exploring Mometu Film Library
38:45 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Creating a $10,000 Short Film: A Truly Independent Journey

Does an iPhone have what it takes to shoot a professional film?

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss their recent project, a short film funded with a $10,000 budget, filmed using iPhones. They delve into the inspiration behind the project, their approach to working with a minimal budget, and the logistics of shooting 16 pages in a single day. The discussion covers the importance of maintaining a student mentality, the value of creative problem-solving, and the benefits and challenges of using unconventional filmmaking techniques. They also address the broader implications of working with limited finances and how it impacts future projects and industry standards. The episode concludes with insights into the collaborative process, the importance of relationship-building, and encouraging audience feedback on maximizing a $10,000 budget for short films.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:27 Catching Up After the Holiday
01:15 Exciting New Project Announcement
01:33 The $10K iPhone Short Film Challenge
01:57 The Creative Process and Experimentation
10:49 Building the Team and Production Details
19:34 Lessons Learned and Future Implications
27:16 Client's Marketing Strategy for Short Films
27:40 The Evolution of Production Value
28:52 Practical Tips for Independent Filmmakers
29:43 Prepping for a Successful Shoot
32:17 Challenges and Solutions on Set
38:27 Balancing Budget and Quality
46:22 The Future of Low-Budget Filmmaking
50:14 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome guest McKay Stevens to discuss the creative and practical processes behind independent filmmaking. The conversation covers McKay's project 'Apocalypse Sasquatch', the importance of passion and understanding client needs when pitching, and real-life insights into navigating development phases. They reminisce about previous collaborations, such as the teaser for the film 'Carpenter', and share strategies for maintaining momentum and motivation during development periods. Throughout the episode, they explore the balance between creative vision and client expectations, emphasizing the need to bring ideas to life through manageable milestones.

00:00 Introduction to Apocalypse Sasquatch

00:17 Welcome to Truly Independent

00:35 Meet the Hosts and Guest

01:38 McKay Stevens Joins the Conversation

03:39 Discussing Independent Filmmaking

05:55 Pitching and Producing TV Shows

09:11 The Art of Pitching

15:54 Balancing Passion and Client Needs

23:44 Development Mode and Procrastination

26:20 The Mystery of James Gunn

27:10 Development Mode and Passion Projects

28:39 Lessons from Apocalypse Sasquatch

32:43 The Value of Execution in Filmmaking

33:27 The Carpenter: A Case Study

35:24 Independent Filmmaking Mindset

39:43 Final Thoughts and Future Projects

44:05 Wrapping Up and Thank You