The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

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/

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!

Tune into the latest episode of the "Filmmaking Stuff" podcast with host Tom Malloy as we dive into the tricky waters of following trends in the film industry. Discover why trying to jump on the latest movie trend might not be the best strategy and how timing is everything. Learn from stories shared by industry veterans about the highs and lows of chasing the next big thing and why sometimes, creating your own unique path could lead to greater success. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insights on staying ahead in the fast-paced world of cinema. Don't forget to subscribe for more tips and stories to inspire your next film project.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Filmmaking Stuff podcast. In this episode, we are delving into the world of creating brilliant micro-budget films. Our host, Tom Malloy, shares insights on how can you make your movie stand out, even with a limited budget. Citing examples from successful low-budget films like 'Blair Witch Project' and 'Paranormal Activity', Malloy discusses the importance of bringing a unique perspective to your movie. He emphasizes the opportunity to experiment and innovate when working with a micro-budget, highlighting a recently made film 'Skinnamarink' as an example of uniqueness in storytelling. Consequently, this uniqueness can happen when filmmakers take familiar concepts and tweak them a little, creating something entirely special and distinct. Moreover, Malloy asserts that filmmaking should never compromise on quality, regardless of budget constraints. Relating his personal experiences on co-financing three micro-budget movies, he encourages the dedication to improve the script and tell a good story from the ground up. In addition to this, he introduces his video series 'The Backyard Blockbuster Blueprint', which provides tips on making a low-budget film look like it costs much more than it actually does. He addresses common misconceptions regarding micro-budget films, reaffirming their potential to be full-fledged feature films, rather than just minimalist productions. He concludes the podcast episode with a call-to-action to all filmmakers: focus on creating movies you're proud of, irrespective of the budget size. That, according to him, is the true formula for making a micro-budget film that truly shines. 📌 Check Out the "Backyard Blockbuster Blueprint" Series: https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/backyard-blockbuster-blueprint-info/

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast, host Tom Malloy discusses the potential market and the inherent value of producing short films. Tom explains that the value of short films isn't necessarily about profit. Instead, short films present an opportunity to gain experience and create a 'calling card' as a filmmaker. Aspiring directors should approach their short films like a test run or a teaser of their intended feature films. The genre should reflect that of the intended feature film, allowing audiences to gauge the director's aptitude in a specific area. However, Tom warns against investing heavily in these mediums, suggesting that such funds could be better invested in a feature film. Moreover, Tom shares key marketing strategies for short films, like leveraging film festivals and using popular platforms like YouTube. He also highlights the benefits of presenting a consistent genre throughout, thus helping potential investors visualize the intended feature film. Despite limited income avenues, the true profit of short films lies in kickstarting and enriching one's filmmaking career. He concludes that filmmakers should graduate from short films and aims at producing feature films, where more sustainable profit lies. A short film, therefore, serves as a stepping stone towards that goal, and its fundraising should resonate with this objective. Tune into this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff podcast to gain insightful filmmaking knowledge and strategies from seasoned professional, Tom Malloy. Key Highlights: 📌 Check Out the "Backyard Blockbuster Blueprint" Series: https://www.filmmakingstuffhq.com/backyard-blockbuster-blueprint-info/

Every filmmaker has a unique story to tell. If you're wondering how to bring your vision to the screen, this episode is for you. We'll guide you through the process, from initial concept to final cut, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to create a film that truly resonates.

So you want to make money in movies? It's not just about the glitz and glamour. In this episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of turning your passion for film into a profitable venture.

Do NOT send out your screenplay with grammatical mistakes! It signals to the reader that you’re an amateur and you haven’t put the effort into your writing.

Dive deep into the heart of cinema with "Behind the Screens: Unveiling EFM 2024," your essential podcast episode for exclusive insights and highlights from the European Film Market in Berlin. This episode brings you closer to the pulse of the film industry, providing a comprehensive recap of the most prestigious marketplace for movie rights, production, and distribution. We transport listeners directly to the bustling halls of the Berlinale, offering a front-row seat to the latest trends, groundbreaking deals, and emerging talents shaping the future of film.

You want to take the first step in making your movie. What is it? What is the absolute first thing you must to do get things moving?

Laurels - the logo with the little branches that advertise what film festival you’ve been in. Do Laurels Help on a movie poster? Do they help with marketing the movie in general?

When is a film “Real”? That’s a buzz word that a lot of people in the industry use when a film is actually greenlit and moving forward. Today we’re talking about when you can finally call a film “real.”

Unlock the truth behind the Sundance Film Festival dream in this eye-opening episode of The Filmmaking Stuff podcast. Join host Tom Malloy as he exposes 'The Sundance Lie,' unraveling the myths surrounding indie filmmakers' aspirations. Discover the harsh realities, unexpected twists, and the lottery-like odds of gaining recognition at Sundance. Learn why banking on this festival as a shortcut to success is a risky business plan and explore smarter strategies for film markets. Subscribe now for actionable tips and inspiring stories on making your movie a reality. Take action and make your movie now!

Ever think about investing in movies? Ever wonder what movie investors want? In this episode on film funding, we're all about investing in low-budget movies. Join us as we lay out straightforward tips, tactics, and support for anyone interested in putting their money into indie films. It doesn't matter if you're just starting in film investing or looking for backers for your next project. We've packed this episode with actionable advice to help your investment journey go smoothly. We’ll dive into the strategies for evaluating film potential, mitigating risks, and the truth about movie profits. Get ready to unlock the secrets of film investing in the dynamic, creative world of indie movies.

How do I find a distributor for my movie? That's the question we get a lot. And in this episode, movie producer Tom Malloy shares simple, yet effective tips on finding the right film distributor for your movie. Tom highlights the need to know what makes your movie special and to look for distributors who are interested in that type of film. He recommends the importance of attending of markets and how to network with distributors and sales agents. Give this a listen, and make sure to share it with a filmmaker friend.

In this Filmmaking Stuff Podcast episode, you'll learn the essentials of producing a movie with the leanest team possible. Tom Malloy takes you through filming a simple scene like a family dinner, demonstrating how you can achieve cinematic quality regardless of your budget. You'll understand the importance of critical roles such as the director-cum-camera operator and audio, and how to handle lighting effectively even with minimal hands on deck. This episode is about maximizing efficiency and quality with a skeleton crew, teaching you to focus on what matters - the final product on screen. Ideal for filmmakers working with tight budgets, this session will equip you with practical skills and insights to make your film project a success.

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, 'Simply Selling Your Film,' you'll discover the essentials for successfully marketing and selling your independent film. Learn how choosing a marketable genre and maintaining a realistic budget can significantly impact your film's success. Understand how having a recognizable cast or influencers can enhance your film's appeal and marketability. You'll also uncover the crucial role a compelling script plays in attracting a strong and talented team. I'll guide you through the intricacies of navigating prominent film markets like the American Film Market and the European Film Market. These platforms are vital for connecting with sales agents and distributors. This episode is tailored for indie filmmakers like you seeking to sell your film efficiently and effectively.

In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, we explore the steps needed to build trust with movie investors. We'll tackle the harsh truth about film investments - there's no guarantee of financial returns. I'll share my insights on how promising a quality film, rather than surefire profits, forms the bedrock of trust. We'll discuss strategies for your first film, the importance of partnering with seasoned producers, and how to avoid over-promising. This episode is packed with real-world advice for filmmakers at any level who want to approach film financing with honesty and integrity. Let's explore how to make your movie dreams real.

Join Tom Malloy in this eye-opening episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, where we dive into the revolutionary world of micro-budget filmmaking. We're unveiling the Backyard Blockbuster Blueprint – a game-changing approach that empowers indie filmmakers to create extraordinary films without the hefty budget. Discover practical tips, insider tactics, and the secrets behind making your film stand out in today's competitive market. Whether you're a first-time filmmaker or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights to transform your filmmaking journey. Tune in to unlock the potential of micro-budget movies and start making your cinematic dreams a reality

Join Tom Malloy as he breaks down his top three lessons from this year's American Film Market. Get the inside scoop on what's new in indie film, from funding to getting your movie out there and making connections that count. Whether you're making your first film or your fifth, tune in to get the real deal on making movies today.