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The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

Filmmaking Stuff 300 Episodes Aug 12, 2026

Filmmaking Stuff is the professional resource for entrepreneurial filmmakers, providing tactics on film producing, film funding, and film distribution.

Episodes

Before Day One: The Business of Making a Movie
Before Day One: The Business of Making a Movie Aug 12, 2026 233 What business decisions should an indie film producer make before day one on set? In this episode, we break down the big-picture decisions that can determine whether your movie has a real shot in the marketplace—from the script and budget to genre, audience, cast, tax incentives, distribution, and your path to revenue. Because producing a successful indie film isn't just about making the movie. It
The Five-Minute Sell Test for Indie Films
The Five-Minute Sell Test for Indie Films Aug 5, 2026 193 Can you tell if an indie film will sell in the first five minutes? In this episode, Tom Malloy explains the key signals distributors and sales agents look for during a pitch—from your hook and artwork to your trailer and marketing plan. Learn how to present your project like a professional and dramatically improve your chances of getting meetings, offers, and distribution.
Will AI Replace Filmmakers?
Will AI Replace Filmmakers? Jul 29, 2026 205 Will AI replace filmmakers? In this episode of Hollywood Business Explained, I break down why I believe AI will become one of the biggest tools filmmakers have—not their replacement. We look at past technology shifts, where AI stands today, and what independent filmmakers should really be preparing for as the industry evolves.
The First 3 Things Distributors Look At (It's NOT Your Movie)
The First 3 Things Distributors Look At (It's NOT Your Movie) Jul 22, 2026 203 What makes a distributor say "yes" to an indie film? In this episode of Hollywood Business Explained, Tom Malloy breaks down the real acquisition process and the three things distributors often evaluate before they ever watch your movie: your artwork, your pitch, and your trailer. Learn how to make a stronger first impression, avoid common mistakes, and increase your chances of landing a distribut
The Economics of Making a Movie
The Economics of Making a Movie Jul 15, 2026 221 How does the money actually flow through an independent film? In this episode of the Filmmaking Stuff Podcast, Tom Malloy explains the economics of filmmaking, including production budgets, above-the-line and below-the-line costs, sales agent fees, investor recoupment, and profit waterfalls. If you want to better understand the business side of making movies, this episode provides a practical, rea
The Truth About Star Power in Independent Film
The Truth About Star Power in Independent Film Jul 8, 2026 172 Do movie stars still sell movies? In this episode, Tom Malloy explains how distributors and international buyers really evaluate cast value, why only a small percentage of actors actually move the needle, and how filmmakers can avoid overpaying for talent that doesn't increase sales. Learn the practical process sales agents use to estimate an actor's true market value before you cast your next fil
Why Some $100K Films Succeed—and Most Don't
Why Some $100K Films Succeed—and Most Don't Jul 1, 2026 232 Can a $100,000 indie film make money? In this episode, I break down the realities of today's micro-budget film business, why distribution matters as much as production, and what separates profitable indie films from the ones that never earn their investment back. If you're planning a low-budget feature, this episode will help you make smarter decisions before you roll the camera.
Film Financing Myths That Are Costing You Investors
Film Financing Myths That Are Costing You Investors Jun 24, 2026 215 In this episode, Tom Malloy breaks down some of the biggest myths and realities of raising money for movies. From whether a great script can raise financing to the truth about film festivals, wealthy investors, and chasing the success of breakout indie hits, you'll learn what actually matters when trying to get a film funded. A practical, no-nonsense look at film financing from someone who has spe
The New Rules of Indie Film Financing (Most Filmmakers Miss This)
The New Rules of Indie Film Financing (Most Filmmakers Miss This) Jun 17, 2026 280 The indie film financing landscape has changed dramatically. In this episode, I break down the new rules filmmakers need to understand before raising money, including realistic revenue projections, changing international sales, budget sizing, marketable elements, and why educating yourself on actual film revenues can make the difference between a fundable project and a fantasy.
What Film Buyers Actually Want
What Film Buyers Actually Want Jun 10, 2026 189 What do film buyers really want? In this episode, I break down what buyers are looking for at major film markets like Cannes, AFM, and EFM. From cast and genre to marketable concepts and international appeal, you'll learn how buyers evaluate movies and what gives a film the best chance of landing distribution deals around the world. If you're making an indie film, this is information you need befo
AVOD, Theaters, and the Future of Independent Film
AVOD, Theaters, and the Future of Independent Film Jun 3, 2026 217 Film distribution is always changing, and filmmakers who ignore those changes do so at their own risk. In this episode, Tom Malloy discusses the rise of AVOD platforms like Tubi, the shifting revenue landscape for independent films, signs of a theatrical resurgence, and why attending film markets and talking with other filmmakers can give you a competitive edge. Learn how to spot distribution tren
Why Most Indie Films Fail to Find an Audience
Why Most Indie Films Fail to Find an Audience May 28, 2026 213 Why do so many indie films fail to find an audience? In this episode, I break down the biggest reasons independent films struggle after release, including oversaturated marketplaces, weak marketing strategies, ineffective artwork and trailers, and relying too heavily on distributors. You'll learn practical ways to improve your film marketing, reach the right audience, and give your movie a better

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