Nobody Is Coming to Finance Your Film - The Truth About Self-Financing Your Micro Budget Feature

A GREAT VIDEO TO WATCH NEXT: 00:00 Episode tease - acting or filmmaking? 00:17 Introduction to filmmaker Alex Alessi 00:35 How did Alex end up making a feature film? 02:46 Actor or filmmaker? Where's the line? 04:20 What about if someone gave you $100k? 05:33 Homebody - whats the story? 06:29 How was it financed and how much did it cost? 09:17 How long did it take Alex to decide to self finance? 14:01 Profit share with the cast and crew 14:13 Richard Kind - how do you get a name in your film? 18:06 How to approach an agent/manager 18:39 How Alex worked with Richard Kind 19:57 The trouble approaching big agents 20:28 Film festivals - Alex approach and strategy 24:38 The film festival minefield 25:00 Sales and distribution 28:24 Does Alex have a theme as a filmmaker? 29:38 What piece of advice would Alex give himself at the start of the project? Making your first feature film feels impossible... until someone actually does it. In this episode I'm joined by filmmaker Alex Alessi, writer and director of Homebody, to break down exactly how he self-financed his feature, convinced Richard Kind to join the cast, navigated film festivals and what he wishes he'd known before spending his own money on a movie. If you're trying to make your first feature, wondering whether to wait for funding or just start filming, this conversation is packed with practical advice from someone who's been through it. In this episode we cover: • Financing a micro budget feature • Self-funding vs waiting for investors • Profit sharing with cast and crew • Getting Richard Kind attached to an indie film • Working with agents and managers • Film festival strategy • Sales and distribution • Lessons learned making a first feature Whether you're making your first short, planning a debut feature, or trying to build a sustainable career in independent filmmaking, there's plenty here to learn. 👇 Let me know in the comments: Would you self-finance your first feature film? Watch the trailer for Homebody:    • Homebody Teaser Trailer   #filmmaking #indiefilm #microbudget #featurefilm #filmfestivals #screenwriting #indiefilmmaker #producer #cinematography #thehonestfilmmaker REAL TALK FOR ASPIRING FILMMAKERS The Honest Filmmaker is your go-to resource for navigating the real-world challenges of micro-budget and indie filmmaking. Hosted by award-winning filmmaker Jim Eaves, we delves into the nitty-gritty of independent film production. From securing funding and managing tight budgets to distribution strategies and building a sustainable career, this is unfiltered advice and practical tips from professionals who have been in your shoes. Whether you're a recent graduate, a career changer, or an indie filmmaker determined to make your mark, The Honest Filmmaker equips you with the tools, insights, and honest guidance to thrive in the world of independent cinema. Find out more at: https://thehonestfilmmaker.co.uk