Making Indie Films

One way or other, in your search for money to make your film or somebody to help you sell it - there will be talk of your ‘package.’ This is basically your movie in (for want of a better word) proposal form for display and sales purposes. There are certain ingredients that you will need in your package, regardless of what your movie is about or its genre. I have broken down the elements for puposes of exposition…

Items that are crucial to your package:

i)The Script
When including the script in your package - no fancy covers or illustrative art - unless you have had a professional design a poster. And even then, use mock-up posters at your peril. Included with the script should be a punchy one page synopsis - written in the style of sales copy (like you might find on the back of a DVD). If you don’t have a character breakdown - write one. Beside the description of each character you should include the names of the actors you are considering.

ii) Finance Plan (if you have one)
This can be as simple as the ‘top-sheet’ of a budget, or a more detailed breakdown of how you intend to raise finance. By including something of this kind you will show finance/sales people that you are serious and have considered the financial aspect of your project. Obviously there is a huge difference between trying to raise $10k and $1M. But going in, the individuals that you are trying to ’sell’ will need to know what sort of money you are talking about. So be bold, but realistic.

iii) The Director
Include a bio/credentials pitch on the Director. If he has credits - great. List them and write up a short description of each - highlighting his (or hers) value and creativity. If he (or she) has no credits - write-up a creative bio for this person that details what they bring to the project. For instance - if you are making a movie about house painters - it might help that your newbie director was a house-painter for five years. Talk this person up. Give them confidence. Make them seem like a good choice to people you approach.

iv) The Cast
Ideally this might include somebody who has been in movies. If you have anybody of note - this is a big plus. Include the actors filmographies, bios and Letters of intent - if you have been smart enough to get them. The more of interest your cast seems - the closer you can get to finance and distribution.

v) The Crew
Do you have a track record as a Producer? Does the writer or cameraman or composer have credits? Include details about the behind the scenes people. This will bring credibility to your package and re-enforce the fact that you CAN actually make a movie and deliver. Pictured above is the late great ANTONIONI - maybe you can just take a leaf out of his book…

Well there you have it. One through five. It sounds simple - but there are many shades of gray and levels in packages. Just make sure it makes sense and that you proofread it.

Before you start, though, you might want to invest in some of the following software…

Movie Magic BUDGETING SOFTWARE
Movie Magic SCHEDULING SOFTWARE
Showbiz Labor Guide

You should also visit SAG INDIE for their advice and latest contracts…

VISIT SAG-INDIE for the latest contracts