First Indie feature Angst: Your advice sought....

butter88

New member
So here I am making a decision to put my 3.5K to produce a film. The script (drama) is written by a friend whose last film (written and directed) won awards and received many critical acclaims. It was also read by a famous screenwriter who loved it and thought it was brilliant. So I have faith in the script and the director's talent.
Only things we have so far are: director, executive producer (that's me) and a composer (top rate famous film composer who is a friend).

My questions...

1. At this ultra low budget, should I try to get a producer or should I try my hands at producing it? I've never produced a feature before. I made one short film (written and directed). Should I get a line producer (with a flat fee) and production assistants (no fee) and do the rest myself?

2. I am about to begin interviewing crew members. Do I offer deferred payments to all crew members (from producer, DPs, etc)? Is this wise to do?

3. Sag or no Sag. I've been reading a lot about new Sag indie contract deals. Although SAG offers great access to talents, it seems to be a lot of headache to deal with. I live in New York. Aren't there many talented non-union actors?

4. The lead role is written for a teenage boy (15 yrs old). should I try to get an actor 18 or older for the role?

5. The script is written for the winter season. Is it worthwhile to wait till winter? or should start filming in summer if everything is ready?

Your advice would be most appreciated...!! Thank you.
 
You should produce. No SAG. You can get FiCore actors, etc. Don't wait for winter. And try to pay every one something.
 
Back
Top