How did you recover from a self-financed film?

P

Paunch

Well-known member
I'd love to hear your stories. I'm still struggling financially 8 months after I released my film. I'm pursuing shooting/editing work which isn't paying great at the moment but it definitely beats any other job I've had....and still I have a strong desire to start working on my next film, even though I can barely pay my bills on time....looks like I might have to get a regular job and pull some heavy hours to make it a go by summer but I can't not make this movie, it's like an itch that won't go away!

So how did you recover money-wise from a self-funded movie, and did you get the opportunity to make another film right away?
 
At Lizardlandvideo.com, a Phoenix video production, we gave up on features a long time ago. We now concentrate on commercials, infomercials and marketing films. These still allow us creative freedom while paying really well.

However, we do support the indie movie scene with rentals and editing services and it has gotten increasing difficult for those guys to make money.
 
Using your own money is tough and most would recommend not doing it, But sometimes you have to to get it done.

We have shot 3 feature films and we #1. we did not spend a lot and #2. We sold 2 of them. We have not made the money back but we did come close. There a few companies that pay up front for complete films but even those offers are pretty low.

I feel for you though. My bills are extremely high and I will not fund another feature myself for a minute.
 
You have the passion, but just like every creative person out there, you have to balance what you want to do with paying the bills and having a life. (Those can all come together but it takes hard work and time.) Make four phone calls a day selling your skills as a shooter/editor. All you need is one of those 20 contacts per week to throw you a gig and that should pay the bills. Do commericals, web videos, promos, whatever. It will improve your skills, build your business, and probably allow you to work with talented freelancers and actors in your area. That will pay your bills.

In the meantime, keep writing scripts and meeting people and talking about the kind of films you want to make. Keep in mind that Sheldon Turner who is a hot writer in Hollywood now (recently credited on "Up in the Air") said he wrote 12 screenplays before he really learned the craft. Sold the 13th one and is off to the races now.
 
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