Shows
Indie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityCathy Yonek, Chocolate for ChristmasIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking Truth and Reality, Cathy Yonek, a first-time feature filmmaker, discusses her debut independent film Chocolate for Christmas. Cathy shares her journey from making short films to tackling her first feature, emphasizing the challenges of production and the advice that led her to create a Christmas movie. The story centers around a woman who returns to her family's chocolate business to save it from financial collapse.Cathy details her organized approach to the film's seven-day shoot, with a supportive crew, including director of photography/editor Josh, and praised...
2025-12-251h 04Indie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityOwning Your Distribution with Uscreen CEO Allison YazdianIn this episode, Jeff breaks down one of the biggest frustrations indie filmmakers face today: distribution. From being ghosted by distributors to getting lost on YouTube with no revenue, the traditional paths are tougher than ever. But there is another way—taking control of your own destiny.Jeff sits down with Allison Yazdian, CEO of Uscreen, a platform that lets creators build and run their own streaming services without the tech overwhelm. Allison shares how filmmakers, fitness instructors, educators, and thousands of creators are using Uscreen to own their audience, monetize directly, and bu...
2025-12-1844 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityCapturing Reality: Luc Forsyth on the Art and Risk of Documentary FilmmakingIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking: Truth & Reality, Jeff Everett welcomes cinematographer and documentarian Luc Forsyth to discuss his unconventional path into filmmaking. Luc shares how his early years traveling and working as a photojournalist shaped his eye, eventually leading him into high-risk documentary work across Southeast Asia, Mexico, and beyond.The conversation explores the realities behind documentary cinematography—how the craft relies less on perfect gear and more on instinct, access, adaptability, and the ability to build trust in challenging environments. Luc breaks down the differences between narrative and documentary shooting, explaining wh...
2025-12-1155 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityNavigating the Film Festival Circuit w/ Jon FitzgeraldIn this episode, Jeff Everett sits down with Jon Fitzgerald — filmmaker, festival founder, former AFI Festival Director, and president of Cause Pictures — to break down the real strategy behind submitting to and succeeding on the film festival circuit.Jon shares how he co-founded Slamdance after being rejected by Sundance, and how decades of festival experience have shaped his expertise in submission strategy, credibility building, audience targeting, and festival networking.Together, Jeff and Jon explore how filmmakers can identify their goals, design custom submission plans, understand the differences betw...
2025-12-0450 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityThe Rapid Rise of AI in Indie FilmmakingThis episode explores the explosive acceleration of artificial intelligence within the film industry, focusing on how quickly the tools, capabilities, and creative possibilities are evolving. Jeff welcomes back guests David Vognild and Daniel Coté—two creators deeply immersed in AI-driven production—to unpack what’s changed since their last conversation and why every update seems to become outdated within months.Together, they examine how AI is reshaping everything from story development to image generation, lip-syncing, character consistency, and even full narrative production. David shares his hands-on experience building a feature-length film using tools like Na...
2025-11-2758 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityChoosing Film FestivalsIn this episode, host Jeff Everett breaks down the complex world of film festivals and what indie filmmakers need to know before submitting their work. He explores why filmmakers chase festival runs, the value of audience feedback, and the unique experience of screening your film in front of strangers rather than friends and family. Jeff also highlights the real purpose of festivals as a celebration of indie filmmaking—contrastingthem with film markets, which focus strictly on business and distribution. He explains why many myths around “being discovered” at festivals are largely unrealistic, especially for micro-budget films, and why the bigges...
2025-11-1935 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityHow to find a DistributorYou’ve made your indie feature — now how do you get it out into the world? In this episode, Jeff Deverett breaks down the often confusing world of film distribution and offers practical advice for filmmakers ready to take their next big step.Jeff explains the key differences between agents, distributors, and reps, and shares insider tips on where and how to find legitimate partners — from film markets like Cannes and AFM to trusted online directories. He walks through the process of researching, vetting, and reaching out to distributors, comparing it to “dating” — where trust, fit, and shared goals matter...
2025-11-1217 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityInside Indie Film Distribution with Jack Sheehan of ArchstoneIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking: Truth and Reality, host Jeff Deverett sits down with industryveteran Jack Sheehan, President of Archstone Distribution, to break down the real-world challenges of getting independent films sold and seen. Jack shares his 15+ years of experience navigating the global distribution landscape — from film festivals to streaming platforms — and offers candid insights on what makes a movie marketable in today’s rapidly shifting industry.Together, they discuss the changing economics of indie filmmaking, the role of sales agents vs. distributors, and the harsh truth that most indie films never recoup their costs. Jack also dives...
2025-10-2949 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityIt’s All About the AudienceIn this episode, Jeff Deverett reminds indie filmmakers that the most important part of filmmaking isn’t the festivals, streamers, or distributors — it’s the audience. He talks honestly about how rejection is a normal part of the business, whether it’s from distributors ghosting your emails or festivals passing on your film. But none of that means your film doesn’t have value. What really matters is getting it in front of people who will watch and enjoy it.Jeff shares why filmmakers need to think beyond the traditional gatekeepers and learn how to mar...
2025-10-2226 min2025-10-1525 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityCracking Indie Film Distribution with Indie RightsIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking, Jeff Deverett sits down with Linda Nelson and Michael Madison, founders of Indie Rights, one of the leading distributors in the independent film world. They share their journey from making their first IMAX film to building a distribution company that now represents hundreds of indie filmmakers.Linda and Michael break down the realities of indie film distribution, the importance of fair deals, and how accessibility, transparency, and community-building set Indie Rights apart. They also dive into the evolving landscape of AVOD, TVOD, and SVOD platforms, the critical role of marketing, and why filmmakers...
2025-10-0850 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityPayroll Made Simple with Cameron Woodward, Creator of WrapbookIn this episode, Jeff Deverett sits down with Cameron Woodward, founder of Wrapbook, a payroll service built specifically for the film industry. They dive into the essentials of payroll management for indie filmmakers, covering:Why proper payroll is critical for productions of all sizesThe role of insurance and how it protects both crew and producersUnderstanding deductions and compliance requirementsThe benefits of paying employees through EOR (Employer of Record) servicesWhether you’re producing your first short film or managing a larger set, this conversation offers practical in...
2025-10-0121 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityLegal Survival Guide for Indie Filmmakers — with Tatiana PerezIn this episode, Jeff sits down with entertainment attorney Tatiana Perez of Ramo Law to break down the side of filmmaking most creators avoid talking about: the legal work that keeps your film safe and sellable. From contracts to clearances to distribution deals, Tatiana explains why setting aside part of your budget for legal purposes isn't optional — it’s essential.Takeaway: Legal might feel intimidating, but getting it right upfront protects your film, your money, and your career.
2025-09-2423 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityMarkets, Money & Micro-Budgets — Tom Malloy on Real Indie Distribution Tom Malloy pulls no punches about what actually moves for indie films — who does what in distribution, why audience traction matters more than festival prestige, and how small teams can make smarter deals and stretch production value without breaking the bank.Aim for a clear, marketable hook — genre + audience beats vague “art-house” positioning when you need to sell.Treat distribution like part of production: build relationships early and create demonstrable demand.Put minimums/performance clauses in deals so rights can revert if a distributor doesn’t deliver.
2025-09-1750 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityIndie Film Distribution Secrets with Clay EpsteinDistribution can make or break your film. In this episode, Jeff Deverett sits down with Clay Epstein, President of Film Mode Entertainment and Chair of the Independent Film & Television Alliance, for a deep dive into the truth about indie film distribution.What you’ll learn:● Why distribution is the most crucial step after making your film● The role of IFTA in protecting indie filmmakers worldwide● How film markets like AFM and Cannes really work● What distributors look for when acquiring films● The harsh realities behind pre-sales, MGs, and revenue forecasts● Why only 1% of indie films succeed—and how...
2025-09-1055 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityThe Truth and Reality about Film Festivals.In this episode, we dive into the truth behind the film festival circuit and what indie filmmakers really need to know before submitting their work. From the celebration of cinema to the harsh realities of distribution, we explore how festivals actually function, which ones matter most, and why expectations need to be managed.Listeners will learn:Why film festivals are more about celebration and networking than distribution deals.The difference between A-level festivals (like Sundance, Cannes, TIFF) and smaller regional events.How platforms like FilmFreeway make submissions easier—but also overwhelming with thousands of op...
2025-09-0337 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealitySelling & Distributing Your Indie Film with Ryan TillotsonIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking: Truth and Reality, Jeff Deverett sits down with filmmaker Ryan Tillotson to discuss his journey producing and directing his own indie film. Ryan shares his creative process and the challenges he faced bringing his vision to life, while Jeff offers clear, practical insight into one of the most crucial—and often overlooked—aspects of filmmaking: the business side. From understanding the marketplace to navigating sales and distribution, Jeff provides valuable guidance that every indie filmmaker needs to hear before taking their project to the next stage.
2025-08-2739 min
California InsiderWhy Independent Films Are Leaving California | Jeff DeverettCalifornia just doubled its film tax credits to $750 million annually, but some say there's a problem. While the state courts big-budget productions, thousands of independent filmmakers making movies under $1 million are being left out entirely, impacting the entry point for new directors, writers, and crews. Independent filmmaker and professor Jeff Deverett breaks down why this matters for the next generation of Hollywood talent and what California risks losing if it doesn't act.Views expressed in this video are the opinions of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
2025-08-2043 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityWhy the Indie Film Business Has Never Worked In this solo episode, Jeff Deverett unpacks a bold but honest take: the indie film business isn’t broken—because it’s never truly worked in the first place. Jeff dives deep into why indie filmmakers often fail to build sustainable careers, focusing on one crucial oversight: ignoring the business side of filmmaking. Key takeaways:● The difference between indie filmmaking and the indie film business● Why treating filmmaking purely as art is unsustainable● The essential role of marketing, distribution, and finance● How big studios succeed by balancing creativity and business strategy● Why indie filmmakers need to build teams with complement...
2025-08-2027 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityFilm Distribution with Berry Meyerowitz of Quiver Distribution In this episode, Jeff Deverett sits down with Berry Meyerowitz, President of Quiver Distribution, for a deep dive into the realities of indie film distribution. They explore the evolution of Berry’s career across major companies like Fox and E1, his entrepreneurial journey founding Quiver, and what it takes to get a film distributed in today’s saturated market. Topics covered include:● How the distribution landscape has changed for indie filmmakers● Why AVOD platforms like Tubi are a growing opportunity● What distributors look for in low-budget films● Why marketing assets are just as important as the film itsel...
2025-08-1356 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityDistribution Reality with Noah Segal In this episode, Jeff sits down with longtime industry veteran and Elevation Pictures Co-President, Noah Segal. Together, they unpack the hard truths of indie film distribution—what it takes to get your movie seen, the myth of theatrical releases, and navigating today’s streaming-dominated landscape. If you're making a low-budget film, this episode is essential listening.
2025-08-0653 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityThe Sound Behind the ScenesIn this episode, Jeff Deverett is joined by longtime collaborator and sound designer Dan Blessinger to dive deep into one of the most overlooked—but absolutely vital—aspects of indie filmmaking: sound design.Together, they pull back the curtain on what it really takes to create an immersive audio experience in indie film, and how sound can make or break a project—even when you're working with limited resources. With years of collaboration between them, Jeff and Dan share real-world tactics, budget hacks, and stories from past projects that prove audio is never an aft...
2025-07-3027 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityEditing with Scott LeslieKey Takeaways:Start editing on set: Shoot with the edit in mind—get plenty of coverage for smooth pacing and transitions.Script advisor tip: Use one in post to fine-tune structure and catch issues early.Smart shooting saves time: Streamline post-production by planning camera setups that support the edit.Avoid common indie pitfalls: Learn from real mistakes and discover practical solutions.A must-listen for indie filmmakers looking to sharpen their post-production skills and avoid coverage-related headaches.
2025-07-2327 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityCinematography with Scott LeslieIn this episode, Jeff Deverett is joined by Cinematographer & Editor Scott Leslie to explore the art and strategy behind great cinematography in indie filmmaking.They go beyond camera talk, diving deep into lighting, equipment setups, and how to creatively use limited resources to deliver a high-end visual experience. Scott shares practical tips on how to stretch a small budget and make your indie film look like a big-budget production through smart cinematography choices, experience, and time-tested techniques.
2025-07-1629 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityThe Truth About Casting For An Indie FilmIn this episode, Jeff Deverett sits down with Casting Directors Miriam Hoffman and Candice Bernstein to uncover the truth and reality behind assembling the perfect cast for an indie film.They dive into the nuances of casting—from A-list to B-list talent—and break down the key differences between hiring union versus non-union actors, including the cost implications of each. Miriam and Candice also offer valuable insights into the casting process, sharing what filmmakers should look for when making casting decisions.
2025-07-0946 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityScript Scheduling and Shooting SchedulesIn this episode, Jeff Deverett dives deep into the essentials of script scheduling and shooting schedules for indie filmmakers. He shares valuable insights on how to break down your script effectively to create a realistic shooting schedule. Learn how to plan your filming days to maximize efficiency, save time, and reduce costs. Jeff emphasizes the importance of proper planning to avoid rescheduling and ensure your indie film stays on track.Jeff also discusses the potential downsides of having to reschedule filming days, such as dealing with bad weather, an actor falling sick, or other unforeseen circumstances. He explains how...
2025-07-0218 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityMusic Composing in Indie Filmmaking with James CovellIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking with Jeff Deverett, Jeff is joined by special guest James Covell, a veteran film composer, to pull back the curtain on the role of music in indie film.James and Jeff share their first-hand experiences — from choosing the perfect score to match your story’s mood, to navigating the pros, cons, and reality of scoring a small-budget film.Topics covered in this episode:The creative process of composing for filmWhy choosing the right piece of music can make or break a sceneTips for working with a comp...
2025-06-2531 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityScript Writing & Hiring a WriterIn this episode, Jeff Deverett dives into the different ways indie filmmakers can get a script—whether writing it themselves or hiring a writer. He breaks down the real costs, challenges, and whether it’s truly worth the investment. If you’re serious about indie filmmaking, you don’t want to miss this practical advice.
2025-06-1824 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityThe Importance of Production Sound Mixing in Indie Films with Beto CabralIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking Truth & Reality, host Jeff Deverett sits down with professional sound designer and mixer Beto Cabral to dive into the often-overlooked world of production sound in indie filmmaking. They explore why sound is frequently underrated due to budget limitations and how high-quality audio can significantly elevate storytelling, even in low-budget projects.Jeff and Beto also discuss the challenges of capturing clean audio on set, the nuances of post-production mixing, and the critical role of the sound mixer in advocating for quality sound—balancing technical precision with the realities of tight schedules and limited resources.
2025-06-1130 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityThe Truth About Being a Production Manager: Passion, Pressure & Getting It Done with Kelli LessieIn this episode of Indie Filmmaking: Truth & Reality, filmmaker Jeff Deverett sits down with Production Manager Kelli Lessie for an honest conversation about the real-life challenges behind indie film production. Kelli shares what it really means to manage a set, juggle chaos, and stay committed to the project no matter what.
2025-06-0430 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityWardrobe on a Budget with Maribeth MoyIn this episode, Jeff Deverett sits down with wardrobe specialist and organizing expert Maribeth Moy to dive into the realities of managing wardrobe on a tight budget in indie filmmaking. Together, they explore the creative ways filmmakers can dress their actors without breaking the bank—often relying on items actors already own, thrifted pieces, or repurposed wardrobe elements.Maribeth Moy shares insights on the resourcefulness and conscientiousness it takes to succeed in wardrobe for indie productions. From understanding character through clothing to building trust with actors while working within financial constraints, she emphasizes th...
2025-05-2132 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityFunding your Indie Film with CrowdfundingIn this episode, Jeff Deverett dives into crowdfunding and equity funding for your indie film project. He shares valuable insights on how to get donations and the importance of offering rewards for different donation levels. Jeff also explains how to effectively pitch your campaign, even without having any footage of your film.
2025-05-1425 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityTax Credits in Indie FilmmakingIn this episode, Jeff Deverett dives into the world of tax credits for indie filmmakers. He covers:The Dos and Don’ts: Essential tips for navigating the tax credit process successfully.Financing Complexities: An in-depth look at how getting financing can be a tangled web.Tax Credit Routes: Exploring different ways to receive tax credits, including refundable and transferable options, depending on your state.
2025-05-0726 min
Cut To The Deal: The Business of FilmFinding Film Private Investors with Jeff DeverettIn this episode Jeff Deverett will discuss exactly who film private investors are, how to find them, approach them and pitch them. After working in film distribution for many years Jeff moved to producing where he has successfully secured funding for 9 feature films and has guided numerous filmmakers through the complexities of financing and distribution. This episode tackles a very challenging part of filmmaking but Jeff has som incredible insights to demystify this topic.Learn More About Jeff Deverett:https://www.deverettmedia.com/Learn More About Cine Circle:https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/
2025-05-0559 minIndie Filmmaking: Truth & RealityPitching Your Movie to Uncle CharlieIndie Filmmaking with Jeff DeverettIn this episode, Jeff Deverett breaks down the essentials of pitching your movie to an investor—affectionately referred to as “Uncle Charlie.” Jeff emphasizes that when you’re in the room with a potential backer, you’ve got about 30 minutes to make your case—and it’s not just about the story.He makes a key point: Uncle Charlie doesn’t actually care about your movie. What he does care about is the money—the numbers, the return on investment, and the financial logic be...
2025-04-3028 min