Best Way to Make Money as a Director with Your Own Films.
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“You are not going to sell this film, I have no idea how you can sell it or make any money from it. Cut it too short film length and run the festivals”
That was said to me after two years of hard work spent on my first feature film by a film producer who has a few million-dollar films under his belt. I was devastated, but what happened in the coming months blew my mind away.
How It Started
The day I decided to become a filmmaker and actually do something about it, not just dream was the moment I told myself — “Raise whatever amount of cash you can and make a feature film with it.” Oh boy, did I have a few life knock out punches waiting for me on that life choice.
Before I get into the nitty-gritty I want to let you know that I have a feature film on Amazon Prime. It’s called The Garden’s Keeper and it’s pretty much everywhere. It’s in about 120 countries. Not bad for an indie film made with less than $1000.
I don’t expect you to watch the film, because I have been told it’s unwatchable by more than a few people, but If you are into filmmaking then I do urge you to check it out just. You can use it as inspiration to start your filmmaking career.
Why inspiration?
I’m glad you asked! One of the reasons I wanted to film my first feature was that I wanted to show future filmmaker that budget should not be an obstacle in starting their career and I proved it.
If you want to go and watch it, then do so now and then continue reading. If you aren’t going to watch it then that’s on you. (If you don’t have access to Amazon Prime follow me on Instagram @adrianpedrinv and DM for a Link to a youtube copy of the film.)
Remember how I mentioned I spent less than $1000 on it? The actual sum was $750 and guess what?! I made the money back and then some in about a year.
“Jesus Christ, you made your money back and had a return on investment? With that movie?” Yes, yes I did and don’t worry, I was more surprised than you are right now. I had no clue that I would actually make my money back, I was actually very pessimistic about it, but then something happened that changed the whole indie filmmaking…
