Real Talk on Film Finance, Distribution, and Pre-Sales
“If it is a good film, it will find a way to cut through.”
This episode of the No Film School Podcast is a deep dive into the often opaque world of film finance, distribution, and foreign pre-sales. GG Hawkins hosts the episode and is joined by filmmakers Stephen Cedars and Benji Kleiman, as well as special guest Mike Chapman from Bluefinch Films.
Together, they explore what it takes to get a film made and sold in today’s unpredictable global market. From debunking myths about foreign pre-sales to discussing how to attract investors and get your film noticed at festivals, this is an essential listen for indie filmmakers navigating the post-production and sales process.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The harsh realities of the current acquisitions and distribution market
- Why understanding distribution from the beginning helps you fund your movie
- The value (and limitations) of foreign pre-sales and cast attachments
- What sales agents look for in a pitch, and how to present a compelling deck
- Why comps in pitch decks can be misleading or counterproductive
- Navigating film festivals and markets like Cannes, Berlin, and Toronto effectively
- Practical tips for raising money without burning out or making costly mistakes
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This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.
