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FILM IN 140 PANEL SERIES: FILM FINANCE – DO I HAVE TO BEG FOR IT?

By Mark Bell | April 7, 2011

Film Threat’s Film in 140 Panel on Twitter that took place on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 from 9-10pm EST was “Film Finance-Do I HAVE to beg for it?”. While the hottest trend in film finance for micro and low budget films is crowdfunding, grants and traditional investor financing still remain. A hybrid approach may now be the best financing plan. Panelists Jeff Steele of Film Closings and Sean Elwood from Creative Capital regularly help producers and filmmakers source and structure financing that services the creative demands of the film while maximizing returns on the investment. Join us in discussion on what your financing options are, how to get donors and investors interested in funding your work and determining what a good budget level is for realistic recoupment in today’s crowded media market. Transcript below!

PANELISTS

  • Jeff Steele, Film Closings

    As owner of the entertainment consulting firm Film Closings, Inc., Jeff Steele is a noted film finance expert in all matters of debt and equity, but also has a significant array of hands-on producing credits. Film Closings focuses on the management and development of financial solutions and strategies for agencies, management firms, foreign sales companies, and independent producers. Steele is often considered unorthodox within the indie financing world and is known amongst his peers for cultivating strategies atypical of the traditional Hollywood model.

    Steele got his start in Los Angeles working for the likes of Tom Freston, Mike Medavoy, Arnold Messer, and Linda Obst, among others. He is a frequent panelist for film financing forums and he’s known for telling audiences what they need to know but don’t want to hear.

    You can find Jeff on his website http://filmclosings.com/ or follow him on Twitter @filmclosings

  • Sean Elwood, Creative Capital

    Sean Elwood is the Director of Special Projects at Creative Capital; a national nonprofit organization that provides integrated financial and advisory support to artists pursuing adventurous projects in all disciplines. They combine funding, counsel and career development services to enable a project’s success and foster sustainable practices for our grantees.

    You can find Sean on the Creative Capital website http://creative-capital.org/home or follow him on Twitter @creativecap

TRANSCRIPT

@Filmin140Panel Welcome to tonight’s panel! Our topic is “Film Finance – Do I Have To Beg For It?” #filmin140 -9:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel You can follow along with the conversation at TweetChat (http://bit.ly/abFubH) or at @FilmThreat.com #filmin140 -9:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique Yay! #filmin140 -9:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings In short…yes. #filmin140 -9:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Our panelists tonight are Jeff Steele (@FilmClosings), owner of Film Closings… #filmin140 -9:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde I’m there. #filmin140 -9:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel …and Sean Elwood (@creativecap), Director of Special Projects at Creative Capital #filmin140 -9:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Though we have panelists, multiple voices are welcome, so join in the discussion! #filmin140 -9:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings hello everybody! #filmin140 -9:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde Topic is: “Film Finance – Do I Have To Beg For It?” #filmin140 -9:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler taking this to mean you are answering the panel question about begging RT @FilmClosings: In short…yes. #filmin140 -9:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Hello #filmin140 -9:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat Is it me, or is TweetChat rolling a little slow tonight… #filmin140 -9:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine hello RT @FilmClosings hello everybody! #filmin140 -9:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings For the record there’s about a 30 second lag from type to post. #filmin140 -9:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler yeah rolling slow #filmin140 -9:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel First question for our panelists, per @shericandler: what is a recoupable budget for an indie film nowadays, in general? #filmin140 -9:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat It’ll just be an easier to follow panel then 😉 #filmin140 -9:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap what is a recoupable budget these days? That’s more a question for an entertainment attorney. Short answer: almost everything #filmin140 -9:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Our very own Sean Elwood is manning the twitter handle right now for a #filmin140 panel–come ask your film… http://fb.me/KgMMYHWI -9:06 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings If you’re not using presales, gap, etc., then I would keep the budget under $1m. #filmin140 -9:06 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions Join in the $$$ pit. RT @Filmin140Panel: Welcome to tonight’s panel! Our topic is “Film Finance – Do I Have To Beg For It?” #filmin140 -9:06 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM Want to know what the panel thinks about the latest spate of crowdfunded projects. Is crowdfunding moribund? #filmin140 -9:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @FilmClosings does that include marketing and distro expenses? #filmin140 -9:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmClosings Begs the question, how creative do filmmakers need to be to recoup those budgets then? #filmin140 -9:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings Alternatively, commercial films are recoupable budgets. Art films are non-recoupable budgets. #filmin140 -9:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jp_cubish #filmin140 So I’m pleased to announce that Alaska’s film incentive bill just got a ten-year extension -9:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler ever? RT @FilmClosings: Alternatively, commercial films are recoupable budgets. Art films are non-recoupable budgets. #filmin140 -9:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Dustin_Jacobs @FilmClosings What if you’re making a thesis film and you know that your budget can’t be recouped? Where to get funding for that? #filmin140 -9:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel How realistic is it to rely on the more classic distribution to revenue model nowadays, or is it about opening many diff streams? #filmin140 -9:09 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman If I have attached talent and pre-sold territories thru a sales agent, what banks can i go to for financing? #filmin140 -9:09 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @shericandler, No, that $1m budget does not include P&A. That would have to be in addition to. #filmin140 -9:10 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Quick note to panelists: this is how things roll; feel free to answer anyone’s questions (not just mine). Jump in and good luck! #filmin140 -9:10 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Amused0472 How viable is crowd funding as a means of raising funding when you have none to start? #filmin140 -9:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap crowdfunding: remains to be seen whether these sites will bring substantially more support than you can using those tactics. #filmin140 -9:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler hmm RT @FilmClosings: @shericandler, No, that $1m budget does not include P&A. That would have to be in addition to. #filmin140 -9:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington First time taking part in #filmin140 & I’m hooked already! -9:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @Dustin_Jacobs if you have a social issue in your thesis, you’ll have a better chance of getting issue grants. #filmin140 -9:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FirstGlanceFilm @Filmin140Panel Do genre specific indie films tend to find funds quicker than the usual rom-coms? #filmin140 -9:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @Amused0472 even a campaign needs pre-production. #filmin140 -9:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @creativecap @FilmClosings which causes are attracting the money now? are certain orgs ready to finance work? #filmin140 -9:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @creativecap It does seem, crowdfunding-wise, that saying you’re using Kickstarter is better received than saying “my own site” #filmin140 -9:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap You should know about the Foundation Center, source for information grants. Addressee real/online. http://foundationcenter.org #filmin140 -9:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde Great advice RT @FilmClosings: If you have a social issue in your thesis, youll have a better chance of getting issue grants. #filmin140 -9:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @ @Filmin140Panel: classic distribution models are fine for mainstream indies (over $5m), but alternative models for less. #filmin140 -9:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Dustin_Jacobs @FilmClosings Social media is the issue. Which is pretty ironic considering what we’re doing right now. #filmin140 #filmin140 -9:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Look for grants based on the content of your film, not just grants for filmmaking. #filmin140 -9:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jp_cubish Are there any notable examples of successful crowd funding? #filmin140 -9:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster @Filmin140Panel is there a chance for foreign (English speaking) films to find budgets in the US? #filmin140 -9:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat Yeah, we retweet a lot, but that way all our followers get to enjoy the fun 😉 #filmin140 -9:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Should crowdfunders focus on finding an audience first, then monetizing them? Sort of DIY pre-sales direct to consumer? #filmin140 -9:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Web presence includes a website (websites?), social networks, wikipedia entries, online sales sites. all are needed #filmin140 -9:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @jp_cubish there are many on the @kickstarter and @indiegogo blogs #filmin140 -9:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jp_cubish #filmin140 From what little I admittedly know, it just doesn’t seem very viable. -9:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @Amused0472 #crowdfunding works for lower budget (under $1m, or under $500k). tweet to @sokap1 for more info — he’s in the room #filmin140 -9:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap audience first mailing list, mailing list, mailing list #filmin140 -9:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Is the grant-seeking process one that starts before you film, or to be used to help finances after you have a film finished? #filmin140 -9:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions These folks did @grking @gregorybayne @GoodbyePromise RT @jp_cubish: Are there any notable examples of successful crowd funding? #filmin140 -9:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler strongly agree. No network,no crowdfunding RT @creativecap: audience first mailing list, mailing list, mailing list #filmin140 -9:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @olilewington a strange stat I am finding out early in my campaign, is my funders are not my target audience. #filmin140 -9:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman any examples online of what a P&A budget looks like? #filmin140 -9:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @MrSifuentes Are they people you know already, through other contacts? #filmin140 -9:16 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap croudfunding also works in phases. a little for development, then prod. then presentation. little money, but strategic #filmin140 -9:16 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @olilewington I can see my target audience buying dvd’s and tickets but not donating to the campaign. #filmin140 #indiego http://ow.ly/4nmsr -9:16 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Definitely a useful resource if there is! RT @zakforsman: any examples online of what a P&A budget looks like? #filmin140 -9:17 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Amused0472 @THEREALADM @MrSifuentes @olilewington Funders are usually your friends and family #filmin140 -9:17 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique Do you have an example of what a finance plan looks like? #film140q #filmin140 -9:17 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @zakforsman I’m not aware of any online budgets – they’re each relative to their respective films. You’re reinventing the wheel. #filmin140 -9:18 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @Amused0472 @gregorybayne and @lmcnelly would disagree with you on that #filmin140 -9:18 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @MrSifuentes So are you selling DVDs/Tkts AWAY from the #indiegogo page as well #filmin140 -9:18 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @Amused0472 I don’t think that’s true. Funders come from many places. Starts with friends maybe, but success lies in expansion #filmin140 -9:18 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 In terms of understanding film financing basics, what’s the one area you feel filmmakers could educate themselves better about? #filmin140 -9:19 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @Amused0472 @THEREALADM @olilewington from the research I’ve gotten 20% fam and friends 80% strangers or friends of friends #filmin140 -9:19 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington That IS weird! RT @MrSifuentes: @olilewington 1/2 of my current funders are actors I have never worked with nor meet. #filmin140 -9:19 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @FilmFanatique you can see an example of a pro finance plan at: http://@FilmClosings.com/finance-plan/ #filmin140 -9:19 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman gotcha. what are the core ingredients of a P&A budget? #filmin140 -9:20 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Makes more sense RT @MrSifuentes: @Amused0472 @THEREALADM @olilewington 20% fam and friends 80% strangers or friends of friends #filmin140 -9:21 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @atlfilm365 Filmmakers HAVE to invest in themselves. Be prepared to spend $10k-$25k out-of-pocket to get each project made. #filmin140 -9:21 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Ouch. RT @FilmClosings: @atlfilm365 Filmmakers HAVE to be prepared to spend $10k-$25k out-of-pocket to get each project made. #filmin140 -9:21 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap what’s the one area you feel filmmakers could educate themselves: thinking about marketing from the very beginning #filmin140 -9:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @FilmClosings That seems counter to the old advice of “never use your own money.” When did that change? Was it always wrong? #filmin140 -9:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @FilmClosings good to know. I think most people don’t want to put someone in business, they have to have things going already #filmin140 -9:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @shericander, @creativecap used the “m” word first 😉 #filmin140 -9:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @THEREALADM Even so $15-25K PER FILM is a huge hole to be getting yourself into! #filmin140 -9:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions MT @FilmClosings: an example of a pro finance plan: http://@FilmClosings.com/finance-plan/ #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler I’m in love! RT @creativecap: one area filmmakers could educate themselves: thinking about marketing from the very beginning #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman @FilmClosings $10-25k? would that be for forming llc, having a pro do a budget, financing proposal, etc? #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @FilmThreat ha! yes!! #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @atlfilm365 you’re spending it on: budget, schedule, finance plan, incorporation, OPTION!!!, cash-flow schedule, etc. #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Amused0472 If I had $ I wouldn’t be begging. :] #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington 100% RT @creativecap: one area filmmakers could educate themselves: thinking about marketing from the very beginning #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @olilewington @THEREALADM True, but $15-25K is within the realm of crowdfunding success nowadays #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @shericandler You didn’t have to bust out the m word first. 😉 #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM Not begging | you’re actually engaging your audience for the future | RT @Amused0472: If I had $ I wouldn’t be begging. :] #filmin140 -9:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM True that | RT @FilmThreat: @olilewington @THEREALADM True, but $15-25K is within the realm of crowdfunding success nowadays #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @atlfilm365 You owe me a soda, jinx. #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster call it convincing 😛 RT @Amused0472: If I had $ I wouldn’t be begging. :] #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @olilewington @THEREALADM Producing is a Business, and films are product launches. They all require startup capital. #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @THEREALADM I think non-established filmmakers more likely to have to put more $ in up front than established. Show commitment #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmThreat Soda? This is film festival world, we don’t do “soft” drinks. #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Do you have to beg? No, but you have to ask intelligently. And you probably have to provide something of value in exchange. #filmin140 -9:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @olilewington But is that borne out by the results? I think there are established filmmakers we both know who still overspend #filmin140 -9:25 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Another thing that filmmakers need to think about: premiums – crowdfunding sites or your own. #filmin140 -9:25 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @creativecap I foresee a day when crowdfunding will either be an established part of the puzzle or it will wither and die away. #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 Do you think filmmakers take enough time exploring how viable and feasible projects are before jumping through too many hoops? #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Where in the process do the panelists’ companies get involved with project financing? Pre-filming, during and/or post? #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@DanielWoods @zakforsman I’m releaseing my film online so my p&a budget looks a little different I started advertising on facebook ads #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @olilewington @THEREALADM That self-investment is also a good litmus test as to whether your project warrants that money. #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions @creativecap break down the script into elements that go beyond genre & story. Dissect characters, themes and subplots #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @creativecap Can you expand what you mean by “premiums”? #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @creativecap what do you think is the most value potential investors/funders want? #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @FilmThreat I dn’t think crowdfunding will raise the “start-up” capital @FilmClosings is talking about. Got to make it viable 1st #filmin140 -9:26 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap I think crowdfunding run by the artists themselves will survive. #filmin140 -9:27 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes being approached with investment money from the material I got on my current #indiegogo campaign. should it be a combo of both? #filmin140 -9:27 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films With all due respect… the more I use Twitter, the more it seems like a broken piece of junk… as I said with all due respect #filmin140 -9:27 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM What does that mean? Specify? RT @creativecap: I think crowdfunding run by the artists themselves will survive. #filmin140 -9:27 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @FilmClosings The issue, I guess, is where that start-up cap comes from if you can’t afford it from your own pocket. #filmin140 -9:27 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @MrSifuentes that is awesome and the best case scenario #filmin140 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @FilmClosings It’s finding funding to find funding! #filmin140 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MJ_Slide Following #filmin140 who I’m plugging in my next blogpost. Lurking & learning about financing your films. -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @olilewington Depends on the filmmaker/project. I’ve seen it succeed 4 opening capital, but people involved have success history #filmin140 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @Filmin140Panel I get involved very early, so that the producers know what kind of money they need to raise. #filmin140 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Amused0472 Yes! RT @olilewington: @FilmClosings The issue is where that start-up cap comes from if you cant afford it from your own pocket. #filmin140 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jp_cubish #filmin140 A dealer asked how much we needed for a project. Thought he was going to finance but instead he asked me to sell pills 🙁 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Too true. RT @THEREALADM: @olilewington I think there are established filmmakers we both know who still overspend #filmin140 -9:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@DanielWoods @zakforsman I’m also advertising on hulu with pre roll ads for my film on show that are like my movie. Marketing budget about 10K #filmin140 -9:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap I think the sites still need to prove they are providing audience that one can’t find on one’s own. #filmin140 -9:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jp_cubish I call that “wrongcrowdfunding” #filmin140 -9:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique @olilewington find another business to get into. Or save your money till you do have the money. #filmin140 -9:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@merrynell Eavesdropping… #filmin140 #filmin140 -9:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Absolutely. RT @FilmClosings: That self-investment is a good litmus test as to whether your project warrants that money. #filmin140 -9:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde Objectively assessing the value of your film = good start.RT @creativecap: And you have to provide something of value in exchange #filmin140 -9:30 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @creativecap I’ve never considered that. I always thought of those sites as giving a legit way to receive money, not find aud #filmin140 -9:30 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman in what order do u recommend pursuing NAME TALENT, PRE-SALES/DISTRO, and FINANCING? often you cant get one without the other. #filmin140 -9:30 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM Don’t get filmmakers who DON’T want spend on marketing…I mean, anyone can MAKE movie. The trick is 2 get people 2 watch it. #filmin140 -9:30 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @creativecap Yes even though it doesn’t make any sense… but if someone wants to give you money for some reason thats not bad #filmin140 -9:30 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap By audience I mean supporters. I think eventually all artist will have to launch their own crowdfunding efforts. #filmin140 -9:31 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings Attachments, sales estimates, and finance plan are the most valuable elements for investors. #filmin140 -9:32 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @creativecap Private site crowdfunding seems less reputable 2 take chance on. Kickstarter least gives illusion of accountability #filmin140 -9:32 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Crowdfunding is based on your access to a community/network of supporters that I think one has to build for one’s self #filmin140 -9:32 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Agreed RT @FilmFanatique: @olilewington find another business to get into. Or save your money till you do have the money. #filmin140 -9:32 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @555films That’s only true if there are no string’s attached. Money is often the green contract full of tiny invisible print. 🙂 #filmin140 -9:33 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @shericandler have a meeting tomorrow. productions need multiple forms of investment, grants, #crowdfunding and fundraising #filmin140 -9:33 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings TALENT, THEN FINANCING, THEN DISTRIBUTION. #filmin140 -9:33 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @creativecap definitely. So how does Creative Capital help support artists? What r your services for artists? #filmin140 -9:33 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster RT @FilmClosings: TALENT, THEN FINANCING, THEN DISTRIBUTION. #filmin140 -9:33 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman i see. buddy of mine raised $1.4m in presales at AFM with one star attached, then took to bank for financing. is this the norm? #filmin140 -9:34 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @FilmClosings @atlfilm365 I can see that being a problem for low budget filmmakers if they had $10K to $25K would start shooting #filmin140 -9:34 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap I think the site are very good, but eventually, I think you can build a group of supporters yourself #filmin140 -9:34 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @555films @FilmClosings @atlfilm365 Got to start somewhere. #filmin140 -9:34 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @zakforsman that is the norm. that’s a good norm. #filmin140 -9:35 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine #filmin140 not everyone can make a great film or #documentary you dont need #branding for the movie, make i… (cont) http://deck.ly/~LRqK4 -9:35 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@brandoneculture #filmin140 not everyone can make a great film or #documentary you dont need #branding for the movie, make i… (cont) http://deck.ly/~knCWI -9:35 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap @creativecapital gives money up to 50k, services, networks, advice over a long period of time. . .short version #filmin140 -9:35 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @FilmClosings what’s a realistic projection of self distribution? has an #indy #filmmaker grossed over 500k in profit? #filmin140 -9:35 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @creativecap Agreed. Feels like name crowdfund sites offer a reputation that is easier to take a risk on than a private site #filmin140 -9:36 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster How about building a fan base but approach sponsors with it 2 finance the film+P&R & offer them an online campaign in return? #filmin140 -9:36 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @MrSifuentes That’s an amazing question. #filmin140 -9:36 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FirstGlanceFilm Attaching a star CAN help get you money, but doesn’t guarantee anything, if investors don’t like the script #filmin140 -9:36 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FirstGlanceFilm Or if the star is genre-pegged and typecast — then it helps nuttin’. #filmin140 -9:36 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @MrSifuentes yes, people have grossed $500k+, but only the filmmaker knows if it was profitable (usually not.) #filmin140 -9:37 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@JasonLGilmore @zakforsman I say financing first unless u have some inside track to the others. Fully financed script = different convo #filmin140 -9:37 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM It could work, not unheard of | #filmin140 RT @jblockbuster: How about building a fan base but approach sponso… (cont) http://deck.ly/~qGM41 -9:37 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Yeah, beyond Morgan Spurlock, how viable is it to finance a film solely through sponsorships? #filmin140 -9:37 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings Script is most important to foreign buyers, followed by producer-with-track-records, then actors/directors. #filmin140 -9:37 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmClosings @MrSifuentes I think she meant if they netted 500 large in profit, no @MrSifuentes? #filmin140 -9:38 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmClosings Interesting, because some producers have put the onus on the talent for foreign sales. #filmin140 -9:39 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman thanks! this is the avenue we’ll be pursuing. RT @FilmClosings: @zakforsman that is the norm. that’s a good norm. #filmin140 -9:39 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @Filmin140Panel How would you turn that sponsorship into cash? Most brands want to co-market, not give cash. #filmin140 -9:39 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes Marc from @WebFilmMktgTips said he made $40k in 2 days on his #indiefilm Zen Noir would be interested in the gross over 2 yrs #filmin140 -9:40 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @MrSifuentes I KNEW you were going to use that example! Marc Rosenbush #filmin140 -9:40 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @atlfilm365 Talent is very important, but it’s lipstick on a pig if you have a bad script. #filmin140 -9:40 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 Let me open this can of worms, how about financing for films featuring stories w/minorities (by US standards). Is that changing? #filmin140 -9:40 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmClosings I like that idiom! #filmin140 -9:40 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman @JasonLGilmore just thinking that financing wld be easier if u had talent attached and presold territories papered. no expert tho #filmin140 -9:41 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @THEREALADM 😀 I don’t know the guy personally but seems realistic enough considering his marketing background #filmin140 -9:41 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmClosings That’s why I was asking 😉 @MorganSpurlock seemed to get cash AND co-marketing, but he is a brand himself #filmin140 -9:41 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@kwild @FilmThreat But is the market for crowdsourcing becoming oversaturated? Will people tire of donating? Crucial to differentiate. #filmin140 -9:42 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @atlfilm365 would love that answer. The majority of my cast are #latinas #filmin140 -9:42 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @tlfilm365 Minorities films are changing. Urban minorities buy WAY more DVDs than use VOD. Precious pre-sold very well + Gemany. #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @kwild I’ve asked the same thing myself several times, and I think the good projects will still find an audience. #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @Filmin140Panel @FilmClosings @MorganSpurlock according to his TED talk video, even he had trouble getting brands on board #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster Almost every filmmaker I know has their own crowdsourcing campaign running… RT @kwild: oversaturated? Crucial to differentiate. #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine we self funded 1st, then got like 20 global fest invites, won a few…#filmin140 RT @musegroup: @DocumentaryC… (cont) http://deck.ly/~D3jVB -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@TLaTela @atlfilm365: *crickets chirping* #filmin140 #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @kwild I don’t know if it can be predicted, but if u think the crowdfunding river will run dry, then fish the f**k out of it now! #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @kwild Crowdfunding is only a formal term that cause-based projects have been doing for decades. Don’t let nomenclature mix u up. #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique @atlfilm365 which minorities? and @MrSifuentes I believe the latino population will soon be the majority. #filmin140 -9:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington I think crowdSOURCING is no different to what filmmakers have done for years with unpaid crew #filmin140 -9:44 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @olilewington Yep, I mentioned it a few RTs back there. #filmin140 -9:44 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmThreat ROTF! #filmin140 -9:44 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine yes, yes! it must be personal, and passion filled.. #filmin140 RT @musegroup: @documentarycine I guess what … (cont) http://deck.ly/~qUYTs -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster @THEREALADM how2 differentiate a good project? The 1 w/ the most online views& followers are not always the 1 with best story 😉 #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat The biggest difference in crowd-funding and sourcing seems to be that the internet has opened up a larger pool to work with #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @THEREALADM @kwild The Catholic Church has been #crowdfunding for centuries. #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @jblockbuster It’s the one with the long tail. Know it? #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @THEREALADM Absolutely. CrowdFUNDING is a new name for something old, too. What’s in a name? A business opportunity #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster word 🙂 RT @olilewington: I think crowdSOURCING is no different to what filmmakers have done for years with unpaid crew #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmClosings Classic! #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Crowdfunding is also what orgs have been doing forever. Crowdfunding is just organizational funding writ small #filmin140 -9:45 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Trigonis @kwild I think it’ll all depend on the quality of the projects being crowdfunded. If it’s a shoddy idea, no one will donate. #filmin140 -9:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @olilewington good point. the 25k I’m raising from #indiegogo is for production value.if I raise 75k that would pay the crew well #filmin140 -9:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings Can we move on from crowdfunding topic? #filmin140 -9:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine if the goal is $ only tough road.. impact on culture is key. #filmin140 RT @musegroup: @documentarycine I gue… (cont) http://deck.ly/~7p9fs -9:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap PBS has been giving away tote bags forever #filmin140 -9:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@seanjsjourdan What genre would the panel suggest to a first time feature writer/director from a financing standpoint? #filmin140 -9:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman yes, new Q: on a scale of 1-10, how awesome is Jeff’s blog? 😉 #filmin140 -9:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat HA! RT @creativecap: PBS has been giving away tote bags forever #filmin140 -9:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington 10.awesome RT @zakforsman: yes, new Q: on a scale of 1-10, how awesome is Jeff’s blog? 😉 #filmin140 -9:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique @zakforsman Jeff Steele’s blog is a 10+ #filmin140 -9:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @seanjsjourdan Action (but with a fresh take). #filmin140 -9:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@merrynell If you overtap ur network. Gotta keep building & finding nu audience RT @kwild: market for crowdsourcing becoming oversaturated? #filmin140 -9:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde Good ? RT @seanjsjourdan: What genre would the panel suggest to a 1st time feature writer/director from a financing standpoint? #filmin140 -9:48 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@TLaTela I was just about to ask about other alternative funding beyond CF…=>RT @FilmClosings: Can we move on from crowdfunding topic? #filmin140 -9:48 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmClosings How much does a track record matter in film financing? Both creatively and financially for a filmmaker? #filmin140 -9:48 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @zakforsman Jeff rocks! @FilmThreat #filmin140 He gets an ELEVEN! -9:48 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman @seanjsjourdan I’ve had action, horror and thriller recommended to me recently as the most…advantageous. #filmin140 -9:48 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @FilmClosings Are there more popular genres for foreign (ie UK) films for 1st time prods/directors? Any easier to find the cash? #filmin140 -9:48 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde @FilmClosings @seanjsjourdan RE: Action. But action < ~1 mil. Does anyone have an indie example? #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@merrynell Amen. RT @FilmClosings: @THEREALADM @kwild The Catholic Church has been #crowdfunding for centuries. #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman “fresh take” good advice. RT @FilmClosings: @seanjsjourdan Action (but with a fresh take). #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@TLaTela @creativecap What are some success stories whose best practices you can share? Thanks! #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @olilewington Romantic comedy for $1,000, Alex? #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @atlfilm365 Track-record is everything. That’s your filmmaking #FICO score. Especially for producers re: production value. #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman @dschmudde havent seen it but maybe “Bellflower”? #filmin140 -9:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @merrynell @FilmClosings @kwild LoL!!! #filmin140 -9:50 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@dschmudde Working on thriller but I’m assuming ~2-3 mil w/ attachment. #filmin140 -9:50 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmClosings So would that be limited to only features or all productions a filmmaker has been involved with? #FICO #filmin140 -9:50 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat Not to pimp Film Threat too much, but Hammad Zaidi’s Going Bionic column covers foreign sales for indie film http://bit.ly/aheuBv #filmin140 -9:51 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@kwild @Trigonis Absolutely. And the ability to engage your audience in innovative ways. #crowdfunding #filmin140 -9:51 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions @FilmClosings @Filmin140Panel re: brands & cash – co-brand w them on your site/film then have them market film to their network #filmin140 -9:51 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Shawn_D_Price @FilmClosings we should DM email addresses #filmin140 -9:51 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @olilewington UK investors have more tax scheme option that allow them to finance less commercial films, to their own peril. #filmin140 -9:51 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmClosings @olilewington But UK/Irish documentary product is astonishing. I think it’s public dosh well used. #filmin140 -9:52 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings VFX and locations are the budget killers. Keep them few if you can. #filmin140 -9:52 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmClosings That’s exactly what Milos Forman told Lisa Cholodenko on HIGH ART. We all know what happened there. #FTW! #filmin140 -9:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @FilmClosings ideal money 25% #crowdfunding 15% grants 10% traditional fundraising 50% investment #filmin140 #indiegogo http://ow.ly/4nmsr -9:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @FilmClosings so money well spent is really on name cast? #filmin140 -9:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Mostly, true. RT @THEREALADM: @FilmClosings UK/Irish documentary product is astonishing. I think it’s public dosh well used. #filmin140 -9:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FirstGlanceFilm I’ve heard that if you can get Michael Madsen, it guarantees you at least a poster at AFM #filmin140 -9:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Trigonis @kwild Yes! I’ve learned 1st hand that audience engagement is everything (the $ I raised just added production value.) #filmin140 -9:54 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @Shawn_D_Price you can email my assistant: asstjeff@FilmClosings.com — Note: you all can’t pick my brain for free. 🙂 #filmin140 -9:54 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @FilmClosings Can’t pick your brain for free? I thought that’s what this hour was for 😉 #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap @TLaTela Sandi Dubowski – hard to replicate. Trembling before God, a great content driven film + brilliantly distributed #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions Perennial AFM star RT @FirstGlanceFilm: I’ve heard that if you can get Michael Madsen, it guarantees you at least a poster at AFM #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@kwild @merrynell @FilmClosings @THEREALADM Ppl are tied to the church by way of religion. Gotta translate emotional connection to film. #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat RT @FilmClosings you can email my assistant: asstjeff@FilmClosings.com — Note: you all cant pick my brain for free. 🙂 #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @shericandler money well spent is on casting director. or a director with a track record of name talent. #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@lmcnelly No idea, but Sheri is prob right RT @shericandler: @Amused0472 @gregorybayne and @lmcnelly would disagree with you on that #filmin140 -9:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@merrynell @FilmClosings But aren’t we picking your brain for free now? 🙂 #filmin140 -9:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @NoRestrictions Hear, hear, JP. He’s in EVERYTHING, these days. #filmin140 -9:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @FirstGlanceFilm Michael Madsen also charges $10k to read the script. #filmin140 -9:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine thank you for your time, and insight RT @FilmClosings Note: you all can’t pick my brain for free. 🙂 #filmin140 (cc @brandoneculture) -9:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler @lmcnelly that the majority of your crowdfunding money came from family and friends #filmin140 -9:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM @FilmClosings @FirstGlanceFilm HK kickass films with Asia Argento. Deep stuff. 😉 #filmin140 -9:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique @FilmClosings outside of this hour no picking. Can I call you to do a finance plan and go through the process with me? #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @merrynell I’m sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @FilmClosings For that amount, he better read it out loud in front of me… #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@TLaTela @creativecap Thanks for that example… #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM HILARIOUS!!! RT @FilmClosings: @merrynell I’m sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Awesome new model! RT @FilmClosings: @merrynell I’m sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM LoL!!! RT @FilmThreat: @FilmClosings For that amount, he better read it out loud in front of me… #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 Yep, this is officially the funniest #filmin140 so far. Who knew it would be the money people. #financingisusuallyadepressingtopic 🙂 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster LOL RT @FilmClosings: @merrynell I’m sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings @FilmFanatique Happy to work with you on a finance plan. My office will set it up. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@THEREALADM RT @jblockbuster: LOL RT @FilmClosings: @merrynell I’m sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:58 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat Ha! Send it to @shericandler… RT @FilmClosings: @merrynell Im sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:58 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@TheyMakeFilms Ive heard that if you can get Michael Madsen, it guarantees you at least a poster at AFM #filmin140 http://bit.ly/hvhQ2J -9:58 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap @TLaTela to read more, please visit our website- creative-capital.org #filmin140 -9:58 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@merrynell Haha! U got me. RT @FilmClosings: @merrynell Im sending you all an invoice in the morning. Crowd-invoicing. #filmin140 -9:58 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@mojavemusing One more time RT @creativecap: one area filmmakers could educate themselves: thinking about marketing from the very beginning #filmin140 -9:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmFanatique @filmin140 That was a fast hour #filmin140 -9:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Time is rolling down. Panelists, pimp your sites/projects before you forget! #filmin140 -9:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington Totally flew by! RT @FilmFanatique: @filmin140 That was a fast hour #filmin140 -9:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @FilmFanatique Always is. #filmin140 -9:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster Indeed RT @FilmFanatique: @filmin140 That was a fast hour #filmin140 -9:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler in the video about filmmaker sustainability, Sandi mentioned @creativecap as a great resource #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films So the problem is if you have a script but you don’t have $10K to get Michael Masden to read it #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel That’s the hour! You can keep talking, but I want to thank @FilmClosings and @creativecap for joining us tonight. #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings HTTP://FILMCLOSINGS.COM is a film finance blog I write that caters to indie producers. #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@unepgroup RT @FilmClosings: @tlfilm365 Minorities films are changing. Urban minorities buy WAY more DVDs than use VOD. Precious pre-sold very well + Gemany. #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap @Filmin140Panel – Again: creative-capital.org. . . #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@lmcnelly Family: $0 RT @shericandler: @lmcnelly that the majority of your crowdfunding money came from family and friends #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@merrynell Parting words: don’t forget the “crowd” part in crowdfunding. #filmin140 -10:00 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films how much do you need for a casting director to read a script? #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@zakforsman thanks @FilmClosings much appreciated. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@NoRestrictions Where do you see the current finance/presale models for independent film in the next 5 years? @FilmClosings @creativecap #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Transcript of tonight’s chat will be on @FilmThreat.com tomorrow, if Mark can get to it before he gets on a plane for KC #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster I dropped in by chance – and enjoyed it very much! THANKS! #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings Thanks @creativecap — you were great. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @555films Depends on the CD and your relationship. They may read for free, but hey won’t do it all for nowt. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@creativecap Thank you all. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@seanjsjourdan Thank you #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@kwild Lol! RT @Filmin140Panel Time is rolling down. Panelists, pimp your sites/projects before you forget! #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@WaterholeMovie Looks like I missed some great information. Can’t wait to review the transcript. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @unepgroup @FilmClosings shouldn’t that be script talent financing distribution #filmin140 -10:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmClosings By everybody, thanks! #filmin140 -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @FilmClosings thanks Jeff! #filmin140 -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FirstGlanceFilm For all those #filmin140 Come out this weekend to FirstGlance Hollywood- Apr 8- 10 see 30 award winning films http://bit.ly/eiuv8p -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington At 3am in the UK, it’s time for sleep. Big meeting tomrrow. Thanks for the chats and laughs #filmin140 -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @olilewington @555films I have a bruce springsteen CD is that any good? #filmin140 -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster Check out this website: RT @creativecap: @Filmin140Panel – Again: creative-capital.org. . . #filmin140 -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@JasonLGilmore @zakforsman no expert either. Never had a film where presales was an option. But so far financing & a casting dir seem 2 work #filmin140 -10:02 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@WaterholeMovie Hilarious! RT @FirstGlanceFilm: I’ve heard that if you can get Michael Madsen, it guarantees you at least a poster at AFM #filmin140 -10:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @olilewington Do we need a special time shifted #filmin140 for our international participants? 🙂 -10:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films what time is it in EST? #filmin140 -10:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films on webpage I have it says its9:03 #filmin140 -10:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @555films It’s 10:00pm for us EST folks. #filmin140 -10:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @atlfilm365 That would be AWESOME! (but unlikely!) #filmin140 -10:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@kwild Enjoyed the discussion! #filmin140 -10:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @olilewington Are you kidding? That’s not impossible. Might have to do it on a Saturday, but it’s doable. #filmin140 -10:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films well this website I googled for the time sux then #filmin140 -10:04 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films I’ve been waiting an hour… #filmin140 -10:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster It’s 9am in Jakarta right now 😉 RT @atlfilm365: @olilewington Do we need a special time shifted #filmin140 for our int participants? 🙂 -10:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@olilewington @atlfilm365 Would be ace if it were available. Not gonna be able to do 2-3am every week! #filmin140 -10:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@ThatChrisGore I have $1 million I’d like to invest in an indie movie. What questions should I be asking the filmmakers? #filmin140 -10:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler here’s that video with Sandi and others at Tribeca Institute on making a living as a filmmaker http://bit.ly/foq65P #filmin140 -10:05 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine #filmin140 “Songs From The Nickel” Continues to be invited to global film fest, 20 N last year. http://www.fil… (cont) http://deck.ly/~YKbJf -10:06 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @ThatChrisGore Do they have To Cruise’s personal phone number… #filmin140 -10:06 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @ThatChrisGore “Do these pants make me look fat?” That’s what I’d ask… #filmin140 -10:06 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@ZekeFreek @ThatChrisGore Are you the son of David Bowie? #filmin140 -10:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @ThatChrisGore Of course Tom Cruise probably charges $1 Million to read the script #filmin140 -10:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @ThatChrisGore is it based on a comic? 😛 #filmin140 #comics -10:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster ROFL RT @FilmThreat: @ThatChrisGore “Do these pants make me look fat?” That’s what I’d ask… #filmin140 -10:07 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @ThatChrisGore Have you seen Indecent Proposal? #filmin140 -10:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @555films You may’ve missed the live panel, but the transcript always goes up on @FilmThreat.com the next day #filmin140 -10:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @ThatChrisGore You could always try asking them what their screenplay is about? And how will it make money #filmin140 -10:08 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@BigDamnHerosSir @ThatChrisGore Ask them who the lead singer of Blue Oyster Cult is. Test their ability to deal with the unexpected #filmin140 -10:09 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @FilmThreat @555films OK if I ask this transcript questions do I get any replies? #filmin140 -10:09 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@patrick_short @ThatChrisGore Questions: why do you deserve it? How awesome are you (the filmmaker)? Is your name Patrick Short? #filmin140 -10:10 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @SaveHartmans <-- Get to know these guys. Playing ATLFF11. Made a great film for a low budget and have great outreach. #filmin140 -10:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat @555films Probably not, but you could just pretend you were at the panel holding your hand up and no one called on you 😉 #filmin140 -10:11 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@lmcnelly If the majority of your money comes from family & friends, your crowdfunding is a failure. #filmin140 -10:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat Okay, been fun. Got a DVR’d Phillies-Mets game to watch. And, before you try to spoil the score, I’M NOT LOOKING! #filmin140 -10:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@WaterholeMovie Does it really matter? RT @lmcnelly: If the majority of your money comes from family & friends, your crowdfunding is a failure. #filmin140 -10:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Dustinthe1st #filmin140 will it cost million to make and will I want to see it? -10:12 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@FilmThreat That’s just normal funding RT @lmcnelly If majority of your money comes from family & friends, your crowdfunding is a failure. #filmin140 -10:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler I’m just glad I didn’t mentioning marketing first tonight… #filmin140 -10:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@POParitaville @ThatChrisGore I would ask why their movie needs to be made. If that doesn’t work, I know a great site looking for capital. 😉 #filmin140 -10:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films I have o idea what the philies mets score is #filmin140 -10:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films Just make sure their production company doesn’t have the initials c.a.s.h #filmin140 -10:14 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MOVIEMAGICIAN Just got thru sitting in on the #filmin140 panel on film finance. Learned a lot of good info toward getting my film funded. -10:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@spiph13 @ThatChrisGore #filmin140 Is this an investment or a donation? -10:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @MOVIEMAGICIAN so you have a script and michael masden has read it? #filmin140 -10:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@SaveHartmans Holla! RT @atlfilm365: @SaveHartmans <-- Get to know these guys. Playing ATLFF11. Made a great film4 lo budget& have gr8 outreach #filmin140 -10:15 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@jblockbuster that’s a good question 🙂 RT @spiph13: @ThatChrisGore #filmin140 Is this an investment or a donation? -10:16 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@ToastedSchizo @ThatChrisGore “Who is @ToastedSchizo and where can I find him?” #filmin140 -10:16 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films I did meet michael masden and pitched him a billion dollar heist movie #filmin140 -10:16 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @LionStarFilms @FilmClosings @atlfilm365 My problem is my pockets do no have $10K to $25K but $10 to $25 #filmin140 -10:17 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Mrmonkeyman8118 @ThatChrisGore Can I sleep my way into a bigger budget? #filmin140 -10:17 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MOVIEMAGICIAN @555films lol! still writing the script, but haven’t approached Mr. Madsen yet. Gotta come up with a spare 10K first. #filmin140 -10:17 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@lmcnelly Yes RT @WaterholeMovie: Does it really matter? RT @lmcnelly: If the maj comes from fam & friends, your crowdfunding is a failure. #filmin140 -10:18 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @lmcnelly @WaterholeMovie You could get family and friends to donate via crowd funding site but you will lose money doing that #filmin140 -10:20 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@LMTMandi “Will it have zombies?” #filmin140 -10:20 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@alexesther @ThatChrisGore Will this project be a buy,rent, or pass? #filmin140 -10:20 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @kathy360 @atlfilm365 @lmcnelly I don’t think it matters where you get the money but if you get the money is the problem #filmin140 -10:21 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @LMTMandi Isn’t it mandatory for all indie films to have zombies #filmin140 -10:21 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @FilmFanatique @atlfilm365 largest minority yes but as far as filmmakers I would say no. #filmin140 -10:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@documentarycine sending a thank you to the those that setup #filmin140, wishing you the best.. film is still a shared experience/nite. -10:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films I have a script about a hollywood agent who dies and comes back as a zombie #filmin140 -10:22 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler anyone interested in hearing @MorganSpurlock talk about branding for Greatest Movie Ever Sold, watch this http://bit.ly/h7tu6T #filmin140 -10:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films just remembered I was cooking pasta #filmin140 -10:24 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@lmcnelly And audience RT @555films: You could get family and friends to donate via crowd funding site but you will lose money doing that #filmin140 -10:25 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 About to head out, but again, you can always hit up me, @shericandler or @FilmThreat with #filmin140 ideas. What do you want to know? -10:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Knightd427 @ThatChrisGore I’d ask to see a portfolio of work from every dept head involved, writing, cos design, SFX, makeup (if applicable) #filmin140 -10:28 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@atlfilm365 You can also post thoughts, related links to tonight’s topic and suggestions on the #filmin140 Facebook page: http://on.fb.me/hyU1NI -10:29 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @THEREALADM 3 young women with beautiful violent hues trying to outrace their past. #indiegogo #filmin140 http://ow.ly/4nmsr -10:30 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@ThatChrisGore My intention in asking the $1 million question was to get filmmakers thinking like the audience they’re pitching to. #filmin140 -10:32 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@fritchbeetle Is the story good? Is it relevant? Is the creative team not only competent but stellar? Will it sell? #filmin140 cc: @ThatChrisGore -10:40 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@gottabezac @ThatChrisGore less is more or more is less? #filmin140 -10:41 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes did anybody get some contributions while doing the panel on their #crowdfuding campaign #indiegogo #kickstater #filmin140 http://ow.ly/4nmsr -10:43 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@bnchile4444 @ThatKevinSmith RT @ThatChrisGore intention in asking $1million ? was 2 get filmmakers thinking like audience they’re pitchin 2 #filmin140 -10:44 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @MrSifuentes nope http://www.indiegogo.com/megachrist #filmin140 -10:44 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes did anybody get some funds while doing the panel on their #crowdfunding campaign #indiegogo #kickstarter #filmin140 http://ow.ly/4nmsr -10:44 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@Slam277 @ThatChrisGore ask “What are your feelings about Nazi Zombies in Space?” #filmin140 -10:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@sokap1 If we had some bacon we could make bacon and eggs if we had some eggs #filmin140 -10:46 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @sokap1 right but you’re forgetting the sausages… and the chips #filmin140 -10:47 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@mailorderhero @ThatChrisGore what does this movie bring to the table? #filmin140 -10:49 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@sokap1 If someone offered you a presale for 50% of the value of the future earnings of NYC what would you sell it for? #filmin140 -10:51 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@sokap1 What would Chicago be worth? Or small town USA? Split it up + Carve it out! #crowdfunding #filmin140 -10:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @sokap1 is that for a movie that has no cast, no director and has not been shot yet? #filmin140 -10:53 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @sokap1 In the UK chicago would be seen as foreign sales #filmin140 -10:55 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @sokap1 Wouldn’t it be easier to split things up on states in the USA rather than cities? #filmin140 -10:59 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films @Slam277 @ThatChrisGore Nazi’s don’t really bother me as I wasn’t born in the 1940’s as for zombies in space best place for them #filmin140 -11:01 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@555films I think to make money from crowd funding you need a good video for instance this one http://tinyurl.com/4a9zyms #filmin140 -11:03 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@shericandler bonus for taking part in #filmin140 lots & lots of new followers. Hi everyone. I don’t autofollow, but I will if you speak to me regularly -11:13 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@meatballs999 #filmin140 ask how they would have made “the tourist” better… How could u have two huge names and the movie still suck? -11:18 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MrSifuentes @555films a compelling video pitch is imperative! #filmin140 -11:23 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@docsinprogress Darn tootin! RT @creativecap: what’s the 1 area u feel filmmakers could educate themselves: thinking abt mktg from very beginning #filmin140 -11:27 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@movieangel Don’t forget @lmcnelly & @Philontilt ! RT @NoRestrictions @jp_cubish: Are there any notable examples of successful crowd funding? #filmin140 -11:56 PM Apr 6th, 2011

@MeghanElder Good tip. RT @creativecap: Look for grants based on the content of your film, not just grants for filmmaking. #filmin140 -12:00 AM Apr 7th, 2011

@wvfilmmaker @ThatChrisGore – first question is does the filmmaker know which audience(s) they are attracting #filmin140 btw I love My Big Fat.. On DVD -12:54 AM Apr 7th, 2011

@wvfilmmaker Thank you @shericandler for posting @MorganSpurlock ‘s TEDtalk about branding http://t.co/2RmvzZN #filmin140 http://t.co/4nw8mRC -1:20 AM Apr 7th, 2011

@lmcnelly Uh…dozens? RT @jp_cubish: Are there any notable examples of successful crowd funding? #filmin140 -1:25 AM Apr 7th, 2011

@olilewington Despite hanging by my chinstraps this morning, taking part in #filmin140 last night was incredibly useful and enlightening. -4:47 AM Apr 7th, 2011

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  1. mindy affrime says:

    Now seriously….passionate filmmakers will find passionate audiences! Check out the new Passionate Filmmaker tool box… or email Corinne Bourdeau at corinne@360degreecomm.net for more info

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