Anurag’s Tips on Indie Film Making
Extended cut
Interview Link: https://youtu.be/YJxNWQsORAw?si=qb4tTddKZmIM7m0p
First Ten minutes
How to Make a Low-Budget Film: Practical Insights
In filmmaking, writing is the foundation. For filmmakers without a significant budget, there are specific strategies that can lead to successful storytelling while keeping costs low. Below are some key takeaways for writing and producing a film when funds are limited.
1. Start by Writing
The most important element of filmmaking is writing. The best way to write is to simply start. Once you find an idea that excites you, build around it, keeping the narrative personal and manageable. Try to avoid any expensive elements like CGI or large sets. Instead, use minimal locations that are easily accessible or can be borrowed. For instance, in some indie films, entire stories unfold in just one or two locations, like the French film The Dinner Game, which takes place mostly in a single room. By keeping the script grounded in reality and minimizing costly scenes, you create a manageable project.
2. Work Around Budget Constraints
When you know certain things aren’t feasible due to financial constraints, it forces your creativity to bloom. For instance, filmmakers in countries like Iran have navigated strict laws to create more impactful films by working around limitations. Similarly, if you know you can’t afford certain things, avoid including them in the script. This kind of strategic writing can actually elevate the film by focusing on essential, creative solutions.
3. Use Guerrilla Filmmaking Techniques
A classic example of low-budget filmmaking is the use of guerrilla-style shooting. For instance, the film That Girl in Yellow Boots involved scenes shot using hidden cameras in real locations without permits. The script was written with these constraints in mind, ensuring that the scenes could be shot in public spaces like streets, using minimal crew and equipment. This approach keeps production costs low and allows you to capture authentic locations without the need for expensive setups.
4. Use Familiar Spaces
Shooting in your own home or the homes of friends is another great way to reduce costs. For instance, a large portion of That Girl in Yellow Boots was filmed in the director’s house, using the building’s elevator and other spaces. Convince people around you to lend their spaces or props for the film. This includes casting actors who are willing to work for free and even bring their own costumes.
5. Minimal Equipment and Resources
Gather a team of passionate people who are willing to contribute their own resources — whether it’s lighting, props, or equipment. Actors can bring their own clothes and food to the set, and everyone can take on multiple roles. The idea is to assemble a group of people who share the same commitment to getting the film made. This collaboration will keep the project moving forward without needing external funding.
6. Maximize Real Locations
The key to making a film feel expansive on a small budget is to use real locations creatively. For example, by shooting during festivals like Diwali, the film automatically gains vibrant, lit-up streets without the need for expensive lighting setups. Similarly, shooting in crowded markets or other public spaces adds realism and depth to the scenes without costing a fortune. By keeping the camera at a distance, you can shoot authentic interactions and settings, which also provides the benefit of free extras as people naturally move in and out of frame.
7. Think Creatively About Locations
Find dilapidated houses or abandoned places where owners are happy to let you shoot for minimal compensation. These locations not only serve as your set but can also double as your production office. Be resourceful and use places that are already available, making sure the film looks big and visually compelling despite the lack of funds.
8. Honesty in Acting
When it comes to casting, choose actors who look the part to minimize makeup and costume changes. Opt for performances that are as real and raw as possible, casting individuals who naturally fit the role. This avoids the need for expensive transformations and keeps the film grounded.
9. Be Resourceful
The key to making a film on a low budget is resourcefulness. Everything from props to lighting can be improvised, borrowed, or repurposed. Filmmakers often borrow items from cast members or friends, and every piece of equipment — whether it’s a searchlight or a microphone — is contributed by the team.
10. Sometimes, You Need to Be Unreasonable
In the pursuit of creating something meaningful, filmmakers often come across as unreasonable. This is especially true when making films under tight constraints. However, it’s essential to remain focused on the goal. Let others have their say, but stay firm on your vision. Once the film is complete, people will understand the lengths you went to in order to bring your story to life.
Next 10 Minutes
Creating independent films, especially with limited resources, requires more than just talent and vision — it demands an unwavering passion, resourcefulness, and the ability to collaborate. Often, the road to realizing your creative vision isn’t a smooth one. There will be naysayers, financial constraints, and moments of self-doubt. However, the ability to persevere and find innovative solutions is what distinguishes filmmakers who succeed from those who give up.
Defying Expectations
One of the first challenges an independent filmmaker faces is pressure to conform to commercial standards. Many filmmakers feel compelled to make films that “work” or appeal to the masses. However, staying true to your creative instincts is critical. While others may not understand your vision initially, it’s often only after a film is complete that people begin to appreciate it. As a filmmaker, you should focus on bringing your ideas to life rather than appeasing critics or industry gatekeepers.
Many successful filmmakers have made films that no one initially believed in. They were labeled as stubborn or uncommercial. But those films ended up finding their audience. It’s important to remember that while people may be skeptical, the final product speaks for itself. If the end result resonates with people, they will appreciate it. If it doesn’t, criticism is inevitable — but that’s the risk of creating art.
Resourcefulness in Filmmaking
In the era before digital filmmaking, filmmakers would often shoot on “end bits” — the leftover film stock from other productions. These scraps were enough to create Academy Award-nominated short films. Today, while the tools of filmmaking have evolved, the need for resourcefulness remains the same.
Being resourceful doesn’t mean cutting corners — it means knowing exactly what you want and finding creative ways to get it. Whether it’s borrowing equipment, using free studio time, or getting talented friends to help with post-production, independent filmmaking is about making the most of what’s available. Many successful films were made with minimal resources but thrived because of the dedication and creativity of their teams.
Collaboration and Support
Filmmaking is never a solo endeavor. The most successful independent filmmakers understand the importance of collaboration. If you give your time and skills to others, they will return the favor when you need help. For example, many actors, musicians, and crew members have worked for free or reduced fees on independent projects simply because they believed in the vision. In return, they often receive a share of the film’s profits.
However, it’s crucial to be honest with your collaborators from the beginning. Let them know if the budget is limited or if you can’t pay them upfront. People are more likely to help if they believe in the project and trust the filmmaker. Avoid working with anyone who seems to be doing you a favor, as they may create problems later on.
Utilizing Free Time and Space
In the world of independent cinema, flexibility is key. You may not have access to a studio or editing suite for 24 hours, but you can still get your work done by using free time in other people’s schedules. Many post-production houses and studios have downtime between larger projects, and they may let you use their facilities for free or at a discounted rate during those periods.
It’s important to build relationships with professionals in the industry, from sound designers to editors. Often, it’s not the big names who will help you, but their assistants — people who are hungry for an opportunity to prove themselves. These individuals, who have been waiting in the wings, are eager to showcase their talents and might be willing to work on your project for free or at a low cost.
Passion as Currency
In the absence of money, passion becomes the most valuable currency. When you are passionate about your project, it becomes contagious, and others will be drawn to your energy. Filmmakers, musicians, editors, and designers are all creative people who are often looking for meaningful projects to work on. If you can convey your excitement and dedication, you’ll find others who are just as excited to help bring your vision to life.
A great example of this is the making of Stanley Ka Dabba, a film that was shot over the course of a year, every Saturday, with a small team. The cinematographer was a still photographer, but his ability to use the camera effectively brought the director’s vision to life. It’s this kind of dedication and ingenuity that makes independent films stand out.
Finding an Audience
Once your film is made, the next challenge is getting it in front of an audience. In today’s digital world, there are more platforms than ever to showcase your work. YouTube, Vimeo, and other streaming services provide opportunities for independent filmmakers to reach viewers without the need for traditional distribution deals.
However, it’s important to remember that no one owes you anything. Just because you’ve poured your heart and soul into a film doesn’t mean people will automatically watch it. You need to actively promote your film. This can be done through guerrilla marketing tactics — creating viral videos, putting up posters, or organizing screenings in unconventional locations.
Many filmmakers have also found success by being transparent with their audience about the financial struggles they face. One example is the film Four Eyed Monsters, where the filmmakers asked viewers for donations to help them pay off their credit card debt. By engaging their audience and making them a part of the journey, they were able to secure funding for their next project.
Last 10 minutes
How to Break into Filmmaking: A Guide to Success for Aspiring Filmmakers
Breaking into the film industry can feel like an uphill battle, especially if you don’t come from a well-connected background. But with the right mindset, persistence, and strategic planning, you can carve out your own path. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the journey of becoming a successful filmmaker.
1. Build Your Audience
Before worrying about monetizing your work, focus on building an audience. You don’t need a massive budget or high-end connections to reach people. By getting your first film seen, you can set the foundation for future projects. Go viral — upload your film online and make it accessible everywhere. The more people watch it and talk about it, the more opportunities you’ll create for yourself.
2. Investment: The Foundation of Your Career
Investing in your craft is essential. When your friends are spending money on clubbing or parties, save up. Sacrifice luxuries for long-term gains. Use your savings to buy essential equipment like a good-quality camera that you can afford, such as a small SLR or a Canon 5D. This investment in tools will enable you to shoot your films independently.
Success requires delayed gratification. You might envy your peers enjoying life while you stay home, but that frustration can fuel your creativity. Channel it into your work and continue saving up. The rewards will come — whether it’s being able to produce better films or eventually buying your own home, as one filmmaker did after 19 years in the industry.
3. Persistence is Key
To stand out in the film industry, you must keep working. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you — create them by making short films. Show your dedication and skill through your work. Filmmakers are attracted to individuals who don’t give up easily. Talent alone won’t get you far if you don’t have the perseverance to back it up.
Remember, no one is going to hire you just because you want to work with them. You need something to show for yourself — something that showcases your skills. Filmmakers often look for assistants or collaborators who bring their own unique perspectives to the table. It’s a two-way street: they should be able to learn from you as much as you learn from them.
4. Prioritize Storytelling Over Technique
When directing, it’s easy to get caught up in trying to imitate big names like Christopher Nolan or Darren Aronofsky, but your priority should be telling the story. Fancy camera movements and elaborate shots are secondary to the characters and the plot.
A great example of this comes from a documentary where, instead of using expensive cranes or trolleys, the filmmakers improvised. They used a bicycle to follow an actor, capturing natural moments. The key is to rehearse with your actors and create authentic moments without drawing too much attention. Focus on capturing the essence of the scene rather than getting the perfect shot.
5. The Importance of Film Festivals
Film festivals are one of the best ways to get your film seen, especially if you’re an independent filmmaker. However, understanding how festivals work is crucial. Big festivals like Sundance and SXSW often won’t accept films that have already been screened at smaller festivals.
Start by researching and targeting independent film festivals that support emerging filmmakers. Festivals like Rotterdam, Tallinn, or smaller indie festivals can offer the exposure and networking opportunities you need to grow. Remember that filling out a form is not enough. Festivals receive thousands of submissions, and often, many films don’t even make it to the top selectors. You need to ensure your film gets seen by the right people.
Send personalized emails to the festival selectors and establish connections. Once your film is seen, it’s all about its merit. But it’s up to you to ensure that the right people watch it.
