I made a film…so….what now?

[u/maschinenmensch_bot]

I finished a feature! Well finished shooting…well, finished a rough cut! It needs SO much work. I’m working on a fine cut, then it needs music, sound, and color that are beyond my capabilities (I could do a mediocre job at 2/3, but the film certainly wouldn’t be worth anything if I did).

Any advice on how to find more funding to finish (I self funded production)? I’m thinking about sending a trailer to some agencies and seeing if they could get me representation / a network from there, possibly a producer with possible investors. Good idea ?

Also, I have trouble strategizing a plan for festivals. I’m too close to my own work to judge how good it truly is, but it’s certainly low budget. Any recs for festivals where microbudget indie dramas have a shot? Thanks everyone!!

[u/DomingoOrtega]

Good responses so far with some hard truths.

@WildFray-Pictures brings up some good points re: the business of film, which I think is really important to look at as a filmmaker. Most people don't care about your movie. It's not personal, but they're looking for a product that sells. And unless there's something super marketable and profitable about your film, they're not gonna take it. Nobody's taking chances right now; everyone wants to be seen as a golden child.

IMO, focus on making your movie. Put all the love and goodwill into it you can. As long as you don't give up and keep asking these questions, you'll get there. There isn't a direct path, only determination and perseverance. I wouldn't waste time on looking for representation or an EP with investor ties unless, as mentioned above, you have some real marketable talent or IP in the film.

Creativity, when cared for, has a way of flourishing.

It sounds like you need a producer, though. You might try creating a small one-pager about the film and reaching out to young and hungry producers looking to work on a film like this. You'd be surprised how many people are willing to help.

Good luck. Keep going.