Indie Film Podcast

Why does romance in movies so often feel fake — even when everything looks right on screen?In this episode of Indie Film Podcast, Chuck and Victoria unpack why on-screen romance frequently falls flat, how filmmakers get trapped by bad movie tropes, and why intensity is so often mistaken for real intimacy. This isn’t a rom-com takedown, and it’s definitely not a “how to write romance” lecture. It’s a conversation about storytelling, film craft, and set realities that affect every genre.We talk about:Why romance is often shoehorned into stories where it doesn’t belongHow familiar tropes quietly sabotage otherwise strong filmsThe difference between emotional intensity and genuine intimacy on screenWhy intimacy coordinators exist (and how they actually contribute to storytelling)How set safety, trust, and clear communication lead to more believable performancesWhy indie films are uniquely positioned to do romance better than HollywoodWhether you’re writing, directing, producing, or editing an indie film, this episode is about recognizing when something “doesn’t play”, and understanding why audiences feel it immediately, even if they can’t explain it.A craft-focused conversation for filmmakers who want their stories (romantic or not) to feel honest, grounded, and real._____________________________________Show Links:Faking It with Ariel and Morgan: https://www.fakingitthepod.com/Faking It (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_6QvzWCYmnNusquGAynhOwFaking It (Insta): https://www.instagram.com/fakingitthepod/Faking It (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/32YQgLGp8G6YCRPcuYCAnTFilmmaker of the Week, Karin Trachtenberg: https://www.karintrachtenberg.com/directing_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 

How do you promote your film with confidence, without letting ego get in the way?In this episode of Indie Film Podcast, we explore the fine line between ego and confidence in filmmaking, and how that line can quietly impact feedback, collaboration, networking, and long-term creative growth.Indie Film Podcast | S2E06We talk about:The difference between ego, confidence, and imposter syndromeWhy filmmakers sometimes ignore feedback without realizing itHow to network at film festivals without feeling fake or transactionalPromoting your film without burning bridgesWhat humility looks like on professional film setsWhy self-awareness matters more than talent aloneThis is a reflective, honest conversation for indie filmmakers who want to improve their craft, work better with others, and build sustainable careers in film.Indie Film Podcast focuses on the real mistakes, lessons, and behind-the-scenes realities of independent filmmaking, so you can learn from what went wrong, not just what went right._____________________________________Show Links:Filmmaker of the Week, Maria Tran and the Echo8 Trilogy: https://www.echo8trilogy.com/ _____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 

“We’ll fix it in post.” It’s one of the most common phrases in indie filmmaking, and one of the most dangerous.In this episode of Indie Film Podcast, we break down the post-production mistakes that make indie films look cheap, even when everything seemed fine on set. From color grading myths and LUT culture to audio mistakes, ADR pitfalls, and disorganized edit workflows, we’re talking honestly about what post-production can’t fix, and what actually makes a low-budget film feel intentional and professional.This episode wraps up our cheap vs inexpensive filmmaking series by focusing on where many indie films quietly fall apart: post-production. We share real mistakes we’ve made, lessons learned the hard way, and practical advice for indie filmmakers who want their films to land well, not embarrassingly.If you’re an indie filmmaker trying to avoid the “fix it in post” trap, this conversation is for you._____________________________________Show Links:Big Lebowski (TV Overdub) https://youtu.be/IQUdJ6FdUQ0?si=-rkgCPJ4TML-JNVgSnakes on a Plan (TV Overdub) https://youtu.be/z4t6zNZ-b0A?si=JKvy_6ZIT0-TuqRK Filmmaker of the Week, Andy Blithe (Aturn Films) https://www.youtube.com/@aturnfilmsP’Luck: Rise of the Twee’zors https://youtu.be/5bIMsha-eRY?si=JipbWodSEOLzyJI6 _____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73sAVvvHVMl7KwoYc4zTxoGet Featured on the Pod: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit

How do low budget films end up looking expensive, without spending more money? This episode breaks down the production decisions and on-set habits that actually determine whether a film looks polished or painfully cheap.Part two of our Cheap vs. Inexpensive Filmmaking series, this conversation focuses on production: Why budget doesn’t predict quality, how big-budget films still fail, and what indie filmmakers can do to make smarter choices on set._____________________________________Show links:Canyon County Web Series:  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV8r3i4wLP4-wfbUrzVYCgU51Xpg2AoTY&si=bFCqOnLKdM3FttvoThe Man Who Would Not Shake Hands: https://youtu.be/8QPzwr5-txY?si=maM2582BQin-o3BaTwomancrew: https://youtu.be/Zs6X4b9Ij1Y?si=NSZB-UEVNfHID597Chit Chat Web Series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV8r3i4wLP48aH-qx8xlqLymMNJsUF8aF&si=4798m5KmLpZvwO_YFilmmaker of the week, Frank Merle: https://www.instagram.com/frankmerle/_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73sAVvvHVMl7KwoYc4zTxoGet Featured on the Pod: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit

Cheap filmmaking vs inexpensive filmmaking is one of the biggest (and most misunderstood) differences in indie film production.In this episode of Indie Film Podcast, we break down why so many low-budget films look cheap before the camera ever rolls. Kicking off a new series on cheap vs inexpensive filmmaking, we focus on pre-production decisions that quietly determine whether a film looks intentional or amateur.We talk through real mistakes we’ve made ourselves, including writing outside our budget, skipping rehearsals, under-planning locations, overcomplicating scripts, and relying on DIY solutions that created more problems than they solved. We also share practical strategies for planning smarter, collaborating better, and making inexpensive films look high quality without burning out your cast, crew, or budget.This episode is ideal for indie filmmakers, first-time directors, and anyone working on a low-budget or microbudget film who wants to avoid common pre-production pitfalls and make stronger creative choices from the start.This is Part 1 of a three-episode series exploring the difference between cheap filmmaking and inexpensive filmmaking_____________________________________Show Links:Goodfellas Copa Tracking Shot: https://youtu.be/JVDC95rprFs?si=u9CuquIkvZCV_FgP What’s the Worst That Could Happen? https://youtu.be/rNnRUQwilys Featured Filmmaker of the Week: Janae Rachel Ballot https://www.instagram.com/janae_ballot_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072

Burnout in indie filmmaking doesn’t always hit all at once. Sometimes it builds quietly, through overcommitment, creative exhaustion, and the pressure to always do more. And before you know it, the work you love stops being fun.In this episode of the Indie Film Podcast (S2E02), we talk honestly about burnout: sharing personal stories from post-pandemic projects, unpacking unrealistic productivity expectations, and exploring why burnout can linger even after your workload lightens. We also discuss dangerous filmmaking myths, hard-earned technical lessons, and what it really looks like to set boundaries without walking away from film entirely.This episode covers:Burnout and creative exhaustion in indie filmmakingWearing too many hats and overcommittingPost-pandemic hustle cultureA humbling lesson about Poly WAV audio filesIndustry news on movie theaters and changing audience behaviorFilmmaker of the Week: Trisha Furhman on self-reflection and growth_____________________________________Links & resources:Submit Your Story: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submitTheaters are making a comeback: https://cinemaunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Strength-of-Theatrical-Exhibition-December-2025-Update.pdf_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 

"Become a better filmmaker” sounds like a great resolution, until it leads to burnout and unfinished projects. In this episode, we break down why vague filmmaking goals fail, how indie filmmakers accidentally sabotage themselves, and what to do instead to set realistic, sustainable goals you can actually finish. _____________________________________Links & resources:Submit Your Story: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submitLearn about Idaho’s next horror feature at www.lowergentrystudios.com Victoria’s favorite After Effects tutorials: www.videocopilot.net _____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73sAVvvHVMl7KwoYc4zTxo

Micro-budget filmmaking doesn’t mean working with junk gear. In this season finale, we break down the affordable filmmaking tools, budget gear, and DIY hacks we actually use on real indie film sets; from organization tricks and cheap equipment that punches above its weight, to the pricier tools that truly earn their keep.We’re talking binders and coverage maps, pawn-shop vintage lenses, favorite audio recorders and shotgun mics, affordable gimbals, post-production plugins, and the low-cost gadgets that saved our sanity more times than we can count.If you’re a micro-budget or indie filmmaker looking to build your toolkit without breaking the bank, this episode is packed with real recommendations, honest lessons, and a few chaotic stories along the way.Want our shot list and film budget templates for free? Subscribe to the newsletter at: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com

The Hallmark movie formula meets indie filmmaking tips in this holiday episode packed with low-budget filmmaking lessons. Hallmark releases 52 movies a year, and behind the tropes, timelines, and predictable plots is one of the most efficient production models in modern film. In today’s episode, we break down how Hallmark movies are made so quickly, why their formula works, and what indie filmmakers can actually learn from the machine.We’re talking:How Hallmark films shoot full features in 2–3 weeksThe ROI behind Hallmark’s simple, repeatable structureProduction, branding, and budgeting strategies indies can stealTropes, casting patterns, and resource-based writingA chaotic Hallmark quiz featuring pears, corn mazes, and questionable AI plotlinesWhy we hate it…and how we still learned from itWhether you love Hallmark movies, love to roast them, or love understanding the business behind low-budget filmmaking, this episode breaks down the “secret Hallmark playbook” in a way only indie filmmakers can appreciate._____________________________________Show Links:Join our newsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072Read more about Hallmark Stats: https://medium.com/@andrewnord/the-science-behind-hallmark-movies-what-data-from-478-movies-tells-us-4e7a61ad8901_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072

Dream budgets vs. DIY reality, Victoria and Chuck share real-world indie film budgeting tips for filmmakers trying to stretch every dollar. From rewriting scripts to managing micro-budget films, learn how to make your movie happen even when your wallet says “nope.”_____________________________________Show Links:Get the free Indie Film Budget Template: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072Chuck’s “3 Day Bender” Micro Short: https://youtu.be/7qvDLS8i-6s?si=DUjTkLZDiAM4rPQ6 _____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comGet Featured on the Pod: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit

How do you feed your film crew on a budget, without losing your sanity? In this week’s Indie Film Podcast, Victoria and Chuck swap the best (and worst) craft services stories from indie film sets. From mystery-meat leftovers to Little Caesars fatigue and the legendary dumpster-diving dinner, they unpack what makes a set feel professional…or profoundly cursed.You’ll hear about clever budget-friendly food hacks, when homemade meals are a red or green flag, and how to score free food through sponsorships or trades. Whether you’re filming your first short or hustling through your fifth feature, this episode will show you how to feed your cast and crew well without breaking the bank, and maybe save you from a soggy wrap tragedy along the way.Real talk, indie spirit, and calories that count._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072

Film festival strategy for indie filmmakers: How we turned a $250 short film into an Academy Award-qualifying success. No connections, no nepotism, just smart submissions. Learn how to build a realistic film festival plan, boost your acceptance rate, budget wisely, and survive rejection season with your sanity (mostly) intact. And, some obligatory stories about how many ways we’ve messed up our festival submission plans with past films._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: (https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072) Get Featured on the Pod: (https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit) 

Set design on a budget doesn’t have to look cheap, it just takes creativity, caffeine, and a few questionable choices. In this episode, Chuck and Victoria share the DIY art department lessons they learned the hard way while making low-budget films, and inspiration from our favorite horror films.From fake-blood disasters to finding perfect free locations, they unpack what horror movies can teach us about production design, and how a scrappy indie film set can look cinematic with the right ideas (and maybe a mop)._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: (https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072) Get Featured on the Pod: (https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit) 

Indie film set safety isn’t just a formality, it’s survival. In this episode, Victoria and Chuck unpack real filmmaking accidents, near-misses, and the hard lessons learned from low-budget horror shoots gone wrong.From flying axes and “props” that weren’t to tips from professional stunt coordinators, this conversation covers everything you need to know about prop safety, stunt coordination, and keeping your cast and crew safe on set.Featuring practical advice, wild behind-the-scenes stories, and a healthy dose of dark humor, this episode proves that the scariest part of filmmaking should stay on camera._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: (https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072) Get Featured on the Pod: (https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit)

Indie film sound design meets horror filmmaking in this spine-tingling episode of Indie Film Podcast. Chuck and Victoria break down how horror movies use sound to build fear, tension, and emotion, and how you can apply the same tricks in your own indie projects (no matter what your genre of film!)From low frequencies that make your hair stand on end to eerie silences that say more than dialogue, this episode dives deep into the craft of sound design for filmmakers. Chuck even creates an original audio-only horror scene to prove that the right sound can tell an entire story on its own.We’ll explore:Horror sound design techniques from The Shining, Psycho, A Quiet Place, and moreThe science behind low and high frequencies that trigger fearDIY recording, layering, and Foley tips for indie filmmakersUsing J-cuts and L-cuts to edit for tensionAvoiding AI cleanup mistakes that ruin ambiencePerfect for indie filmmakers, editors, and sound designers looking to master the art of cinematic audio on a budget._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: (https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072) Get Featured on the Pod: (https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit) 

Screenwriting tips meet horror writing lessons in this episode of the Indie Film Podcast! Chuck and Victoria explore the 10 most inherently compelling scenes used by horror films, from being chased to being trapped, and show how you can use them in any genre.Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, aspiring screenwriter, or author searching for inspiration, horror films are a masterclass in tension and storytelling. We break down examples from iconic horror movies, explain why they work, and share how you can adapt these setups into your own scripts and indie projects.In this episode:Why horror is the best “training ground” for great screenwritingHow 10 classic horror setups can inspire scripts in any genreExamples from iconic horror films, and what makes them workPractical tips for indie filmmakers and writers to apply these lessonsOur personal fails trying these situations, and what they taught usHorror movies might make us scream, but they also teach us how to keep audiences hooked. No matter what genre you’re working in, these lessons will help you write more compelling scenes and stronger stories.____________________________________Show Links:Get Featured on Indie Film Podcast: (https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submit)Christopher Nolan Breaks the 180 Rule, too: (https://www.polygon.com/2018/7/20/17583276/the-dark-knight-joker-chase-scene-editing/)Where There Is Love There Is Life: (https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CFGpgXYKr/)_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: (https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072) 

Indie film contracts and legal pitfalls can make or break your project. In this episode, Victoria and Chuck talk with filmmaker and lawyer Ellen Smith about the not-so-glamorous (but absolutely essential) legal side of filmmaking. From actor release forms and image rights to NDAs, SAG vs. non-union contracts, and distribution deals, Ellen breaks down what every filmmaker needs to know before stepping on set—yes, even if you’re an actor.We cover:Why bad contracts can sink good filmsCommon legal mistakes indie filmmakers make (and how to avoid them)Affordable ways to protect your film without a massive budgetHow contracts serve as safety nets, not obstaclesReal-life legal horror stories from film setsWhether you’re a film student, first-time filmmaker, or seasoned indie director, this episode will help you protect your work, your collaborators, and your future projects.

Most indie filmmakers make one mistake: they market too late. In this episode, we break down indie film marketing strategies that actually work (and some lessons we’ve learned by doing everything wrong the first time). From film festival submission strategies to streaming platform navigation, the number one way to success is to build your audience early. Learn how to avoid common mistakes, grow viewership, and market your indie film smarter.____________________________________Show Links:This week’s episode is sponsored by the Spark of Madness Film Festival, happening in Pocatello, ID in May 2026. Submit your film or learn more at: https://sparkofmadnessfilmfestival.com/ Subscribe to the Indie Film Podcast newsletter for free tools, additional filmmaking insights, and behind the scenes exclusives: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 

Indie film budgeting nightmares? Discover how to survive unexpected costs and fix costly surprises on set. In this episode of the Indie Film Podcast, Chuck and Victoria share real stories of budget meltdowns on micro-budget film sets, from hidden production costs to unexpected emergencies. Learn how to avoid common budgeting mistakes, stretch a small budget, and keep your film on track when money runs out. Perfect for indie filmmakers facing the chaos of DIY filmmaking.This episode covers:The most common unexpected costs in indie filmmakingWhy every budget needs a contingency planReal-life examples of budget meltdowns on setTips for stretching a micro-budget without losing qualityHow to fix costly surprises before they kill your project_____________________________________Show Links:This week’s episode is sponsored by the From Beyond Film Festival, happening in Boise, ID on October 12th. Submit your film or learn more at: https://www.frombeyondfilmfest.com/The full length short, The Man Who Would Not Shake Hands, is available on YouTube for free at: The Man Who Would Not Shake Hands - The smoking visual effects begin at 08:09.

When your indie film fundraising fails, what’s next? Chuck and Victoria share survival stories, budget-saving tips, and lessons every filmmaker can use when the money runs out. Perfect for student filmmakers, indie directors, and cinephiles who want the real story behind low-budget moviemaking.Check out The Man Who Would Not Shake Hands, free on YouTube: (https://youtu.be/8QPzwr5-txY)