Truly Independent: Demystifying the Indie Film Journey

This week on Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith get real about one of the most important (and messy) parts of an independent film career: knowing when to say yes—and when to say no.Garrett shares how a surprise opportunity pulled him out of the country to Antigua for a location + logistics scout, and what it revealed about infrastructure, budget reality, and whether a “beautiful location” is actually worth the production pain.Then the conversation shifts to Daren’s current decisions on Brotherhood—how to structure production to stay high-level, protect investor priorities, and evaluate partnerships (including distribution relationships) without losing momentum.If you’re juggling multiple projects, dealing with sudden opportunities, or trying to build a sustainable career (not just gig-to-gig work), this episode is for you.In this episode:How the Antigua scout came together (and what was learned on the ground)Momentum vs. distraction: how to tell the differenceDirector vs. producer “bandwidth” (and why it changes everything)Budget “sweet spots” and why some movies stallBrotherhood producing strategy + distribution conversationsThe reality of making movies truly independentSupported by the Help Them See FoundationHelp Them See is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection—partnering with filmmakers to bring meaningful stories to life and share them worldwide.Learn more and get involved: HelpThemSeeFoundation.org—If you’re enjoying Truly Independent, please subscribe and share so you don’t miss the rest of the journey.Edited by Michael BradfordProduced by Three Coin Productions#IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #Producing #Screenwriting #FilmFinance #LocationScouting #IndieFilmmaker

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation.Help Them See is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn how to get involved at helpthemseefoundation.org.Welcome to Season 3 of Truly Independent — I’m Garrett Batty, alongside my co-host Daren Smith. This season, it’s all about the script: from the first spark of an idea to a polished final draft, breaking it down for scheduling, budgeting, and ultimately shooting.In this episode, we zoom out from the page and look at the bigger business picture:Your film is not just a movie — it’s a product ecosystem.We talk about:How to stop thinking of your film as a single productUsing spark events/script readthroughs as investor & partner magnetsBuilding an email list and early audience before you ever hit “export trailer”Why profit = permission for your next projectHow studios think about IP, spin-offs, and long-tail exploitationThe three pillars every film needs: Production, Brand, and DistributionWe also share real-time behind-the-scenes from current projects like Brotherhood (a new musical feature), readthroughs for one of my heist comedies, and how those “invite-only” preview events are leading to real investor conversations.If you’re an indie filmmaker trying to build a sustainable career (not just survive one movie at a time), this episode is for you.🔑 Key TakeawaysYour movie is a storefront, not the only product.Think in terms of product ecosystems, not single SKUs.Spark events/script previews can generate feedback, fans, and funding.Your email list may be more valuable than your opening weekend.Every project needs strong Production, Brand, and Distribution to really be a product.The release is the beginning of exploitation, not the end.

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation – a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn more at helpthemseefoundation.org.In this episode, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith talk with cinematographer Jeremy Prusso (*The Saratov Approach, Aliens Abducted My Parents*, Hallmark movies, Benson Boon videos).They cover:• How Jeremy went from unhappy carpenter to full-time DP  • Whether film school is worth it today  • How to actually use your DP in pre-production  • Scheduling with light, location, and crew sanity in mind  If you’re an indie filmmaker or aspiring DP, this one will change how you prep your next shoot.👍 Like, 🔔 subscribe, and share with a filmmaker friend.

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith sit down with Andrew and J. Huff — the filmmaking duo behind Doc Connor. They break down how they transformed a small, bootstrapped web series into a full-length feature film, secured theatrical release, and navigated the indie distribution maze without waiting for studio approval.We cover:• How they launched their production company• Turning a kids’ web series into a feature film• Funding the project and finding partners• The realities of independent distribution• Working with streamers, brokers, and platforms• Building a brand, not just a movie• Why 2025 is a strategic year for indie theatrical releases• Tips for filmmakers creating content for kids and families• How to think like a producer and push past “no”This conversation is packed with real strategies, honest insights, and practical stories for anyone making their own path in film — whether you’re starting your first project or already grinding through distribution.

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation — a nonprofit dedicated to championing films that inspire faith, hope, and human connection. Learn more or get involved at HelpThemSeeFoundation.org.In this episode, Garrett and Darren welcome filmmaker Ross Booth to officially announce Brotherhood — a new cinematic musical now greenlit for production through Producer Fund One. We walk through how this project came together from a single idea to active development, the power of outlining and early audience read-throughs, and the principle of enrollment—why the right people show up when a story resonates deeply.If independent filmmaking, meaningful storytelling, or following a project from script to screen interests you, this episode is an important one.Follow along / Get involved:Brotherhood updates → BrotherhoodMov.comDarren’s producing & resources → CraftsmanFilms.comGarrett & Darren on LinkedIn → Search their namesSupport the podcast:Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more independent filmmakers find this community.

Season 3 of Truly Independent is here—supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit backing feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn more or get involved: https://helpthemseefoundation.orgIn this episode, Garrett Batty and co-host Darren Smith catch up after a festival road trip (Newport Beach, AFI, Austin) and break down a practical strategy that’s outperforming cold pitches: salon-style investor lunches. Then we tackle a big topic every filmmaker feels—the supply & demand imbalance—and how to align passion projects with real marketplace demand without selling your soul. We also dig into rights/ownership and why finished projects with clean rights win.If you’re writing, producing, or trying to raise money for your film, this one’s for you.👍 If you find value here, please like, subscribe, and share—it really helps.

This episode of Truly Independent dives deep into the journey of screenwriter David Plyler, known for Outlaw Trail and Forever Strong. Hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith talk with David about his path from LA Film School to working in the indie world, his experiences writing faith-driven and character-centered stories, and what it really takes to stay creative in a business built on rejection.You’ll hear insights about:Navigating film school and learning to find your voiceBalancing art, family, and finances as a creatorBuilding real relationships instead of chasing “networking”The story behind Forever Strong and lessons from its releaseWhy persistence (and humility) are a screenwriter’s greatest tools🎧 Truly Independent is produced by Three Coin Productions and supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn more or donate at helpthemseefoundation.org.👉 Subscribe to follow along as Garrett and Daren demystify the independent filmmaking process—from script to screen.

Independent filmmaker Matt Whitaker joins Garrett Batty and co-host Daren Smith to unpack the two-decade journey behind TRUTH & TREASON—from a PBS documentary to a nationwide theatrical release. We dive into financing (crowdfunding + private equity), securing distribution, why strong legal counsel matters, casting in the UK, shooting in Lithuania with incentives, and how a teen-led resistance story became surprisingly timely today.In this episode you’ll learn:How Matt stuck with a passion project for 20+ years—and finally got it financedThe inflection points that moved partners, investors, and distributors to actPractical lessons on legal, casting, locations, and tax incentivesWhy story (not “message”) is what truly moves audiencesAbout our guest:Matt Whitaker is the co-writer/director of TRUTH & TREASON, a feature inspired by real WWII events and accompanied by a four-part series rollout.Sponsor:This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation—a nonprofit funding feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn how to support mission-driven cinema at helpthemseefoundation.org.Call to action:If you’re enjoying Truly Independent, please like, subscribe, and share. And go see TRUTH & TREASON in theaters now—bring a friend and support indie film.Credits:Edited by Michael Bradford • Produced by Three Coin Productions#IndieFilm #TruthAndTreason #AngelStudios #Filmmaking #Distribution #Storytelling #WorldWarII #IndependentFilm

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation— a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. By partnering with filmmakers, Help Them See brings meaningful stories to life and shares them with audiences worldwide. Learn more or get involved: helpthemseefoundation.org.Welcome to Season 3! I’m Garrett Batty with co-host Darren Smith. This year we go deep on the script—from spark to polished draft to scheduling, budgeting, and finally shooting. In today’s kickoff, we unpack ICVM takeaways, how to turn events into real relationships (and funding), and why low-fi read-throughs can enroll partners faster than pitch decks.What you’ll learnHow to get 50+ legit contacts in one weekend (and what to do next).A practical playbook for staged read-throughs that create momentum and funding.“Enrollment events”: what they are, why they work, and how to host your own.Recording assets early (audio/video) to supercharge pitches.Lessons from our Where the Dog Heals table read.Chapters (approx.)00:00 Cold open & Season 3 focus (the script)01:10 ICVM recap & why conferences matter07:30 Converting events into high-quality follow-ups13:40 Enrollment events: turning attention into action20:45 How to run a compelling read-through (low-fi to staged)31:20 Where the Dog Heals table read—what worked, what we’d change39:50 Capture video/audio early to enroll partners45:15 Action items for indie filmmakers49:30 What’s next + how to support the missionSupport the missionHelp Them See Foundation: helpthemseefoundation.orgSubscribe for more episodes on taking your film from page to production.CreditsEdited by Michael Bradford • Produced by Three Coin Productions

This episode of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering filmmakers who tell stories of faith, hope, and connection. Learn more or get involved at HelpThemSeeFoundation.org.🎙️ In this week’s episode, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith share an exclusive Q&A from a producer retreat at Sundance, where they screened Faith of Angels for a room full of filmmakers. They discuss the real process behind producing an independent feature—from finding the story, securing rights, and building the budget, to navigating the challenges of distribution and staying true to your mission as a storyteller.If you’re passionate about filmmaking or inspired by stories that make a difference, this one’s for you.Timestamps: 00:00 – Supported by Help Them See Foundation 01:10 – Welcome to Season 3 of Truly Independent 02:00 – Producing Faith of Angels: The Backstory 09:30 – Building a Creative Partnership in Filmmaking 17:15 – Balancing Truth and Drama in “Based on a True Story” Films 24:40 – How to Distribute a Faith-Based Feature 33:00 – Lessons from the Set and Audience Q&A

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome Emmy-nominated actor Kirby Heyborne to talk about creativity, collaboration, and the launch of the Help Them See Foundation — a new nonprofit model supporting faith-based and mission-driven films.From behind-the-scenes stories of Faith of Angels to Kirby’s powerful work on Making Good, and finally to the vision for Help Them See, this conversation highlights how independent filmmakers can elevate their work without chasing traditional investor ROI.👉 Learn how you can be part of the movement at: HelpThemSeeFoundation.org🕒 Timestamps0:00 – Sponsor intro: Help Them See Foundation1:23 – Welcoming Kirby Heyborne  3:30 – Behind the scenes of Faith of Angels casting & production8:05 – The impact of Faith of Angels reaching 1M+ views10:50 – Kirby’s Emmy-nominated Making Good series14:20 – Writing heartfelt songs under pressure for nonprofits18:45 – Launching the Help Them See Foundation23:10 – A paradigm shift: from investors to donors27:40 – How projects will be selected and supported31:15 – Why bigger budgets matter for mission-driven films34:50 – Future projects & exciting collaborations37:30 – Closing thoughts & how to get involved🔗 Resources & Links🌐 HelpThemSeeFoundation.org – Learn more, donate, or submit your project🎬 Faith of Angels – Watch the film📺 Kirby Heyborne’s Making Good on BYUtv👍 Support the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode:Like this video & Subscribe to Truly IndependentShare it with a friend who loves independent filmLeave a comment with your biggest takeaway

Check Out https://www.helpthemseefoundation.orgGarrett and Daren break down the real differences between a spec script written on speculation, no limits, showcase your voice and a production script written to be made, budget-aware, strategic. They cover when to write each, why treatments can sometimes be a smarter move, and how leverage shifts depending on your role as writer or filmmaker. Plus: updates on fall festivals and Garrett’s third act grind on Where the Dog Heals.Spec = calling card. Written to showcase voice and originality; leverage lives in story resonance.Production = blueprint. Written to be made; leverage comes from feasibility, attachments, and momentum.Treatments are better then specs (often). Easier for producers to read, faster to generate, clearer story signal.Constraints unlock creativity.  Small cast/locations can make indie projects viable.Leverage compounds. Small production scripts can open doors Nolan, Gerwig paths.CHAPTERS00:00 Festival season & October plans03:00 Defining spec vs. production scripts10:00 Budget/scope realities16:00 Portfolio specs vs. existing IP22:00 Production scripts as blueprints31:00 Camera direction dos & don’ts35:00 Why treatments often win47:00 Case studies: Nolan & Gerwig54:00 Garrett’s Where the Dog Heals update59:00 Audience-building & leverage“A spec is imagination first; a production script is logistics first.”Subscribe, comment your questions on writing specs vs. production scripts, and share this episode with a fellow filmmaker.

Navigating The Development Process in Indie Filmmaking with Joel AckermanThis episode of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, which aids filmmakers in creating impactful feature films. Hosts Daren and Garrett welcome special guest Joel Ackerman, a seasoned development expert known for his work on viral ads like Poopourri and projects with Angel Studios. Discussion topics include the role of development in film, overcoming common pitfalls in scripts, and the importance of receiving and integrating feedback. Joel shares experiences from his illustrious career, including working with Susie Cameron and navigating development 'hell.' The conversation also touches on the journey from script to screen, with insights on maintaining passion and recognizing when to move on from a project. The episode concludes with updates on ongoing projects and the importance of consistent progress in filmmaking.00:00 S3 EP03 | Audio26:37 Marker

Demystifying Sizzles: Crafting Effective Proofs of ConceptIn this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith explore the purpose and execution of 'sizzles' or 'proofs of concept' in the independent film world. Sponsored by the Help Them See Foundation, the discussion covers how sizzles can serve to attract investors, cast, and distributors, and even assist in early marketing efforts. Garrett shares his own experiences with budgeted and low-cost sizzles, emphasizing the importance of preparation and intention behind creating them. Daren adds insights on leveraging these tools for effective marketing and the potential impacts of using AI-generated content. The episode wraps up with practical advice on making sizzles part of the development process and using them to build audience interest well before a film’s release.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:27 Welcome to Season Three00:56 Casual Banter and Film-Related Shirts02:50 Today's Topic: The Sizzle03:17 Garrett's Script Writing Update07:04 Deep Dive into Sizzles10:35 The Purpose and Value of Sizzles15:02 Budgeting and Development for Sizzles21:20 Creating a Sizzle Reel: Key Elements and Execution22:04 Using Scripts and Story Elements in Sizzle Reels23:14 Budget Considerations for Sizzle Reels24:22 Alternative Approaches: AI and Lookbooks25:41 The Importance of Consistency in Sizzle Reels29:30 Practical Tips for Shooting Sizzle Reels31:02 Marketing Your Film from Day One32:30 Balancing Hype and Realism in Film Promotion35:48 Final Thoughts on Sizzle Reels

Sponsored by The Help Them See Foundation: https://www.helpthemseefoundation.orgIn this episode of Truly Independent, supported by the Help Them See Foundation, Daren and the host discuss the transition into Season 3, focusing on pre-production and scriptwriting. Starting from the writing process and different techniques, they share updates on their individual projects. Daren introduces his new project 'Where the Dog Heals', inspired by a true story about a dog diagnosed with cancer and its journey of faith and healing. He talks about his scriptwriting process, including the use of AI as a creative tool, research trips for authentic storytelling, and managing balancing writing and production constraints. The episode also touches upon exciting upcoming projects and the role of faith and community support in filmmaking.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message01:02 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans01:31 Focus of Season Three: Pre-Production and Writing02:02 Transition from Season Two to Season Three02:38 Documenting the Script Writing Process03:20 New Project: Where the Dog Heals08:31 Importance of the Script in Filmmaking09:54 Story Development Techniques16:37 Using a Story Matrix for Writing18:31 Balancing Writing and Production Constraints20:26 Budget Considerations for Writers21:53 Research and Location Scouting26:30 Collaborative Writing Process30:05 Using AI in Screenwriting35:49 Upcoming Projects and Season Preview

AI-Generated Content and Storytelling: Navigating the Landscape of Independent FilmmakingIn this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the implications of AI-generated TV shows for independent filmmakers, focusing on Fable's Showrunner app. They explore the challenges and opportunities that AI content may bring to the indie film industry and how storytellers can stand out amidst the increasing 'noise.' The episode also reflects on the successes and shortcomings of recent summer blockbusters, 'Fantastic Four' and 'Superman,' highlighting the importance of story and emotional connection in filmmaking. Finally, they share updates on their upcoming projects, including Garrett's new feature film, 'Where the Dog Heals,' and Darren's proof of concept project.00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent00:46 Catching Up on Faith of Angels01:19 Main Topic: AI in Filmmaking02:33 Understanding Fable and Showrunner04:14 Impact on Indie Filmmakers04:49 Focus, Meaning, and Action16:01 Current Projects and Future Plans20:28 Exciting New Project and Team Formation20:43 Fundraising and Production Updates21:20 Exploring Filming Locations22:03 Discussing Summer Blockbusters22:28 Fantastic Four vs. Superman: A Deep Dive24:47 Director's Influence on Film Success28:13 The Importance of Story in Movies32:28 Season Finale Reflections and Future Plans36:56 Thank You and Farewell

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith welcome independent filmmaker Graham Northrup. Graham shares his fascinating journey from being a theater educator to becoming an independent filmmaker. He discusses his decision to leave his theater career during the COVID-19 pandemic, his process of self-education in filmmaking, and the production of his debut feature film 'An Aspen Christmas Conspiracy.' The conversation covers the challenges of fundraising, production logistics, and distribution. Graham offers insights into the importance of networking, leveraging local resources, and the invaluable support of a dedicated crew. With his first feature nearly ready for distribution, Graham reflects on his goals and future plans in filmmaking.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter01:10 Introducing the Guest: Graham Northrup02:22 Graham's Journey from Theater to Film03:31 Transitioning to Filmmaking During COVID04:23 Learning the Craft: From Photography to Film School06:08 Setting Goals in the Film Industry10:59 First Feature Film: An Aspen Christmas Conspiracy15:43 The Challenges of Fundraising16:52 Securing a Fiscal Sponsor17:28 Raising Money Through Donations and Grants18:08 Low Budget Production Strategies19:12 Shooting Schedule and Crew Dynamics19:51 The Importance of a Dedicated Crew20:39 Balancing Directorial and Cinematographic Priorities21:25 Navigating Distribution Deals24:22 Lessons Learned and Future Projects28:12 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking. They introduce guest Greg Beckers, a talent manager turned producer and distributor, who shares insights into the business side of filmmaking. Greg talks about the importance of LinkedIn for networking, the challenges in talent management, the intricacies of film sales and distribution, and strategies for indie filmmakers to attach talent and recoup investments. The episode also touches on the changing genre preferences of distributors and the significance of effective marketing and sales strategies.00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent00:34 Meet Our Guest: Greg Beckers01:21 Greg's Journey into Talent Management03:17 The Role of a Talent Manager05:54 Navigating the Indie Film Industry10:31 From Talent Management to Producing12:10 The Challenges of Film Distribution15:51 Mindset Shift: From Talent Manager to Producer16:17 The Chaos of Producing16:43 Skills from Talent Management17:18 The Importance of Problem Solving17:33 The Value of Business Experience17:54 Passion for Films and Filmmaking20:57 Challenges in Distribution22:11 The Importance of Trailers28:26 Navigating Distribution Deals32:02 Connecting with Greg Becker33:31 Conclusion and Future Plans

Discovering Independent Film with Bryan Louzil of Mometu @freemometu  @mometucollegefilmfesteventbrite.com/e/1475275411469?aff=oddtcreatorIn this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith are joined by guest Bryan Louzil, co-founder of Mometu, a streaming platform focused on hand-curated independent films. Bryan shares his fascinating upbringing in the film industry, the journey of creating Mometu, and how the platform aims to support independent filmmakers by offering a marketplace free of algorithms. They discuss the intricacies of promoting films, insights for filmmakers on gaining visibility, and the unique Mometu College Film Festival. Emphasizing the importance of personalizing the viewer experience, Brian explains the benefits of setting up creative marketing strategies from the start to benefit both the platform and filmmakers. The episode wraps up with an overview of Mometu social media strategies and the launch of their new podcast, 'The More For Me and You,' dedicated to sharing the journeys of individuals in the entertainment industry.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:25 Meet Brian Louzil01:19 Brian's Background in Film03:18 The Birth of Mometu05:46 Hand-Curated Content on Mometu09:01 Supporting Independent Filmmakers22:19 Mometu College Film Festival24:05 Red Carpet Interviews and Screenings24:34 Exciting Awards and Prizes25:52 Supporting Independent Filmmakers28:52 Challenges and Trends in Filmmaking30:15 Connecting with Audiences32:46 Mometu's Social Media Strategy34:25 The More For Me and You Podcast37:31 Exploring Mometu Film Library38:45 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Creating a $10,000 Short Film: A Truly Independent JourneyDoes an iPhone have what it takes to shoot a professional film?In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss their recent project, a short film funded with a $10,000 budget, filmed using iPhones. They delve into the inspiration behind the project, their approach to working with a minimal budget, and the logistics of shooting 16 pages in a single day. The discussion covers the importance of maintaining a student mentality, the value of creative problem-solving, and the benefits and challenges of using unconventional filmmaking techniques. They also address the broader implications of working with limited finances and how it impacts future projects and industry standards. The episode concludes with insights into the collaborative process, the importance of relationship-building, and encouraging audience feedback on maximizing a $10,000 budget for short films.00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent00:27 Catching Up After the Holiday01:15 Exciting New Project Announcement01:33 The $10K iPhone Short Film Challenge01:57 The Creative Process and Experimentation10:49 Building the Team and Production Details19:34 Lessons Learned and Future Implications27:16 Client's Marketing Strategy for Short Films27:40 The Evolution of Production Value28:52 Practical Tips for Independent Filmmakers29:43 Prepping for a Successful Shoot32:17 Challenges and Solutions on Set38:27 Balancing Budget and Quality46:22 The Future of Low-Budget Filmmaking50:14 Final Thoughts and Takeaways