From all facets of a traditional raise to soft money to crowdfunding strategies, this is the place to discuss, share content and offer tips and advice regarding raising funds for a project.
It was fun being interviewed by the Palm Springs Screenplay Awards for being a finalist. They didn't ask me anything about financing, but I did get to discuss my festival "strategy," if you can call it that.
Read on...
https://www.palmspringsscreenplayawards.com/mike-fitzer-interview.html#/...
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The new The Super Mario Galaxy Movie just pulled in $16.8M on a Monday, the biggest Monday of the year so far, bringing its total to over $207M in just six days.
That’s not just a strong opening… that’s su...
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Good breakdown, however, I would suggest Sinners was technically "original" but it had Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan attached, which functioned as its own form of pre-sold IP in the eyes of inves...
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Both can work...but the bar is very different.
IP is about predictability....pre-awareness, global marketing efficiency, downside protection. Originals are about URGENCY (I think!) ...a concept so cle...
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In today’s global production landscape, understanding tax incentives isn’t optional—it’s essential. You’re operating in an increasingly competitive market where financing is harder to secure and margins are tighter than ever. You might think tax incentives are too complicated, too technical, or only...
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One of the most difficult things to grasp in film production is the complexity of film financing. The ins and outs of handling this important area vary from project to project and, of course, studio and independent films operate within completely different models.
This 6-week exclusive Stage 32 lab...
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Film tax credits are critical for any film finance plan and television financing plans as well. The mistakes jurisdictions have made in the past center on not being reliable.
Capital and investors require certainty that a program will be there in the future. As stated in the article attached: ‘certa...
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Most creators think a finishing‑funding ask is about convincing an investor to “help them complete the film.”
Upstream, that’s not what’s happening at all.
A finishing‑funding ask is a capital‑protection structure, not a persuasion exercise.
The moment you mix in festival strategy, marketing, or futur...
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We're releasing our store add-on in the next couple of weeks and looking for the right financial partner to join us at the ground floor.
Here's where we stand today:
- 30K monthly visitors with zero ad spend
- 71 films licensed for distribution
- Underground filmmakers already onboarded and ready to sel...
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I've been a member of Stage32 almost since its inception, and although I wasn't active on it for many years, I have enjoyed watching it grow as a safe space for seasoned pros and aspiring filmmakers to connect.
This is a safe space, but it is also one for honesty and transparency, so to anyone just...
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Also I think it's great for creatives to be aware of all the different elements that go into building a career. It's not just about writing a script (which is the best it can possibly be). It's also a...
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Totally agree with all of this; some really great feedback here. I often tell new screenwriters/producers/directors that actually MAKING ANYTHING is a win. The process of creating and then putting tha...
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Great advice Michael Fitzer, Mfa. Get your feet wet, just shoot a project to get the feel for it. Definitely direct a short if you haven't.
This is so true, Michael Fitzer, Mfa -- I liken it to learning how to swim, or learning martial arts. Embrace the beginner mind and don't try to fly before you can walk. Because nothing destroys your...
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It's not just right sizing your project but also your expectations. Not every at bat needs to be a home run. Take pride in the single and work to push runs across the plate.
The economy is not hurting for capital. But it's not flowing into independent film because we're selling the wrong things.
(https://www.indiewire.com/features/commentary/film-financing-supply-side...) Expand post
It's so true that VCs want to know you have a plan for them to make money on their investment - otherwise it's not an investment, it's crowdfunding. If you have a plan for how they can see a return on their money, it puts you light years ahead of most filmmakers/
I’m not very interested in creating a YouTube channel and uploading my films there. Honestly, I don’t have the time or the right conditions for that. I prefer to focus on my work as a director.
Do you have any suggestions on how I can sell or license my films to platforms so they can be streamed? Is...
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Great question this is exactly where strategy makes all the difference.
Getting your films onto streaming platforms typically involves either going through aggregators, film festivals for exposure, or...
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Thank you very much for your helpful insights — they are truly excellent. I understand your points very well. As you mentioned, creating a strong logline and preparing a proper propo...
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Find a sales agent, who can sell your content. You need a good poster and trailer and a solid film. Even then, there is no guarantee you'll make $$. Festivals are great to build relationships. In the...
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@muhammadabedbaryal Good question. There are numerous tutorials, courses, blogs, and further information available on Stage 32 with answers to your questions. Head to the Education section as a starte...
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Good to know Amanda Toney. Thank you! Come on Wisconsin!
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