Marcus Mizelle | A Life in Micro-Budget Features
Today on Filmmaker Freedom, a super in-depth interview with Marcus Mizelle.
Marcus is a multi-talented filmmaker with three micro-budget features under his belt, and that's alongside a prolific career directing music videos, working in the grip department, and being a writer/producer.
And pretty soon, he's launching an entirely new kind of film festival dedicated specifically for us micro-budget folks. It's called the Micro Film Tournament, and it looks pretty rad.
Anyhow, this conversation was a blast, and we touch on so many aspects of what it really takes to succeed in this brutal business.
Hope you dig it :)
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The topics we touch on in this episode
Why Marcus wishes he'd studied more film theory in college (instead of production)
What he learned working with world-renowned DP Bradford Young
How Marcus moved to LA and immediately started getting directing work, even though he didn't know anyone.
The financial reality behind even the best indie film distribution deals.
Our thoughts on the crumbling infrastructure around DIY distribution (ie. Tugg and Distribber)
Marcus's thoughts on raising money for micro-budget films.
Is auteur theory bullshit?
Running test screenings for your films even if you don't have the budget of a studio.
How Marcus is rethinking the format of film festivals in order to celebrate micro budget films.
If you’re truly invested in putting these ideas to use, I’d recommend joining Freedom Fighters, my private community for entrepreneurial indie filmmakers.
It’s not another spammy facebook group or noisy forum. It’s an online oasis just for people like us. A place of sanity and respect, where we try our best to support one another in our respective journeys.
So if you’re interested in becoming a member, here’s where you can get the full scoop and apply (don’t worry, it’s totally free).
Hoping to see you inside.
-Rob Hardy
