Cut To The Deal: The Business of Film

Cine Circle
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Welcome to the ultimate podcast for indie filmmakers who want to learn the business side of the industry. In each episode we’ll cut straight to actionable advice and dive deep into the business side of the film industry, unpacking everything you need to know about film funding, distribution strategies, and career development. Whether you're just starting out or looking to transform your hobby into a thriving career, we provide proven, detailed techniques, and real-world advice to help you succeed.

  1. Distributing and Monetising Your First Feature Film with Terry Winnan

    3D AGO

    Distributing and Monetising Your First Feature Film with Terry Winnan

    In this conversation, Terry Winnan shares his unique journey from engineering to filmmaking, detailing how he transitioned into the film industry while still managing his engineering business. He discusses the challenges of funding and producing his feature film, which was developed from three short films, and the strategies he employed for distribution and marketing. Terry emphasizes the importance of understanding audience expectations and the impact of social media on film promotion. He also reflects on the lessons learned from viewer feedback and his plans for future projects. Takeaways Terry transitioned from engineering to filmmaking due to a passion for creative writing and video editing. His feature film was funded by his engineering company, allowing him creative freedom. Managing a film project is similar to running a business, which helped him navigate the filmmaking process. The feature film was developed from three short films, creating a cohesive anthology. Terry chose to bypass film festivals for his second and third films to expedite the release. He opted for IndieRights as a distributor due to their favorable terms and support. Quality control is crucial for film submission; proper file naming and formats are essential. A strong marketing strategy, including a well-designed poster, can significantly impact viewer engagement. Social media plays a vital role in promoting films; consistency in posting is key. Viewer expectations can greatly influence reviews; positive feedback often comes from unexpected sources. Watch Terry Winnan's Film: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36914087/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking Journey 02:51 Transitioning from Engineering to Filmmaking 05:51 Funding and Producing the Feature Film 09:04 Creating a Film Anthology 12:02 Distribution Strategies and Film Festivals 15:13 Choosing the Right Distributor 18:01 Film Release Timeline and Quality Control 20:55 Marketing and Poster Design 23:56 Social Media Strategy and Engagement 27:05 Understanding Viewer Expectations and Reviews 29:58 Future Plans and Lessons Learned Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1h 2m
  2. Effective PR Strategies For Filmmaker with Heather Atherton

    JAN 20

    Effective PR Strategies For Filmmaker with Heather Atherton

    PR is one of the biggest levers indie filmmakers have to actually make money from their films – but most treat it as an afterthought. In this episode of Cut to the Deal, I sit down with veteran publicist Heather Atherton to break down exactly how to use PR, festivals, and creative stunts to get real exposure for your film (without a studio-sized budget). We talk about when it does make sense to hire a PR pro vs DIY, how to think about your audience from the script stage, how to attach your film to causes and current events in a way that journalists care about, and the kind of assets you should be capturing on set long before release. Heather also shares some brilliant campaign examples – from building a movement around a film on homelessness to creative festival stunts that cost almost nothing but generate headlines and word-of-mouth for years. In this episode, you’ll learn: PR vs DIY – When it’s smarter to bring in a PR consultant vs handling outreach yourself What PR actually does – Strategy, contacts, credibility, and why earned media still matters Building a movement early – How the film No Address used nonprofits and a cause-based campaign to attract 1,500-plus partners and distributor interest Niche instead of everyone who likes good films – Why you must define a specific audience, not anyone who likes movies Headlines without big names – How to find a story, angle, or cause that makes your film newsworthy even without stars Creative stunt marketing – Real examples (flash mobs at Sundance, festival-stage stunts, clever offline moments designed to go viral online) Timing your release – Aligning films with events (Olympics, Halloween, real-world news) so the market actually cares when you launch Theatrical traps and opportunities – When a limited cinema run helps PR… and when it just burns your budget About Heather Atherton Heather Atherton is a PR and media relations veteran with around 30 years’ experience. She spent over a decade working with an IMAX Corporation–owned theatre, helping re-launch Hollywood films in the IMAX format, and has spent the last decade working closely with indie filmmakers on festival, theatrical, and streaming releases. She served on the board of the Cordillera International Film Festival for seven years and has led campaigns for projects like No Address, using PR to build movements around cause-driven films from script through distribution. Connect with Heather: Website: athertonpr.com Instagram: @athertonpr 00:00 - Introduction to PR in Filmmaking 04:04 - The Value of Hiring a PR Consultant 10:13 - Case Study: No Address Film Strategy 13:48 - Identifying Your Audience 20:43 - The Importance of Local Media 25:54 - Building Relationships with Journalists 29:12 - Creative Marketing Strategies for Indie Films 32:43 - Creative Marketing Strategies 35:12 - Leveraging Cause-Related Messaging 38:37 - Making Films Marketable from the Start 43:09 - The Importance of Timing in Film Releases 44:43 - Common Mistakes Filmmakers Make 49:05 - Effective Press Outreach Techniques 59:31 - Utilizing TV for Film Promotion Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1h 3m
  3. Will AI Replace Filmmakers? An Honest Conversation with Simon David Miller

    12/18/2025

    Will AI Replace Filmmakers? An Honest Conversation with Simon David Miller

    In this episode ZB Siwek sits down with Film Creator, VC Partner, and New Forest founder Simon David Miller to explore one of the most important questions facing filmmakers today: How will AI reshape the film industry and what does that mean for creators, jobs, ethics, and storytelling? Simon shares his unique perspective from a career spanning investment banking, music, startups, and film, including his work at EMI, Abbey Road, and now New Forest an AI-driven film company focused on human-led storytelling. This is a deep, honest conversation about: How AI can radically reduce film production costs Why human authorship still matters (artistically, ethically, and commercially) The real job risks facing filmmakers—and how to future-proof your career AI audience simulation and testing content before release The collision between traditional film, AI filmmaking, and the creator economy Hyper-personalised content, truth, and the risk of infinite media Whether AI filmmaking is “lazy” or actually harder than traditional production Hybrid filmmaking: combining real actors with AI to cut costs Why distribution power is shifting to YouTube, TikTok, and direct audiences What skills filmmakers should be learning right now to stay relevant Simon also breaks down practical AI workflows filmmakers can experiment with today covering writing, visuals, animation, VFX, and distribution—while stressing the importance of authenticity, responsibility, and audience connection. If you’re a filmmaker worried about the future, curious about AI, or trying to build sustainable, profitable projects in a changing industry, this episode is essential listening Learn more about Simon David Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simondavidmiller/ New Forest Film: http://www.newforestfilm.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AI in Filmmaking 03:17 The Role of AI in Film Production 05:54 Audience Simulation Technology 08:57 Job Security in the Age of AI 12:47 The Human Element in AI-Driven Content 13:51 AI as a Creative Tool 18:06 The Future of Human-Led Content 20:44 The Impact of AI Influencers 23:35 The Need for Regulation in AI 26:17 Hyper-Personalization and Truth in Content 29:57 The Future of Content Creation 36:55 The Desire for Authenticity in Content Creation 38:51 Wants vs. Needs: The Essence of Storytelling 42:00 Ethics in Storytelling and AI 48:16 Environmental Impact of AI in Filmmaking 55:22 Practical AI Tools for Filmmakers 01:00:51 Hybrid Filmmaking: Blending AI and Real Actors 01:07:06 Building a Personal Brand in the New Era Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1h 16m
  4. Unlocking Film Marketing Success with Rosa Camero

    11/13/2025

    Unlocking Film Marketing Success with Rosa Camero

    In this conversation, Rosa Camero shares her extensive experience in film marketing, discussing the importance of effective marketing strategies for independent filmmakers. She emphasizes the need for filmmakers to start thinking about their audience early in the film development process and to create a solid marketing plan with clear goals. Rosa also highlights the significance of building an audience, utilizing AI tools for content creation, and the value of cinema releases versus streaming platforms. The discussion concludes with insights into promoting films post-release and the introduction of her AI tool, Ramiro AI, designed to assist filmmakers in their marketing efforts. Learn more about Rosa Camero and Ramiro AI: ramiro.ai www.rosacamero.com Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    50 min
  5. New Distribution Strategy with Christie Marchese

    10/16/2025

    New Distribution Strategy with Christie Marchese

    🎬 How Indie Filmmakers Can Profit Through Screenings What if you could make real money from your film without relying on streamers that pay pennies per view? In this episode, ZB Siwek (Cine Circle) sits down with Christie Marchese, founder & CEO of Kinema, to explore a revolutionary new way for filmmakers to distribute and monetize their work through hosted screenings, virtual events, and direct audience relationships. We dive deep into: 🔥 How Kinema helps filmmakers license their films to screening hosts (schools, bars, nonprofits & more) 💰 Why social impact documentaries and niche films perform best and how others can still succeed 🎟️ How filmmakers can find and pitch potential hosts for their films 📊 Real case studies of films that earned $200K+ through Kinema 🚀 How the future of indie film is merging with the creator economy 🎯 Why every filmmaker needs a marketing & distribution budget from day one Whether you’re a documentary filmmaker or producing a micro-budget horror feature, this episode will change the way you think about distribution and show you how to build a profitable, sustainable career releasing films on your own terms. 🔗 Learn more about Kinema: https://www.kinema.com 📧 Contact: films@kinema.com Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1 hr

  6. 09/12/2025

    How to Use Equity Crowdfunding to Fund Profitable Indie Films with Greg Bekkers

    In this episode, ZB Siwek sits down with producer and sales agent Greg Bekkers to dive deep into the world of equity crowdfunding for films. Greg shares his hands-on experience running multiple successful campaigns—raising over $200K on platforms like Wefunder and breaks down exactly what it takes for independent filmmakers to stand out, attract investors, and actually close deals. We cover: Greg’s journey from managing actors to producing and film sales The genres and strategies distributors are backing right now (and which ones they’re avoiding)How equity crowdfunding really works - legal steps, platforms, timelines, and investor expectationsThe importance of lead investors and how to leverage them for trust and momentumOutreach strategies: LinkedIn, cold emails, Zoom calls, and the art of building relationshipsWhy filmmakers need to embrace marketing as part of the creative processGreg’s honest take on mistakes, lessons learned, and why perseverance + community are essentialWhether you’re planning your first raise or looking to improve your next campaign, this conversation gives you practical, battle-tested insights to make your film fundable and profitable. Greg Bekkers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregbekkers/ 📌 Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Filmmaking and Funding Strategies 05:32 – The Importance of Sales and in Filmmaking 15:47 – Navigating the Landscape of Film Genres and Market Trends 21:58 – Setting Up an Equity Crowdfunding Campaign 35:55 – Lessons Learned from Crowdfunding Campaigns 42:17 – Building Your Brand in Filmmaking 48:28 – Effective Messaging for Investor Outreach 57:20 – Understanding Investor Calls 01:01:15 – The Role of Lead Investors 01:06:02 – Marketing Strategies for Fundraising 01:10:14 – The Importance of Pre-Campaign Outreach 01:17:17 – Navigating the Crowdfunding Landscape 🎧 Subscribe to Cut to the Deal for more conversations with top industry experts on funding, distributing, and marketing independent films. Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1h 24m
  7. Produce a Profitable Film with Daren Smith

    09/04/2025

    Produce a Profitable Film with Daren Smith

    In this episode of Cut to the Deal, ZB Siwek speaks with Daren Smith (indie film producer and founder of Craftsman Films) about how filmmakers can create profitable, sustainable careers in today’s industry. Daren shares insights from his book Blockbuster and his experience producing indie films, running a production company, and now building a $10M film fund. The conversation dives into the mindset, strategies, and systems filmmakers need if they want to move beyond passion projects and into long-term, profitable filmmaking. What You’ll Learn: Why most indie films fail financially—and how to flip the odds The shift from creative mindset to business mindset Subscription cycling & how audiences really consume content How to define success (profit vs. impact vs. portfolio building) The Domino Principle for career momentum Demand-side vs supply-side selling for filmmakers Why short films can stall your career if used incorrectly How to align with investors and audiences who overvalue what you do Building irresistible offers for both investors and fans Creating systems & flywheels to grow visibility without burnout Realistic expectations around distribution, box office, and profitability How to build your brand as a filmmaker and expand your impact 🎬 About Daren Smith Daren is an indie film producer, founder of Craftsman Films, and author of Blockbuster. His mission is to build a resilient, profitable ecosystem for independent filmmakers, starting with his own $10M film fund.  Learn more at craftsmanfilms.co 🎙️ About Cut to the Deal Hosted by ZB Siwek, Cut to the Deal explores the business side of filmmaking from funding and financing to marketing and distribution. Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1h 24m
  8. How Filmmakers Can Build a Sustainable Career with Emily Best (Seed&Spark)

    08/06/2025

    How Filmmakers Can Build a Sustainable Career with Emily Best (Seed&Spark)

    In this episode, I sit down with Emily Best, founder & CEO of Seed&Spark, filmmaker, and fierce advocate for creator sustainability, to ask the BIG question: 👉 Why can't most filmmakers consistently fund, distribute, and profit from their films? We dive deep into: The harsh realities of building a sustainable filmmaking careerWhy most indie films aren’t actually commercial (and why that’s okay)The key mindset shift most filmmakers need to makeHow to find and build an audience that will support your workReal examples of crowdfunding rewards that went viralThe future of distribution and how to retain creative and financial controlA brutally honest take on equity crowdfunding (and when you should avoid it)How to approach AI in filmmaking ethically and strategically Timestamps: 00:00 - The Challenge of Sustainable Filmmaking 02:05 - Understanding Funding Issues in Filmmaking 10:23 - Identifying and Engaging Your Audience 14:09 - Balancing Creativity and Commercial Success 18:02 - The Role of Crowdfunding in Filmmaking 19:32 - Innovative Crowdfunding Strategies and Rewards 33:44 - Innovative Crowdfunding Strategies 38:06 - Building Community and Audience Engagement 41:28 - The Pursuit of Excellence in Filmmaking 42:31 - Navigating Distribution Challenges 49:52 - Understanding Equity Crowdfunding 54:16 - The Impact of AI on Filmmaking Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or an experienced producer, this episode is packed with practical insights, hard truths, and thoughtful inspiration for anyone serious about thriving in the film industry. 🔗 Mentioned Resources: https://seedandspark.com/ https://distributionplaybook.com/ https://www.seedandspark.com/crowdfunding Connect with ZB Siwek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zb-siwek-55938442/ Learn More About Cine Circle: https://www.cinecircle.co.uk/ Explore our live in person and virtual events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/cine-circle-uk-17697994790 Follow us on social! https://www.youtube.com/@CineCircleFilms/videos https://www.tiktok.com/@cinecircle https://instagram.com/cinecircleuk https://x.com/cinecircle_uk

    1h 8m
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About

Welcome to the ultimate podcast for indie filmmakers who want to learn the business side of the industry. In each episode we’ll cut straight to actionable advice and dive deep into the business side of the film industry, unpacking everything you need to know about film funding, distribution strategies, and career development. Whether you're just starting out or looking to transform your hobby into a thriving career, we provide proven, detailed techniques, and real-world advice to help you succeed.

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