394 - Aaron Irons & Josh Croft on Making 'Jeffrey’s Hell,' the Unique World of the Defy Film Festival, Appalachian Horror, Mastering Found Footage, How Tubi is Empowering Independent Filmmakers, The Art of Low-Budget Filmmaking, The Keys to Sustainabl

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmakers Aaron Irons and Josh Croft about their experiences at the Defy Film Festival, their independent horror films "Chest" and "Jeffrey's Hell," and their overall approach to low-budget, authentic filmmaking. The conversation covers the importance of community, resourcefulness, and staying true to one's creative vision in the independent film industry. The hosts and guests also discuss the horror genre, the challenges of marketing films, and the value of streaming platforms for indie filmmakers.

Enjoy!

The show notes include the following:

Introduction and Music Discussion

Chris Barkley introduces the podcast and guests Aaron Irons and Josh Croft, along with co-host Nick Buggs and discussion of the concept of "sophomore slump" in music.

Defy Film Festival and Chest Movie

• Aaron Irons and Josh Croft discuss the significance of Defy Film Festival and their experience with the premiere of their film "Chest."
• Chris clarifies a previous misunderstanding about the availability of an audio-only episode with Gail Ann Hurd on YouTube.

Defy Festival Highlights and Jeffrey's Hell

• Josh Croft provides details about the Defy festival and the unique experience of attending.
• Aaron Irons talks about the sequel to "Chest," titled "Jeffrey's Hell," and its unconventional production process.

Found Footage Genre and Streaming Platforms

• Discussion of the found footage genre, its popularity, and the financial realities of filmmaking.
• Insights into the found footage community and the importance of streaming platforms like Tubi for independent filmmakers.

Filmmaking Philosophies and Future Plans

• Aaron Irons and Josh Croft talk about their approach to filmmaking, emphasizing resourcefulness and practicality.
• They express a preference for maintaining creative control and not being beholden to external funding.

Polls and Audience Engagement

• Intern Sam introduces polls about the best horror director and the best Tim Burton movie.
• The conversation includes a discussion about the significance of these directors and their contributions to the horror genre.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

• Reflections on the poll results and the importance of community support and resourcefulness in filmmaking.
• Guests express gratitude for the support and excitement for their upcoming projects.

Here is a bulleted list of the products, software, websites, and other items mentioned in the conversation:

- Tubi

- Stash Chills and Thrills (YouTube channel)

- Letterboxd

- Full Moon Cineplex (Hermitage, TN)

- Defy Film Festival

- Chest (film)

- Jeffrey's Hell (film)

- Hey, I Made This for You (film)

- Bonsai.film

- Cotton Bureau

- Indie Insights newsletter

- Chris' X Page (social media platform)

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