The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

Filmmaking Stuff
  • 4.4 (54)
  • TV & FILM
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Filmmaking Stuff provides tactics for film producing, film funding, and film distribution.

  1. 3D AGO

    Most Producers Only Pay $1 for a Script (Here’s Why)

    What is an option agreement and how do indie producers legally control a screenplay without buying it upfront? In this episode, Tom breaks down film option agreements, $1 options, term lengths, writer payments, and how rights revert if a movie doesn’t get made. A practical, no-nonsense guide for producers and screenwriters navigating indie film development and financing.

    3 min

  2. JAN 29

    EFM Berlin: Where Serious Filmmakers Make Real Deals

    Thinking about attending the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin? In this episode, I break down how EFM compares to Cannes and AFM, why it’s considered the most professional film market, and why filmmakers with finished projects and real credits get the most value from it. If you want smarter film distribution and market strategy, this one’s for you.

    3 min

  3. JAN 27

    Rethinking Film Distribution Windows

    Film distribution windowing is changing fast. In this episode, Tom Malloy breaks down modern release windows — theatrical, transactional VOD, subscription streaming, and AVOD — and explains why the old rules don’t always apply anymore. Using real-world examples like Netflix films returning to theaters and the rise of ad-supported platforms, he shares one key lesson for indie filmmakers: focus on demand first, and the windows will follow. A practical, no-nonsense guide to smarter film release strategy.

    4 min

  4. JAN 20

    What Makes a Film Marketable?

    What makes a film marketable in today’s crowded film marketplace? In this episode, we break down the real factors that determine whether a movie sells — from cast and genre to niche audiences, timing, and cultural trends. Learn why trying to appeal to everyone often backfires, how targeting a specific audience can dramatically improve your film’s chances, and why even successful movies are sometimes just lightning in a bottle. A must-listen for independent filmmakers looking to package smarter and market better.

    3 min

  5. JAN 15

    The Right Way to Talk About ROI in Film Financing

    Understanding ROI is critical when pitching film investors—but most filmmakers either oversell it or avoid it completely. In this episode, Tom Malloy breaks down film ROI using simple math, a $1M example, and real investor expectations. You’ll learn how to present hypothetical returns in a realistic 30–70% range, why projections can hurt your pitch, and how to explain an investor waterfall without overpromising. Perfect for filmmakers raising money, building business plans, or pitching private equity for independent films.

    4 min

  6. JAN 13

    Understanding Film Rights Before You Sign a Distribution Deal

    Film rights can make or break your movie’s financial future — and most filmmakers don’t fully understand them. In this episode, we break down domestic vs. international rights, worldwide deals, split rights, and platform-specific licenses like TVOD, SVOD, AVOD, FAST, and theatrical. If you’re working with distributors, sales agents, or heading to a film market, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your film.

    3 min

  7. JAN 8

    Putting 2025 Behind Us: Why 2026 Can Be a Turning Point for Film

    2025 was rough for a lot of filmmakers—but it’s over. In this episode, Tom Malloy talks about how mindset, language, and belief directly impact the film business, from investor confidence to job creation. Learn why speaking positively about 2026 isn’t fluff, how optimism becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, and what filmmakers can do right now to help shift momentum back toward production, distribution, and growth.

    3 min

  8. JAN 5

    Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail—and How to Set Real Goals Instead

    Most New Year’s resolutions fail — and that’s not an accident. In this episode, Tom Malloy explains why resolutions don’t work, how setting 10–15 realistic annual goals changes your mindset, and why believing you can hit a goal is the real key to success. A practical, no-nonsense approach to making 2026 a year of real progress.

    5 min
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4.4
out of 5
54 Ratings

About

Filmmaking Stuff provides tactics for film producing, film funding, and film distribution.

Information

  • Creator
    Filmmaking Stuff
  • Years Active
    2010 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © 2025 Brubaker Unlimited LLC. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

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