Years ago, we can remember watching major films such as “Casablanca”, “Gone with the Wind”, “The Godfather” (I, II, & III), “Miracle on 34th Street”, “Superman”, “The Wizard of Oz”, “Star Wars”, “Rocky”, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”, “Transformers”, and “Die Hard” to name a few. Yes, there are many more (to numerous to name for sure); but we know you get the idea. In addition, major films presented wonderful opportunities for major actors like Al Pacino, Jane Fonda, Shia Lebouf , Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, Sidney Poitier, Judy Garland, etc. However, the indie film scene is presented with much more difficult, but not impossible, tasks to overcome. Issues such as lower budgets, lack of financial support or investors, etc. In a recent blog by Truly Free Film, the blogger discusses what he feels are the three biggest problems in the indie film business. He lists problems such as: mindset, infrastructure, and content. The blogger also discusses how to make better films, as well as taking a look at various issues and actions to resolve them. See his blog at:
In yet another blog by the Rain Dance Film Festival, Elliott Grove discusses seven challenges that the indie film industry faces. He identifies these challenges as:
- Digital revolution producing more product than buyers
- Online distribution commonplace
- Storytelling techniques, ideas and creativity
- Difference in cinema distribution
- Public Funding (budget cuts)
- Lack of Development Funding (here this presents weak story lines)
- Social media
Elliott’s blog may be viewed at: http://www.raindance.org/7-challenges-facing-independent-filmmakers/
Today, there are numerous opportunities for indie film makers and indie music artists whose songs are being featured in many indie films. Although there are still many challenges, we believe that the indie film and music industry is on the brink of a new culture. Even though there is great access to the Internet, yet promotion and finance are very crucial to indie film makers. Take a look at the Rain Dance Film Festival acknowledgment and discussion of an indie film called “The Machine”.
Here’s some food for thought: What type of challenges confront African-American and other minority indie film makers? Please feel free to comment.
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