Hi Stage 32 Creatives,
My name is Al Carretta and I am an indie film producer from Medway, Kent in the UK. I also run the Nightpiece Film Festival in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (now in its 12th year) where we've now screened over 370+ shorts ilms from directors across the World.! Since 2010, I've written, produced and directed 24 independent feature films working on the basis of total spend. 3 of these films have completely made their money back - which is practically unheard of for films with zero marketing spend. I champion independent film & my fellow filmmakers but the film landscape has got really tough of late. I have at least 3 scripts ready to go but money is tight. I always premiere a film in EdFringe in August so watch this space to see what I flip as my 25th feature; all I know is I'm on countdown to turn something around....on nothing but even more restricted than usual.
keep filming!
Al Carretta
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Hi, Al Carretta. Hope you're doing great! Congratulations on your three films completely making their money back! And with zero marketing spend. That's really impressive! What's your go-to for marketing your films? Social media?
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Wow, you are prolific Al! 24 feature films is extraordinary. Any advice you can give the community who might be starting out on making their first feature film?
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Have a produceable, saleable concept, work to a release deadline, identify waste, be efficient, don't involve unnecessary cast or crew, assert creative control, be prepared to lead, do the extra jobs other people won't immediately do, ignore criticism, take responsibility, ensure you finish the project! That's how I've got 24 films done this past decade or so!
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Hi Al Carretta I’m a writer and actor who lived the body of three miraculous novels (including bonds with GB) which may be on the way to slip into this streaming wonder!! Would be great to connect!!!
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Hey Al Carretta! Thanks so much for reintroducing yourself, it's always great to see you pop back into the community. If you're ever interested in contributing a new blog post, let me know! The community always loves hearing your insights, especially given your deep experience in indie film and your unique model of micro-budget filmmaking.
Also, I’d encourage you to post more often in the Producing and Filmmaking Lounges. Your tips, thoughts on the current indie landscape, and any advice or resources would be incredibly valuable to our creatives navigating similar challenges. Wishing you all the best as you gear up for feature #25! Keep us posted!
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Al Carretta lean and mean….i love it! great advice!