Hello everyone. I finished writing my first script that will include some animation and Live-Action elements in it. It’s a short film no longer than 30 Minutes. My Goal is to turn this Short Project into a SAG film. This would be my first official project with my LLC. I was wondering if I can get some advice on how to properly fund this. I never done CrowdFunding before nor have I raised money for anything of this scale. I do have a Treatment plan that maps out how long each scene would be including the animation portions of the film. Also, I am not sure how much to budget, or where to find out information on approximating estimates of cost. Any and All Assistance would be beneficial. Thank you in Advanced!
Financing / Crowdfunding : Seeking Funding Advice by Remy Petrash
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How much are you trying to raise?
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Stephen Folker Given the nature of the film project. I would say somewhere between 15k to 20k at first glance. Enough to hire visual artists, animators, for the 2D component of the film. Although, This budget may flux way below those estimates given that I will most likely be using iPhone 14 for camera equipment, and I already have one of the actors in mind for the project. I am unclear of SAG rules at this time on whether costs of the short film project are supposed to meet certain cost criteria. Just estimating though, I don't have a strong reference to use in budgeting. I can possibly get away with 8k at very minimum.
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If you're a first time crowdfunder, I'd suggest keeping your goals realistic. 5-10k max is attainable. Also, you'll need to break down what everything cost so you're backers know. Example is your visual effects going to be 10k or 'we need 3 gunshot effects, which cost 200 each. A good pitch and pitch video is key! Be prepared to put some of your own money in. And make a list of everyone you know that might back your film.
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Congratulations on finishing your first script, Remy Petrash!
There's some advice on these posts that might help you with your crowdfunding campaign:
www.stage32.com/lounge/fundraising/Any-Tips-for-Crowdfunding
www.stage32.com/lounge/fundraising/Would-love-advice-for-crowdfunding-ca...
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If you’re unsure how to do a budget AND you’re thinking about going SAG, you might be biting off more than you can chew.
Go with a smaller short first (under 10 minutes). Get some friends to help for free. Just be sure to spend money on meals to keep them happy. Make it clear this is a learning experience and meant to be fun.
Make a list of everything you’ll need for the shoot. Props, locations, equipment, lights, software. food. Price it out. Add 10% for contingency. That’s your budget.
Edit the film yourself. That’s how you really learn what you need to make a scene work, and how to shoot it better next time.
Get through the whole process on a no-budget project, then start over with your 30 min short (or cut that down… film festivals don’t want shorts that long).
Contact SAG and find out what their rules are. Then cry a bit and consider— do I really need SAG actors?
What is the reason you’re making a short? Director calling card? Education? Fame and fortune? Be reasonable in your expectations, because it’s unlikely you’ll make your money back.
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By the way, here’s a free budget template from Studiobinder.
https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/downloads/film-budget-template/
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Remy Petrash, If you're looking for solid advice on crowdsourcing and crowdfunding for indie films, you should definitely check out Stage 32 CEO RB's book—Crowdsourcing For Filmmakers: Indie Film & the Power of the Crowd. RB interviewed hundreds of filmmakers to break down how to effectively engage your audience, build community, and leverage the power of the crowd to get your project made.
It's packed with insights and real-world strategies that are invaluable for indie filmmakers. Highly recommend!
You can check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Crowdsourcing-Filmmakers-American-Market-Presents...
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Hi Remy,
Congrats on finishing your first script! That’s a huge milestone, and it’s exciting to hear about your vision for blending animation and live-action. Turning it into a SAG film and making it your first official project under your LLC is an ambitious and awesome goal!
I’m on the Stage 32 Education Team, and I’d be happy to recommend resources to help you navigate crowdfunding, budgeting, and funding strategies. I am linking some below for you! If you ever want guidance or recommendations, feel free to email me at edu@stage32.com—I’d love to help!
Wishing you all the best on this journey, and I can’t wait to see your project come to life!
Webinar recs:
How to Find Investors and Secure Financing for your Feature Film- With a Mock Investor's Closing Call: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/how-to-find-investors-and-sec...
Finance Your Independent Film & Break Even Before Its Release
Taught by Jason Mirch: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/finance-your-independent-film...
Maximize Your Film Funding: International Co-Productions 101
Taught by Emma Louise Smith: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/unlock-the-secrets-to-financi...
How to Find, Approach & Close Investors For Your Film
Taught by Tom Malloy: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/how-to-find-approach-close-in...