The Pros and Cons of the Independent Film Venture

Sitting in the shadows of every major production is an independent film producer searching for their big break. Although some independent directors never see their film on the big screen, there are a lot of advantages when going independent. Here are the pros:

1. You call the shots.
2. Your film belongs to you.
3. You retain most of the profits unless you partner with someone to market your film once it's done etcetera.
4. You get hands on experience with your cast. (Most independent producers train their cast themselves.)
5. Most of the films budget belongs to you, so you don't owe anyone after the film is produced.
6. All you have to do is finish the production and if a major production company picks the film up, then you have the upper hand in contract deals.
7. There is usually less legal work to deal with in the independent film market although paperwork is still required.
8. The cast and crew you work with usually becomes your second family. (There's even situations when a cast or crew member from your film gets a spot on the big stage and may increase the value of your product.)

Here are the cons:

1. You're on a budget so you often have to roll with the punches.
2. You have to deal with actors who may not take your project seriously, but this even happens on the big stage so don't worry.
3. You have to find an audience and you often have to start from the bottom while earning your way up to the top.
4. You have to shop your film to local stores just to get it on the shelf.
5. You often have to edit your own work with a tight budget and little time unless you have good friends who will help-out.
6. If you cannot afford union fees or big time actors then you have to work with who ever shows up.
7. Your equipment has to fit your budget.
8. You have to find good people who will stick with you through the ups and the downs.